Day 12--9/04/14 North Rim, Lamar Valley, & Mammoth Hot Springs
Today's travel took us along a 150 mile loop starting at Lake Yellowstone Hotel and through the Hayden Valley to the North Rim drive of Yellowstone's Grand Canyon.
Day 12--9/04/14 North Rim, Lamar Valley, & Mammoth Hot Springs
Today's travel took us along a 150 mile loop starting at Lake Yellowstone Hotel and through the Hayden Valley to the North Rim drive of Yellowstone's Grand Canyon.
Lake Yellowstone Hotel
Sulphur Cauldron
Lookout Point, North Rim
Lower Falls from Lookout Point
Inspiration Point
We continued along the Grand Loop road over Dunraven Pass, Mount Washburn, and Tower Fall.
Elk at Dunraven Pass
Driving over Mt. Washburn
Tower Fall
As we continued into the Lamar Valley we encountered a Bison Jam! A small herd of bison took their time crossing the road in front of us and walked along the side of our vehicle as they grazed. We found this rather exciting but it seemed like the bison could care less that we were there. Continuing on through the Lamar Valley we were treated to many beautiful vistas which included more bison herds and antelope. We turned around near Soda Butte and headed back to the Grand Loop.
Lamar Valley
We then traveled on to Mammoth Hot Springs to view the travertine terraces and enjoy a scenic drive through the Upper Terraces. We also walked around Mammoth Village. Although the village is a very busy place, the elk don't seem to mind as they freely roam the streets and bed down on the lawns. You need to carefully watch where you step while walking in the village.
Palette Spring
Liberty Cap
Elk roaming in Mammouth
Upper Terrace Drive
Orange Spring Mound
After visiting Mammoth we continued on the loop back to our hotel spotting many bison along the way.