We're in Yellowstone!

We had a nice drive from Bozeman to Gardiner this morning. We arrived at our RV park, Yellowstone RV Park, around lunch time. We'll be here for a month or so, while I help to train campground employees. We were the first Xanterra employees to arrive at the park, so we have the place to ourselves, except for the manager. This picture shows how empty the campground is...but it won't be that way for long - I promise you.


After getting the rig set up, we drove into Yellowstone. Seeing this sign reminded me just how early we are...nothing is open, except for Mammoth Campground, which is open year-round.
Driving from the entrance towards Mammoth, we see our first bison. We played like real tourists & stopped the truck in the middle of the road so I could get a quick picture.


From Mammoth we took the only road that is now open and drove through the Lamar Valley. Because this road takes you to Cooke City, the National Park Service keeps it open all year so the folks in Cooke City can get out during the winter when Hwy 212 is closed.

We decided this herd of bison was practicing for tourist season...standing in the middle of the road, causing "bison jams." The bison look great this year! Last year, because they had such a harsh winter, some of the bison looked emaciated. This year, I am happy to say, they look healthy & happy. Well, as happy as a bison can look, I suppose.


From what I've heard, I don't think there is quite as much snow this year as last year. But as you can see from this picture, the Lamar Valley still has quite a bit.

We saw a good bit of wildlife: several coyotes, bison, hawks, big horn sheep, and some great bear tracks. We saw quite a few elk, as well. On some we could see where their antlers are just beginning. But this fellow is well on his way to a great set of antlers. I predict he'll be the "big boy" come fall.


Today's weather was perfect!!! It was sunny with clear blue skies and about 50 degrees. I know mother nature is trying to lure me into a false sense of security...wanting me to believe that winter is over. Based on the forecast, I don't think that's the case. Starting tomorrow, and for the next several days, we have a chance of snow. Springtime in Yellowstone...you gotta love it!