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This is Week Two of our 9 week road trip. For those of you contemplating travel to this area, I'm hoping you realize one may view much in little time.
Also, I hope this will inspire some of you to take in our national parks. Get out and see this fantastic land while you are able.
We had a blast!
WYOMING
AUG 27th LOG
- Breakfast $11.46 – Shop Wal-Mart, $41.17 – Left Cody - odometer 196341
- Buffalo Bill Dam - Shoshone River
- Yellowstone East Gate, odometer 196394.9
- 3:35 Lewis Falls & stream – out Yellowstone S. Gate
- Teton NP, South Jenny Lake tent site, 2 nights $12
We stayed the night of Aug 26th at Green Gables Inn in Cody, WY. (A very nice, clean, no extras motel.)
Sunday
Cody appeared to be a thriving tourist town… so many motels and trinket shops. We contributed one night’s stay, a breakfast and replenished our mini-fridge food supply at Wal-Mart. Fresh fruit and bottled water helped to minimize meals and forced us to stop regularly.
We drove westward 6 miles on US-14. Buffalo Bill Dam & the beautiful Shoshone River is a Must-stop! Do not pass up a look over the front side of the dam. The gorge below is unbelievable.
Google Shoshone Project for a fascinating read.
Just 50 miles from Cody, we entered America's most famous national park. Our journey was slowed by the monstrous road-rebuilding project. Many of the dangerous switchbacks are gone and grades are now less steep. Stone safety walls are being constructed. The beautiful scenery is still WOW, but the mystic has been lessened. Traffic will move along now, allowing less time for viewing. I’m certain required turnouts will be added.
Photos: Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Cody to TETON...
Click on Slideshow and allow pictures to download. Maximise your montor screen. With Slideshow, photos are presented close to full-page size.
We’re heading to Teton National Park to grab a campsite at South Jenny Lake before all are taken. We moved rather quickly through Yellowstone … in East Gate (at 196395), stopping only briefly to admire Yellowstone Lake… looked at one steamy mud pot… crossed the Continental Divide... paused to grab pictures of pretty Lewis Falls & stream, then out the South Gate (3:35 PM). We’ll come back to YNP on the 29th.
The Lewis River takes a 30 ft. drop at Lewis Falls, as it rushes away from nearby Lewis Lake.
Followed along Jackson Lake with grand views of the mountains as a backdrop. Shortly after the turnoff to Colter Bay Village, we turned right and followed the Teton Park Road to Jenny Lake Road (one way) along Jenny Lake to South Jenny Lake Campground. Real pretty that way, looking at mountains across the lakes.
We dilly-dallied too long. All lake-view sites were taken, but we had spectacular views of the Grand Teton Mountains. Roamed the area looking for firewood. Fallen trees along the lakeshore had to be broken up and lugged to camp. Obtain firewood prior to camping here.
Built a campfire and made a soup & salad meal. We’re anxious to see this park, but tonight we’ll take a few pictures and relax in our chairs under the very bright moon and stars. No TV, phone, sirens, traffic … No city light to spoil the sky either. This place was so peaceably fantasfabulous.
AUG 28th LOG
- Wilson Road to Teton Village (base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort)
- walked Jackson some, 74 degrees at 12:26
- float ride Snake River. $100 + Ice and Chocolate bars $7.98
- Camped South Jenny Lake
- Fueled at Moose 196516 329 mi.
- bought post cards and photo CD
- Supper – Bob’ treat, no split
SUB TOTAL = $90.71
Monday
The road to Teton Village is oh so narrow. Looked around the ski lodge a bit, and then drove Hwy 22 to poke around in Jackson Hole. The town didn’t appear crowded, but we had to hunt for parking. Stacks of elk antlers formed entrances at the city-center park. Elk lose them naturally, so we learned.
TNP photos: Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - TETON NATIONA...
Just days prior to our arrival, Chuck and Cindi Russell toured here. Some of their photos: Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Jenny Lake an...
We rode a gentle, very relaxing Dornan’s Float down Snake River. Saw several eagles, numerous trout and one deer with quite a rack. Took too many photos of the river and spectacular Tetons. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Floating the ...
This park is a showcase of Rocky Mountain grandeur. From grassy valleys and the Snake River, elevations range to 14,259 feet at the weather-ravaged top of Longs Peak. We had wonderful views from every place we ventured.
We were too early for autumn’s golden aspens, but we hit it right for enjoying the most spectacular weather.
What BREATHABLE air, Teton night skies and the Stars! Great for sleeping!
AUG 29th LOG
- 9:54 AM – 196575 Departed South Jenny Lake - to Old Faithful
- Air is so great in forests. Beautiful lakes and streams and starry night sky,
- Nice Pierce Creek Rapids. New tree growth on hillsides,
- Yellowstone Water Falls. Gibbons River Falls, Virginia Cascades
- toured Yellowstone NP but for Mammoth Hot Springs,
- motel $57.78.
- supper $19.92
Tuesday
Packed it up - left Jenny Lake. What a lovely place. No city around.
Headed out of Teton to drive Yellowstone.
Go to Yellowstone National Park (U.S. National Park Service) if you wish a lot of government information on YNP.
