I entered Yellowstone National Park from the northwestern entrance near Gardiner, MT. This is a much less used entrance, but it was the best way to get from Glacier National Park. This was one of the original arch entrances to the park and still serves its purpose.
The Mammoth Hot Springs area of Yellowstone has an impressive set of mineral springs that created the mineral deposits shown above. The area also includes Fort Yellowstone and the elk population that just wanders around the village and roads. Wandering wildlife is a common theme in Yellowstone. The hot springs smell strongly like sulfur and are way too hot to touch. The park has wooden boardwalks to use to access the springs, although you may need to hold your breath often.
Over many years, the springs develop crystals which are very beautiful. You can easily see the structure of the crystals formed in the harsh environments of the area. It would be fun to see the first reactions of those that discovered the area which is very different than any other area in the world.
Yes Virginia, there are bison in Yellowstone. Lots of them. They cause major traffic jams. Fortunately, they also taste good! This picture also shows the impacts of fire on the lodgepole pines in the park and the area typical of the northwestern part of Yellowstone. Unfortunately, most people only drive the main loop and never leave the parking lot, missing most of the beauty. This road leads to the Old Faithful area geysers which will be my next post. Enjoy the rest of Mammoth below.
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