Yellowstone 8/12/18 (Jackson Hole to Yellowstone)
This morning we split into two groups referred to as floaters and shoppers. The floaters, the majority of the group, signed up for the optional float trip down the Snake River; the shoppers had a free morning to relax or wander around Jackson Hole. We opted for the float trip.
We headed out in the bus, but then transferred to three vans towing our rafts. Our guide, Zach, drove us up river, where we doned our life vests. The rafts were launched and we climbed aboard, literally. Getting in and out of the raft was the hardest part of the trip. Zach, expertly guided the raft pointing out wildlife and scenery of interest. We just sat back and enjoyed the view and as we peacefully floated along. Although a little hazy, the trip provided the best view of the Grand Tetons. We also saw people fly fishing or at least trying the sport. Zach pointed several eagles And their nest, a mother and baby raccoon and some moose antlers. The raft ahead of us was delighted by having a moose at the waters edge, but by the time we floated by, he had wandered into the tall grass and we could only see the back of his head. We traveled about 10 miles downriver for about an hour and half before pulling into the same point where we transferred to the vans a few hours earlier.
We boarded the bus, crossed over the bridge for lunch at Dorman’s. Dorman’s offered a lot of options, but a little confusing when first approached. Several vendors had food and beer, but the beer must be consumed in that vendor’s licensed area. After surveying the choices, we opted for pizza, between the time we stood in line to order and the waiting for them to make the food, we could have used a little more time for lunch.
After lunch, we crossed back over the bridge to visit the Menor’s Ferry (visible from the end of our float trip) and Episcopal Chapel of Transfiguration, a very small structure which looks directly at the Tetons.
Back on the bus, we turned towards Yellowstone. We made a brief stop at the Jackson Lodge, which sits on the shore of Jackson Lake, before crossing into Yellowstone National Park. Just before arriving at our hotel, we were treated to bear sighting. Many cars were stopped on the side of the road, followed by park rangers trying to keep traffic moving. Tristan was able to pass by very slowing and I was lucky enough to capture a picture of the bear hidden mostly by a tree.
Tonight and tomorrow, we will stay at the Grant Village Lodge. The Lodge is a series of buildings with basic sleeping quarters. No AC, but an open window and small oscillating fan, cooled the room nicely. A small refrigator was provided, but no TV and no cell service. The lack of internet will delay blog postings.
Dining is available in a central building that also has a small bar, so small, it was called the Seven Stool Bar. We were provide with a dining time and dining partners allowing us to meet someone new in the tour group. We sat with a couple from Dallas, Tx and every ordered different appetizers which were shared by everyone. Entrees were good, but the serving size was too big as no on was able to finish.
With no TV or internet, it was easy to turn in early, hoping to be well rested for a full day of touring Yellowstone.
Pictures 8/12/18
We headed out in the bus, but then transferred to three vans towing our rafts. Our guide, Zach, drove us up river, where we doned our life vests. The rafts were launched and we climbed aboard, literally. Getting in and out of the raft was the hardest part of the trip. Zach, expertly guided the raft pointing out wildlife and scenery of interest. We just sat back and enjoyed the view and as we peacefully floated along. Although a little hazy, the trip provided the best view of the Grand Tetons. We also saw people fly fishing or at least trying the sport. Zach pointed several eagles And their nest, a mother and baby raccoon and some moose antlers. The raft ahead of us was delighted by having a moose at the waters edge, but by the time we floated by, he had wandered into the tall grass and we could only see the back of his head. We traveled about 10 miles downriver for about an hour and half before pulling into the same point where we transferred to the vans a few hours earlier.
We boarded the bus, crossed over the bridge for lunch at Dorman’s. Dorman’s offered a lot of options, but a little confusing when first approached. Several vendors had food and beer, but the beer must be consumed in that vendor’s licensed area. After surveying the choices, we opted for pizza, between the time we stood in line to order and the waiting for them to make the food, we could have used a little more time for lunch.
After lunch, we crossed back over the bridge to visit the Menor’s Ferry (visible from the end of our float trip) and Episcopal Chapel of Transfiguration, a very small structure which looks directly at the Tetons.
Back on the bus, we turned towards Yellowstone. We made a brief stop at the Jackson Lodge, which sits on the shore of Jackson Lake, before crossing into Yellowstone National Park. Just before arriving at our hotel, we were treated to bear sighting. Many cars were stopped on the side of the road, followed by park rangers trying to keep traffic moving. Tristan was able to pass by very slowing and I was lucky enough to capture a picture of the bear hidden mostly by a tree.
Tonight and tomorrow, we will stay at the Grant Village Lodge. The Lodge is a series of buildings with basic sleeping quarters. No AC, but an open window and small oscillating fan, cooled the room nicely. A small refrigator was provided, but no TV and no cell service. The lack of internet will delay blog postings.
Dining is available in a central building that also has a small bar, so small, it was called the Seven Stool Bar. We were provide with a dining time and dining partners allowing us to meet someone new in the tour group. We sat with a couple from Dallas, Tx and every ordered different appetizers which were shared by everyone. Entrees were good, but the serving size was too big as no on was able to finish.
With no TV or internet, it was easy to turn in early, hoping to be well rested for a full day of touring Yellowstone.
Pictures 8/12/18
You did get the bear!
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