Day 25 - July 06, 2015

En route to Yellowstone from Billings.

We reached the top (almost).  That's Larry. 10,672'

Out of sequence.  This photo was made on the climb at 8,615'

Made at the 10,660 fot level, looking down.  This is my favorite

of all the photos I made today.

Larry is getting good make the wildlife photos.

He made this shot too.

Old Faithful blowing.

Fires have been through several areas within Yellowstone.

This has been going on for millions of years, and is

a part of the dynamics of the forest.  The trees regenerate,

and overall the process is actually good for the ecosystem.

July 06, 2015.  Overnight in Cody, Wyoming.  Another day in Montana (and Wyoming)

We awoke this morning in Billings, Montana (Pop. 155,000) to find the temperatures cool to start the day. After loading the bikes we headed to the Northeast entrance of Yellowstone, a ride of a little over two hours.

The first part of the ride to Yellowstone was more of what we had seen for the last two days, more or less, but as we neared Yellowstone the scenery changed dramatically.  And once in the park the breathtaking views were everywhere.  We climbed to a level above the treeline, and today it was above the clouds as well.  We were within thirty feet of the 11,000 feet for elevation.  I have included some of the photos here.  I made over 200 photos today, the most I made in any one day during this trip.  

As we stopped at the top of the road that crosses the mountains (where photos two and four above were made) it was 58 degrees.  The sun was shinning brightly, and that made us feel a little warmer. The wind was blowing at approximately 20 mph, and that made us keep our jackets on.

After our tour up the mountain(s) we went to the southwest part of the park to see Old Faithful errupt. Old Faithful is the most marketed attraction of the park, and apparently a "must see".  Our "showing" was attended by several hundred people.  Most to all had cameras, and the event was forever captured on whatever medium of choice was available.  I got the still photo (above) and a short video. Everyone is a tourist in Yellowstone.

It was a long day.  We made it to our room in Cody, Wyoming (Pop. 9,500; Elevation 5,000') around 10:00.  We were tired, but pleased that we added this day to our ride.

Another good day.