For various routes and Things To Do & See: Yellowstone National Park Vacation Resources Provided by Yellowstone Park.com
Just inside Yellowstone (1.3 miles north of the south entrance) there’s a signed turnout for Moose Falls. This beautiful waterfall splashes off a 30’ drop along Crawfish Creek. It is a short walk from the roadside turnout to get down to the base of the falls.
Drove around Yellowstone Lake Yellowstone Lake - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia and at West Thumb we went west on Grand Loop Road to observe thermal features, "nature's wonderland”, mud pots and vast burnt over forested mountains. Surprising is speed of new growth reforestation.
“Boy! This air feels nice!”
We found a parking space at Old Faithful and mingled with the crowd awaiting the famous eruption. We caught a slight glimpse of one as we were driving in. Waited over an hour for the next.
What to do??? Roamed the grounds a bit… there are several geysers near Old Faithful. Humans everywhere, doing the same.
Stood in huge line to get a large cone, worked the laptop and observed arriving tour buses.
A lone buffalo meandered through, between the parking lot and Old Faithful. Didn’t seem to mind the people at all.
The Geyser Observation and Study Association (GOSA) has several photos of geysers and springs at Welcome to The Geyser Observation and Study Association
In its own sweet time, Old Faithful geyser spouted the anticipated splendor. We departed with the crowd… should have been here when schools were yet in session.
Continued up Grand Loop Road to Norris Canyon Road to Canyon Village. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - YELLOWSTONE N...
Spent the rest of the afternoon taking in Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its spectacular waterfalls. What a beautiful stream! Viewed Yellowstone Waterfalls - Gibbons River and Waterfalls - VA Cascades. All of it would have been nice to just sit and take in for hours.
Directions:
Lower Falls: From Canyon, drive on the one-way North Rim Drive to the signed turnouts at Lookout Pt. and Brink of the Lower Falls. On the south side of the river, drive south on the Grand Loop Rd towards Fishing Bridge, to the signed turnoff for Artist Pt. and Uncle Tom's Trail.
The Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River crashes through the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone a short distance upstream from the Lower Falls. At 109 ft. high, it is not as dramatic or inspiring as the Lower Falls, but is still nonetheless an incredible waterfall not to be missed.
There are not as many great viewpoints for Upper Yellowstone Falls. The best is from Uncle Tom's Trail parking area. Walk to the canyon rim to the developed overlook. A better and closer view is available by walking on the trail upriver for a short 10-15 minutes, bringing you to an excellent overlook. Another interesting perspective of the Upper Falls can be found at the Brink of the Upper Falls trail, a short easy walk leading you to the top of the falls. This signed turnoff is off the Grand Loop Rd.
White clouds & blue skies were with us the whole day!
We did not climb to the heights necessary to capture whole-canyon photos, but copied some, so you can get some idea. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Yellowstone G...
It is good that the Yellowstone National Park is protected and preserved as a public park. Yellowstone is a marvel. Definitely something not to be missed.
Leaving the falls, we drove north on Grand Loop. Ran out of photo-taking daylight by the time we neared Mammoth. Went on up US-89 40 miles to Gardiner, MT for lodging. We chose the old-timey section of Yellowstone River Motel. Such a perfect setting… overlooking the Yellowstone River. The unit had two bedrooms, each with sink and mirror. The bathroom was a lockoff space. Opened the slide-sideways windows as soon as we got in to take in the air and hear the river.
The menu at the Rusty Rail was quite pricey. We ordered 2 Mine Burgers. To not sound negative, I’ll just say… we didn’t go to bed hungry!
MONTANA
AUG 30th LOG
- Toured Mammouth Hot Springs
- 196823 - Livingston – 1:32PM – 306 miles
- Fueled 18.3 gal
- Bozeman Pass (2:44 PM)
- drove 270 miles to Missoula, MT.
- KOA, Missoula, MT $20.06
- WalMart battery box, sponges, bag clips $09.67
SUB TOTAL = $81.16
Wednesday Backtracked to visit Mammoth Hot Springs in the daylight. Many elk were grazing in the little town. Quite a lovely site.
Normally I would say “What a waste to backtrack.” I’m glad we took the time though. Very interesting. Took so many photos. Only showing you a few. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Mammoth Hot S...
We departed Yellowstone via the northeast gate at Gardiner and continued on till I-90W. Crossed Bozeman Pass (2:44 PM) and descended into the Gallatin Valley and the city of Bozeman.
Tent Camped in KOA Missoula - a big mistake. Right at the edge of town. Real city noise. Missoula is supposedly Montana's Garden City. I think we arrived too late.
AUG 31 LOG
- Missoula 197065.7 226.5 miles 16.7 gal
- Lunch $16.00
- Dinner $20.00
- WalMart tarp, sleeping bags, trail mix, groceries: $93.55
- Whitefish KOA cabin - 2 nights x $56.82
SUB TOTAL = $146.98
Thursday
Leaving Missoula, we did not take the “main drag” to Kalispell. We headed eastward on MT200 to Clearwater, then up MT83 through the Seeley – Swan Valley passing Salmon Lake, Seeley Lake, Lake Inez and Lake Alva toward Swan Lake with it’s magnificent water. Had views of the Mission Range to our left and the Swan Range to the right. MT83 is simply a soothing scenic route leading us to Glacier National Park.
