Yellowstone National Park

August 2019 - photos by Eric

Having spent the previous day in Cody Wyoming, visiting the "Buffalo Bill Center of the West", I arrived at the east gate of Yellowstone National Park.

This drive took me by scenery that deserves to be stared at, so I stopped occasionally and took in the view. The east side of the park has visitors, but not as many as the west side near the Old Faithful Inn. I actually had some moments of silence, except for the sounds of nature…the waves of Yellowstone Lake, a gurgling geyser and nearby raven.

There is so much to see and do here; it would be wise to pre-plan your day events. Other than reaching the Old Faithful Inn, I had no plans; I just enjoy doing things as they come to mind. There are many places to pull off near the lake and have lunch or take a short hike.

I arrived at the Old Faithful Inn, in the afternoon. They do have a good idea when the geyser (Old Faithful) will erupt and they have a large viewing area on the south side, near the Inn. However I found that the view on the north side is just as impressive, without as many tourist. Oh, I guess I was tourist also. Just follow the signs and path north.

There is a nostolgic feeling that transports you back many years. The building looks much the same as it did when it was built, so I am told. The yellow touring bus continues to give tours of the park and can be one of the best ways to observe the wildlife.

After leaving the Old Faithful Inn, I soon came to Madison Junction. Having never stopped here, today was going to be the day. It was a short walk from the parking lot to the Madison Information Center. There is a wonderful path that follows the Madison River. It is a dirt trail and it is an easy hike.

The Madison Information Station was originally build in 1929 as a small museum. Today it contains some historic items, but is mostly a gift shop and information...station. You could easily spend an afternoon exploring this area, and if you are lucky, observe some elk near the river.