Today was our shortest day in Yellowstone so far. But it was spectacular.
Last night, we rolled back into our campsite after 11:00pm Mountain Time. Because of our late night, we decided to get a later start today, and to do a hike in the Lamar Valley. That was music to our (retired) ears!
Wes and Erin suggested we hike the Lamar Valley Trail hike, a 7.1 mile out-and-back which would take us far away from the road and deeper into the Lamar Valley. The small parking lot at the trailhead was full when we arrived, so we had to park 0.1 miles down the road at the next turnout. When you’re hiking 7 miles, who cares about a little more?
The entire hike was amazing! Most if it wound through active bison grazing grounds, evidenced by the hoofprints and piles of dung. Some of it was still fairly fresh. Wes tested this theory by stepping in a pile that was clearly laid down VERY recently. He was mocked for this for at least several hundred feet.
After just over 3.5 miles, the trail descends steeply downward toward a stream. Being conscientious adults, we decided to eschew the remainder of the hike and have a snack before returning. That was until Wes and I decided to brave the very steep descent and head for the water.
Now, for those who do not know, Yellowstone (as well as many parks in this region) are known for bear activity. It’s one of the big draws for travelers. In fact, by the end of today, we already spotted 16 bear. Hikers are encouraged to carry bear spray on every hike.
I mention this because, as Wes and I descended to the river, I realized that we both were carrying the bear spray. This meant that Erin and Karen were left alone, above a steep hill, with no bear protection. Not the smartest move! Nothing happened, and we completed our hike and returned to our campsite without incident.
In the evening, Erin and Wes make a lovely pasta Bolognese which we enjoyed from the picnic table next to Bertha. Afterwards, we all walked to the camp store for some amazing, local, ice cream. We finished this on the deck of their RV, and then decided to turn in for the night.
This is our last night at Yellowstone’s Edge RV Park. Even though we are moving to a campsite within the National Park, it is still difficult to think of leaving here. This is, without a doubt, the most amazing place we’ve stayed with Livvy. We will definitely come back some day. And it will be magical.
But no matter what, this first time will always live in our minds and in our hearts. We are so blessed to have friends like Wes and Erin.
We have a LOT to come in the next four days in Yellowstone, so keep checking in!
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