But wait. We have to stop. A must on the To Do list... Lunch at HUNGRY BEAR STEAK HOUSE! Should you be going this way, Hungry Bear is located in the Swan Valley, 1½ hours from both Missoula and Kalispell, between mile marker 38 and 39. Hungry Bear Steak House
After a great meal, we traversed the beautiful shoreline of Flathead Lake and on up to Kalispell. Flathead by the way is 28 miles long and up to 15 miles wide, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi.
When people speak of Montana, I hear “Big Sky, open land, majestic mountains.” We hadn’t reached Glacier Nat’l Park yet, but I’d have to agree.
Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Yellowstone t...
We purchased extra sleeping bags at Missoula, as overnight Temps were expected to be 29. Still, we chickened out and chose a KOA Kabin just south of Whitefish. Our bedding fit their mattresses just fine. Up the hill one block were restroom facilities equipped with electricity, flush toilets, sinks with running water and several shower stalls.
After getting set up in the bare bones cabin, we set their plug-in electric heater to as low as it would go, just to take the chill out. We headed for 660 E. Idaho Street in Kalispell… FINNEGANS FAMILY RESTAURANT for dinner. A real nice place with good food and decent prices.
We retired to KOA, relaxed outside awhile, watching the light-of-night changes over the treetops. We were anxious… only 24 miles away from Glacier.
Glacier National Park - Most visitor facilities are open from late May to mid-September. During the winter, in-park services are not available. I had read where the park shuttles run June 4 – Sep 19. That’s why the concern, that we might get snowed out.
SEP 1st LOG
Whitefish 13.67gal
Columbia, MT 7.63 gal FULL TANK
Friday
A complementary self-service buffet awaited us, both mornings, on site at Buffalo Bob’s. There was a surprising variety and it was really good … not like it was served to you of course, but you could pick and choose any or all. Heated trays of scrambled eggs, grits, fresh made biscuits, gravy, pancakes.
Microwave and toasters were available for bagels, toast, and waffles. There was the norm also… doughnuts, cold cereals, instant oatmeal, bananas, milk, coffee, orange juice, tea bags, cocoa mix, peanut butter, jelly, cream cheese, margarine, etc, etc.
After this most handy buffet, it was off to the Going-to-the-Sun Road; 52 miles of the most spectacular scenery I’ve ever experienced. This two-lane highway bisects Glacier, passing through almost every type of terrain in the park. Scenic viewpoints and pullouts are many and we spent much time for extended viewing and picture taking.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a scenic landmark crossing between the west entrance near the Flathead Valley and the east entrance at St. Mary via Logan Pass. The 50-mile paved road was completed in the 1930’s. In 1983, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and in 1996 was designated a National Landmark. The road is narrow, steep and winding, with numerous pullouts for viewing scenery. Travelers should plan to spend 1½ to 3 hours to complete the distance.
Amongst many of our stops was Historic Lake McDonald Lodge. Just had to look over the red Jammer buses, check out the lodge interior (marvelous) and photograph reflections of forest and mountains on calm Lake McDonald.
This park is fabulously diverse. I use awe a lot; as AWE is what I think describes it best.
Rode though lush forests, along gorgeous lakes and alpine meadows. Gazed upon spectacular glaciered landscape. What a paradise. As we looked down -- or glanced across --- our thoughts of awe and inspiration moved freely from one mountain peak to another.
We traveled along viewing ever-changing landscape. Fantastic meadows and towering glaciered mountains - looked down on lower valleys with their lakes and cedar forests. There are waterfalls and wildflowers and … can’t say enough… spectacular scenery and glimpses. We were saying WOW with every turn and switchback. We were in awe at the rugged, windswept mountains rising abruptly before us.
The Continental Divide was crossed at 6,646-foot-high Logan Pass. The alpine tundra atop the pass… again I say “awesome”.
After refueling (forgot to log it) and an ice cream at St Mary, we turned around and traveled the opposite direction. We wanted to view the rugged peaks again, in different light. One time through was not enough. The Civil Engineering Landmark, Going-To-The-Sun Road, is truly amazing. My hat is off to those risking all… making such grandeur visible by a simple drive through.
As hard as we tried we never got to see mountain goats, however the spectacular views were the highlight of Trip West.
Let me make something clear… Capturing the magnificence of these mountains and valleys on camera is impossible. There is truly GRANDEUR here and you must be present with your panoramic vision and head turning. Going-To-The-Sun Road of Glacier National Park is most spectacular. A perfect mix of mountains, forest and water. This was by far my favorite stop of Trip West. This one place would be worth the journey.
The views were breathtaking. You can travel to the ends of the earth and you won’t find a more beautiful place than Glacier National Park. We only saw a fraction of Glacier’s awesome terrain and beauty. Look at the pictures. I think you’ll agree that we took in a lot in one day. The photos were taken of vistas seen from road. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - GLACIER NATIO...
After our most exciting day, we crashed at KOA Kabin.
