It’s that time of year again…Yellowstone National Park will be opening up its roads to traffic this week. As a Bozeman, Montana resident, I look forward to visiting The Park at least four or five times per year, sometimes more. The Park is only one and a half hours away; so, often you can make a mini-vacation out of one day in Yellowstone. Fly fish a river in the morning, hike in the afternoon, and relax in one of the Visitor Centers in the late afternoon…a perfect weekend getaway.
Early Spring turns out to be a very good time to cruise the geyser basin boardwalks and trails too. There are hardly any crowds; and, your chances of seeing wildlife or witnessing an unexpected thermal event appear to be much higher and, perhaps, more rewarding.
I recall hiking the Old Faithful overlook trail, a couple of years ago. It’s a relatively easy trail behind the Old Faithful complex; and, because it was breakfast time, no one else was on the trail. Within ten minutes I came across a couple of elk (at a safe distance); and, in another few minutes I had an unexpected, yet pleasant encounter with a coyote who decided to cross my path within ten feet. It was an amazing experience because the creature completely ignored me and went about its daily routine, oblivious to my presence. I snapped a few pictures and we both went our separate ways.
Yellowstone National Park is truly a magical place. Locals, like myself, find it irresistible to visit. Feel free to check out my Yellowstone National Park Pinterest board and you may agree with me…There is something for everyone in the family to do and see in The Park. You may not be able to be here in the springtime; but, no doubt, if you make plans to visit Yellowstone in the summer, fall, or even winter, then you will not be disappointed.
Todd Rivers, Founder, Montana Treasures
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