I could spend a month just driving around Montana. The landscape includes rolling hills, glacier scoured valleys, bright blue lakes and the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains… And, the air is so breathable. After sighting Glacier, I have to say Northwest Montana is a rare and special place.
SEP 2 LOG
ID State Line
WA State Line 7:33pm
18.3 gal $53.06
lodging at Fairchild AFB, - Near Spokane $25.00
Saturday We are so glad we didn’t head straight for Spokane. Instead, we took a route viewing more unforgettable country... US-93 northwest out of Whitefish, up through Flathead National Forest to Eureka. We could see the Whitefish Mtn Range off to our right.
Glacier to Spokane photos (some copied and/or scanned) depict a few places seen on our day trip from Whitefish, MT, through a bit of Northern Idaho, and Spokane.
Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Glacier to Sp...
Seven miles short of British Columbia we turned south and rode through Kootenai National Forest on MT37, along the east side of Lake Koocanusa. The elevation afforded most spectacular views for 62 miles, all the way to Libby Dam. Please view Lake Koocanusa, Libby, Montana
At Libby we picked up US-2 and followed along the Kootenai River downstream to the Falls.
Kootenai Falls - The last major waterfall on a Northwest river that has not been harnessed to produce electricity. This is one of the largest free-flowing waterfalls in the northwest. The placid river suddenly gathers momentum, surging first through China Rapids and then over Kootenai Falls, dropping 90 feet in less than a mile. The main falls is 30 feet high, but there’s a lot of width.
From the parking area a trail winds down to the falls. There’s a special pedestrian bridge over the railroad tracks. A trail also follows along the river (about ¼ mile), leading to a swinging bridge.
The Kootenai is a perfect place to relax and enjoy one of our National Forests!
14 miles west of Libby (US-2), we traveled southward on MT56 for 35 miles through the Ross Creek Scenic Area Giant Cedars. Ross Creek Giant Cedars Natural Area, Libby, Montana
Shortly after we passed Bull Lake, we turned west onto MT200. It was here, on the left just after we made that turn that we noticed a little store with people sitting in the yard under umbrellas.
FOOD!!! We know it had to be A PLACE as the parking lot was full. The lines were jammed up. Young ladies were filling orders as fast as they could go. There were a few grocery shelves, but for the most part, it was hand-dipped ice cream and sandwich fixins. We wanted both. I stood in the line to get freshly sliced luncheon meats and cheeses, for to make sandwiches later. We bought fresh bread, got super-loaded cones and squeezed out of there to a table outside. We couldn’t believe the economical pricing. A rare real bargain place.
IDAHO
On MT200W we crossed into IDAHO, drove around Lake Pend Oreille and picked up scenic US-95 heading southward. Somewhere along that lake we found a picnic table and fixed up our lunch sandwiches.
A few word about Idaho… Many people know little about Idaho except "famous potatoes." That includes me.
Adjacent to Washington and Oregon, in the Pacific Northwest, is this big state, Idaho. However, until I got there, I didn’t have any concept of this beautiful land. Idaho runs from Canada to Nevada, and encompasses the western side of the continental divide of the Rocky Mountains. Rivers, mountains and farmland dominate the state’s landscape.
We traveled only a little of the panhandle. We beheld scenic vistas around every turn; emerald green hillsides, timbered mountains and pristine lakes.
In reading, I found that Central Idaho is covered with jagged peaks. The Snake River Plain, with its wide-open vistas, irrigated farmlands and vibrant cities forms the character of Southern Idaho.
Some things I've read about Idaho, while on Trip West:
1) It’s the 13th largest state in the U.S.
2) It has 3,100 miles of rivers (more than any other state).
3) It’s known as The Gem State. 72 types of precious and semi-precious stones are produced. Some of these stones can be found nowhere else in the world.
4) It’s a place that’s unhurried, unspoiled and unassuming.
Another trip is required, to linger awhile and discover more of this magnificent state. Before then, I hope to become more learned of Idaho’s history with its native tribes, the Lewis and Clark Expedition and determined pioneers on the Oregon Trail.
Once again, we got unto I-90W where we crossed into WASHINGTON. We zipped across Spokane to our lodging at Fairchild AFB, just west maybe 15 miles. We’re going to rest up right here for a day.
Again, (to save you from scanning back up the page) photos may be found under Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Glacier to Sp...
SEP 3 LOG
- Shopped AFB exchange. Lodging/camping books. $26.55
- Split a Robin Hood Archer sandwich $7.25
- Lodging $26.00
- WalMart groceries $14.27
Sunday
Ran back, out I-90 East, to view some of sparkling Lake Coeur d'Alene and the mountains that surround it. We drove the eastern shoreline awhile. It was sure pretty, but after all we had seen thus far, we weren’t impressed enough to continue. We turned around after about 50 miles.
Worked the laptop, Gerald napped some, we both watched TV. Really a laid back, goof off day. Tried to recoup from the 1500 miles of go-go-go driving/riding and trail climbing of the past week. I never realized it was that long since the good bed at Cody. Makes us realize we aren’t used to this.
Next week we’ll be hitting the Columbia Gorge region to the Oregon Coast, then up through Western Washington State. For today, we'll rest!
Also, I hope this will inspire some of you to take in our national parks. Get out and see this fantastic land while you are able.
We had a blast!
WYOMING
AUG 27th LOG
- Breakfast $11.46 – Shop Wal-Mart, $41.17 – Left Cody - odometer 196341
- Buffalo Bill Dam - Shoshone River
- Yellowstone East Gate, odometer 196394.9
- 3:35 Lewis Falls & stream – out Yellowstone S. Gate
- Teton NP, South Jenny Lake tent site, 2 nights $12
We stayed the night of Aug 26th at Green Gables Inn in Cody, WY. (A very nice, clean, no extras motel.)
Sunday
Cody appeared to be a thriving tourist town… so many motels and trinket shops. We contributed one night’s stay, a breakfast and replenished our mini-fridge food supply at Wal-Mart. Fresh fruit and bottled water helped to minimize meals and forced us to stop regularly.
We drove westward 6 miles on US-14. Buffalo Bill Dam & the beautiful Shoshone River is a Must-stop! Do not pass up a look over the front side of the dam. The gorge below is unbelievable.
Google Shoshone Project for a fascinating read.
Just 50 miles from Cody, we entered America's most famous national park. Our journey was slowed by the monstrous road-rebuilding project. Many of the dangerous switchbacks are gone and grades are now less steep. Stone safety walls are being constructed. The beautiful scenery is still WOW, but the mystic has been lessened. Traffic will move along now, allowing less time for viewing. I’m certain required turnouts will be added.
Photos: Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Cody to TETON...
Click on Slideshow and allow pictures to download. Maximise your montor screen. With Slideshow, photos are presented close to full-page size.
We’re heading to Teton National Park to grab a campsite at South Jenny Lake before all are taken. We moved rather quickly through Yellowstone … in East Gate (at 196395), stopping only briefly to admire Yellowstone Lake… looked at one steamy mud pot… crossed the Continental Divide... paused to grab pictures of pretty Lewis Falls & stream, then out the South Gate (3:35 PM). We’ll come back to YNP on the 29th.
The Lewis River takes a 30 ft. drop at Lewis Falls, as it rushes away from nearby Lewis Lake.
Followed along Jackson Lake with grand views of the mountains as a backdrop. Shortly after the turnoff to Colter Bay Village, we turned right and followed the Teton Park Road to Jenny Lake Road (one way) along Jenny Lake to South Jenny Lake Campground. Real pretty that way, looking at mountains across the lakes.
We dilly-dallied too long. All lake-view sites were taken, but we had spectacular views of the Grand Teton Mountains. Roamed the area looking for firewood. Fallen trees along the lakeshore had to be broken up and lugged to camp. Obtain firewood prior to camping here.
Built a campfire and made a soup & salad meal. We’re anxious to see this park, but tonight we’ll take a few pictures and relax in our chairs under the very bright moon and stars. No TV, phone, sirens, traffic … No city light to spoil the sky either. This place was so peaceably fantasfabulous.
AUG 28th LOG
- Wilson Road to Teton Village (base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort)
- walked Jackson some, 74 degrees at 12:26
- float ride Snake River. $100 + Ice and Chocolate bars $7.98
- Camped South Jenny Lake
- Fueled at Moose 196516 329 mi.
- bought post cards and photo CD
- Supper – Bob’ treat, no split
SUB TOTAL = $90.71
Monday
The road to Teton Village is oh so narrow. Looked around the ski lodge a bit, and then drove Hwy 22 to poke around in Jackson Hole. The town didn’t appear crowded, but we had to hunt for parking. Stacks of elk antlers formed entrances at the city-center park. Elk lose them naturally, so we learned.
TNP photos: Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - TETON NATIONA...
Just days prior to our arrival, Chuck and Cindi Russell toured here. Some of their photos: Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Jenny Lake an...
We rode a gentle, very relaxing Dornan’s Float down Snake River. Saw several eagles, numerous trout and one deer with quite a rack. Took too many photos of the river and spectacular Tetons. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Floating the ...
This park is a showcase of Rocky Mountain grandeur. From grassy valleys and the Snake River, elevations range to 14,259 feet at the weather-ravaged top of Longs Peak. We had wonderful views from every place we ventured.
We were too early for autumn’s golden aspens, but we hit it right for enjoying the most spectacular weather.
What BREATHABLE air, Teton night skies and the Stars! Great for sleeping!
AUG 29th LOG
- 9:54 AM – 196575 Departed South Jenny Lake - to Old Faithful
- Air is so great in forests. Beautiful lakes and streams and starry night sky,
- Nice Pierce Creek Rapids. New tree growth on hillsides,
- Yellowstone Water Falls. Gibbons River Falls, Virginia Cascades
- toured Yellowstone NP but for Mammoth Hot Springs,
- motel $57.78.
- supper $19.92
Tuesday
Packed it up - left Jenny Lake. What a lovely place. No city around.
Headed out of Teton to drive Yellowstone.
Go to Yellowstone National Park (U.S. National Park Service) if you wish a lot of government information on YNP.
For various routes and Things To Do & See: Yellowstone National Park Vacation Resources Provided by Yellowstone Park.com
Just inside Yellowstone (1.3 miles north of the south entrance) there’s a signed turnout for Moose Falls. This beautiful waterfall splashes off a 30’ drop along Crawfish Creek. It is a short walk from the roadside turnout to get down to the base of the falls.
Drove around Yellowstone Lake Yellowstone Lake - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia and at West Thumb we went west on Grand Loop Road to observe thermal features, "nature's wonderland”, mud pots and vast burnt over forested mountains. Surprising is speed of new growth reforestation.
“Boy! This air feels nice!”
We found a parking space at Old Faithful and mingled with the crowd awaiting the famous eruption. We caught a slight glimpse of one as we were driving in. Waited over an hour for the next.
What to do??? Roamed the grounds a bit… there are several geysers near Old Faithful. Humans everywhere, doing the same.
Stood in huge line to get a large cone, worked the laptop and observed arriving tour buses.
A lone buffalo meandered through, between the parking lot and Old Faithful. Didn’t seem to mind the people at all.
The Geyser Observation and Study Association (GOSA) has several photos of geysers and springs at Welcome to The Geyser Observation and Study Association
In its own sweet time, Old Faithful geyser spouted the anticipated splendor. We departed with the crowd… should have been here when schools were yet in session.
Continued up Grand Loop Road to Norris Canyon Road to Canyon Village. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - YELLOWSTONE N...
Spent the rest of the afternoon taking in Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its spectacular waterfalls. What a beautiful stream! Viewed Yellowstone Waterfalls - Gibbons River and Waterfalls - VA Cascades. All of it would have been nice to just sit and take in for hours.
Directions:
Lower Falls: From Canyon, drive on the one-way North Rim Drive to the signed turnouts at Lookout Pt. and Brink of the Lower Falls. On the south side of the river, drive south on the Grand Loop Rd towards Fishing Bridge, to the signed turnoff for Artist Pt. and Uncle Tom's Trail.
The Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River crashes through the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone a short distance upstream from the Lower Falls. At 109 ft. high, it is not as dramatic or inspiring as the Lower Falls, but is still nonetheless an incredible waterfall not to be missed.
There are not as many great viewpoints for Upper Yellowstone Falls. The best is from Uncle Tom's Trail parking area. Walk to the canyon rim to the developed overlook. A better and closer view is available by walking on the trail upriver for a short 10-15 minutes, bringing you to an excellent overlook. Another interesting perspective of the Upper Falls can be found at the Brink of the Upper Falls trail, a short easy walk leading you to the top of the falls. This signed turnoff is off the Grand Loop Rd.
White clouds & blue skies were with us the whole day!
We did not climb to the heights necessary to capture whole-canyon photos, but copied some, so you can get some idea. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Yellowstone G...
It is good that the Yellowstone National Park is protected and preserved as a public park. Yellowstone is a marvel. Definitely something not to be missed.
Leaving the falls, we drove north on Grand Loop. Ran out of photo-taking daylight by the time we neared Mammoth. Went on up US-89 40 miles to Gardiner, MT for lodging. We chose the old-timey section of Yellowstone River Motel. Such a perfect setting… overlooking the Yellowstone River. The unit had two bedrooms, each with sink and mirror. The bathroom was a lockoff space. Opened the slide-sideways windows as soon as we got in to take in the air and hear the river.
The menu at the Rusty Rail was quite pricey. We ordered 2 Mine Burgers. To not sound negative, I’ll just say… we didn’t go to bed hungry!
MONTANA
AUG 30th LOG
- Toured Mammouth Hot Springs
- 196823 - Livingston – 1:32PM – 306 miles
- Fueled 18.3 gal
- Bozeman Pass (2:44 PM)
- drove 270 miles to Missoula, MT.
- KOA, Missoula, MT $20.06
- WalMart battery box, sponges, bag clips $09.67
SUB TOTAL = $81.16
Wednesday Backtracked to visit Mammoth Hot Springs in the daylight. Many elk were grazing in the little town. Quite a lovely site.
Normally I would say “What a waste to backtrack.” I’m glad we took the time though. Very interesting. Took so many photos. Only showing you a few. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Mammoth Hot S...
We departed Yellowstone via the northeast gate at Gardiner and continued on till I-90W. Crossed Bozeman Pass (2:44 PM) and descended into the Gallatin Valley and the city of Bozeman.
Tent Camped in KOA Missoula - a big mistake. Right at the edge of town. Real city noise. Missoula is supposedly Montana's Garden City. I think we arrived too late.
AUG 31 LOG
- Missoula 197065.7 226.5 miles 16.7 gal
- Lunch $16.00
- Dinner $20.00
- WalMart tarp, sleeping bags, trail mix, groceries: $93.55
- Whitefish KOA cabin - 2 nights x $56.82
SUB TOTAL = $146.98
Thursday
Leaving Missoula, we did not take the “main drag” to Kalispell. We headed eastward on MT200 to Clearwater, then up MT83 through the Seeley – Swan Valley passing Salmon Lake, Seeley Lake, Lake Inez and Lake Alva toward Swan Lake with it’s magnificent water. Had views of the Mission Range to our left and the Swan Range to the right. MT83 is simply a soothing scenic route leading us to Glacier National Park.
But wait. We have to stop. A must on the To Do list... Lunch at HUNGRY BEAR STEAK HOUSE! Should you be going this way, Hungry Bear is located in the Swan Valley, 1½ hours from both Missoula and Kalispell, between mile marker 38 and 39. Hungry Bear Steak House
After a great meal, we traversed the beautiful shoreline of Flathead Lake and on up to Kalispell. Flathead by the way is 28 miles long and up to 15 miles wide, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi.
When people speak of Montana, I hear “Big Sky, open land, majestic mountains.” We hadn’t reached Glacier Nat’l Park yet, but I’d have to agree.
Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Yellowstone t...
We purchased extra sleeping bags at Missoula, as overnight Temps were expected to be 29. Still, we chickened out and chose a KOA Kabin just south of Whitefish. Our bedding fit their mattresses just fine. Up the hill one block were restroom facilities equipped with electricity, flush toilets, sinks with running water and several shower stalls.
After getting set up in the bare bones cabin, we set their plug-in electric heater to as low as it would go, just to take the chill out. We headed for 660 E. Idaho Street in Kalispell… FINNEGANS FAMILY RESTAURANT for dinner. A real nice place with good food and decent prices.
We retired to KOA, relaxed outside awhile, watching the light-of-night changes over the treetops. We were anxious… only 24 miles away from Glacier.
Glacier National Park - Most visitor facilities are open from late May to mid-September. During the winter, in-park services are not available. I had read where the park shuttles run June 4 – Sep 19. That’s why the concern, that we might get snowed out.
SEP 1st LOG
Whitefish 13.67gal
Columbia, MT 7.63 gal FULL TANK
Friday
A complementary self-service buffet awaited us, both mornings, on site at Buffalo Bob’s. There was a surprising variety and it was really good … not like it was served to you of course, but you could pick and choose any or all. Heated trays of scrambled eggs, grits, fresh made biscuits, gravy, pancakes.
Microwave and toasters were available for bagels, toast, and waffles. There was the norm also… doughnuts, cold cereals, instant oatmeal, bananas, milk, coffee, orange juice, tea bags, cocoa mix, peanut butter, jelly, cream cheese, margarine, etc, etc.
After this most handy buffet, it was off to the Going-to-the-Sun Road; 52 miles of the most spectacular scenery I’ve ever experienced. This two-lane highway bisects Glacier, passing through almost every type of terrain in the park. Scenic viewpoints and pullouts are many and we spent much time for extended viewing and picture taking.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a scenic landmark crossing between the west entrance near the Flathead Valley and the east entrance at St. Mary via Logan Pass. The 50-mile paved road was completed in the 1930’s. In 1983, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and in 1996 was designated a National Landmark. The road is narrow, steep and winding, with numerous pullouts for viewing scenery. Travelers should plan to spend 1½ to 3 hours to complete the distance.
Amongst many of our stops was Historic Lake McDonald Lodge. Just had to look over the red Jammer buses, check out the lodge interior (marvelous) and photograph reflections of forest and mountains on calm Lake McDonald.
This park is fabulously diverse. I use awe a lot; as AWE is what I think describes it best.
Rode though lush forests, along gorgeous lakes and alpine meadows. Gazed upon spectacular glaciered landscape. What a paradise. As we looked down -- or glanced across --- our thoughts of awe and inspiration moved freely from one mountain peak to another.
We traveled along viewing ever-changing landscape. Fantastic meadows and towering glaciered mountains - looked down on lower valleys with their lakes and cedar forests. There are waterfalls and wildflowers and … can’t say enough… spectacular scenery and glimpses. We were saying WOW with every turn and switchback. We were in awe at the rugged, windswept mountains rising abruptly before us.
The Continental Divide was crossed at 6,646-foot-high Logan Pass. The alpine tundra atop the pass… again I say “awesome”.
After refueling (forgot to log it) and an ice cream at St Mary, we turned around and traveled the opposite direction. We wanted to view the rugged peaks again, in different light. One time through was not enough. The Civil Engineering Landmark, Going-To-The-Sun Road, is truly amazing. My hat is off to those risking all… making such grandeur visible by a simple drive through.
As hard as we tried we never got to see mountain goats, however the spectacular views were the highlight of Trip West.
Let me make something clear… Capturing the magnificence of these mountains and valleys on camera is impossible. There is truly GRANDEUR here and you must be present with your panoramic vision and head turning. Going-To-The-Sun Road of Glacier National Park is most spectacular. A perfect mix of mountains, forest and water. This was by far my favorite stop of Trip West. This one place would be worth the journey.
The views were breathtaking. You can travel to the ends of the earth and you won’t find a more beautiful place than Glacier National Park. We only saw a fraction of Glacier’s awesome terrain and beauty. Look at the pictures. I think you’ll agree that we took in a lot in one day. The photos were taken of vistas seen from road. Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - GLACIER NATIO...
After our most exciting day, we crashed at KOA Kabin.
I could spend a month just driving around Montana. The landscape includes rolling hills, glacier scoured valleys, bright blue lakes and the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains… And, the air is so breathable. After sighting Glacier, I have to say Northwest Montana is a rare and special place.
SEP 2 LOG
ID State Line
WA State Line 7:33pm
18.3 gal $53.06
lodging at Fairchild AFB, - Near Spokane $25.00
Saturday We are so glad we didn’t head straight for Spokane. Instead, we took a route viewing more unforgettable country... US-93 northwest out of Whitefish, up through Flathead National Forest to Eureka. We could see the Whitefish Mtn Range off to our right.
Glacier to Spokane photos (some copied and/or scanned) depict a few places seen on our day trip from Whitefish, MT, through a bit of Northern Idaho, and Spokane.
Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Glacier to Sp...
Seven miles short of British Columbia we turned south and rode through Kootenai National Forest on MT37, along the east side of Lake Koocanusa. The elevation afforded most spectacular views for 62 miles, all the way to Libby Dam. Please view Lake Koocanusa, Libby, Montana
At Libby we picked up US-2 and followed along the Kootenai River downstream to the Falls.
Kootenai Falls - The last major waterfall on a Northwest river that has not been harnessed to produce electricity. This is one of the largest free-flowing waterfalls in the northwest. The placid river suddenly gathers momentum, surging first through China Rapids and then over Kootenai Falls, dropping 90 feet in less than a mile. The main falls is 30 feet high, but there’s a lot of width.
From the parking area a trail winds down to the falls. There’s a special pedestrian bridge over the railroad tracks. A trail also follows along the river (about ¼ mile), leading to a swinging bridge.
The Kootenai is a perfect place to relax and enjoy one of our National Forests!
14 miles west of Libby (US-2), we traveled southward on MT56 for 35 miles through the Ross Creek Scenic Area Giant Cedars. Ross Creek Giant Cedars Natural Area, Libby, Montana
Shortly after we passed Bull Lake, we turned west onto MT200. It was here, on the left just after we made that turn that we noticed a little store with people sitting in the yard under umbrellas.
FOOD!!! We know it had to be A PLACE as the parking lot was full. The lines were jammed up. Young ladies were filling orders as fast as they could go. There were a few grocery shelves, but for the most part, it was hand-dipped ice cream and sandwich fixins. We wanted both. I stood in the line to get freshly sliced luncheon meats and cheeses, for to make sandwiches later. We bought fresh bread, got super-loaded cones and squeezed out of there to a table outside. We couldn’t believe the economical pricing. A rare real bargain place.
IDAHO
On MT200W we crossed into IDAHO, drove around Lake Pend Oreille and picked up scenic US-95 heading southward. Somewhere along that lake we found a picnic table and fixed up our lunch sandwiches.
A few word about Idaho… Many people know little about Idaho except "famous potatoes." That includes me.
Adjacent to Washington and Oregon, in the Pacific Northwest, is this big state, Idaho. However, until I got there, I didn’t have any concept of this beautiful land. Idaho runs from Canada to Nevada, and encompasses the western side of the continental divide of the Rocky Mountains. Rivers, mountains and farmland dominate the state’s landscape.
We traveled only a little of the panhandle. We beheld scenic vistas around every turn; emerald green hillsides, timbered mountains and pristine lakes.
In reading, I found that Central Idaho is covered with jagged peaks. The Snake River Plain, with its wide-open vistas, irrigated farmlands and vibrant cities forms the character of Southern Idaho.
Some things I've read about Idaho, while on Trip West:
1) It’s the 13th largest state in the U.S.
2) It has 3,100 miles of rivers (more than any other state).
3) It’s known as The Gem State. 72 types of precious and semi-precious stones are produced. Some of these stones can be found nowhere else in the world.
4) It’s a place that’s unhurried, unspoiled and unassuming.
Another trip is required, to linger awhile and discover more of this magnificent state. Before then, I hope to become more learned of Idaho’s history with its native tribes, the Lewis and Clark Expedition and determined pioneers on the Oregon Trail.
Once again, we got unto I-90W where we crossed into WASHINGTON. We zipped across Spokane to our lodging at Fairchild AFB, just west maybe 15 miles. We’re going to rest up right here for a day.
Again, (to save you from scanning back up the page) photos may be found under Picasa Web Albums - ROBERT - Glacier to Sp...
SEP 3 LOG
- Shopped AFB exchange. Lodging/camping books. $26.55
- Split a Robin Hood Archer sandwich $7.25
- Lodging $26.00
- WalMart groceries $14.27
Sunday
Ran back, out I-90 East, to view some of sparkling Lake Coeur d'Alene and the mountains that surround it. We drove the eastern shoreline awhile. It was sure pretty, but after all we had seen thus far, we weren’t impressed enough to continue. We turned around after about 50 miles.
Worked the laptop, Gerald napped some, we both watched TV. Really a laid back, goof off day. Tried to recoup from the 1500 miles of go-go-go driving/riding and trail climbing of the past week. I never realized it was that long since the good bed at Cody. Makes us realize we aren’t used to this.
Next week we’ll be hitting the Columbia Gorge region to the Oregon Coast, then up through Western Washington State. For today, we'll rest!
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