Yellowstone National Park (July 2009)
Exploring the Majesty of Yellowstone National Park
Date Visited: July 22–23, 2009
Adventure Type: National Park Road Trip
Entered From: South Entrance (via Grand Teton)
A Grand Arrival
After an unforgettable time in Grand Teton National Park, I drove north and entered Yellowstone through its South Entrance. Right from the gate, I was struck by the sheer size of the park — it was nearly 100 miles just to reach Old Faithful! That sense of vastness never left me. The scale of Yellowstone is awe-inspiring, and everywhere you look there’s something remarkable to discover.
Geysers, Lodges, and Landscapes
On the first day, I visited Old Faithful and watched it erupt from the original viewing point, surrounded by curious travelers from around the world. The geothermal features were mesmerizing — I toured the bubbling hot springs and wandered around the historic Yellowstone Lodge, soaking in both nature and history. One of the standout sights was the Upper and Lower Falls in the Yellowstone Valley. Their raw power and beauty left me speechless.
Even decades later, evidence of the 1988 fires could still be seen, a testament to the park’s resilience and its natural cycles of renewal.
Wildlife Encounters and Campfire Nights
I hiked across a serene meadow where I encountered buffalo casually strolling across the road, seemingly unbothered by the occasional car.
That night, I camped just outside the park in Colby, Wyoming, nestled in a beautiful canyon within the national forest. The cool air and canyon views made for a peaceful evening under the stars.
Northward to Mammoth and Beyond
On the second day, I headed to Mammoth Hot Springs and made a stop at what I believe was Painter’s Point — a scenic overlook with breathtaking panoramic views. From there, I continued through the Roosevelt area, exploring the lesser-seen northern side of the park. Eventually, I exited Yellowstone through the iconic original entrance, established in 1869, and crossed into Montana.
Reflections
This journey through Yellowstone was unforgettable. From the thundering waterfalls to steaming geysers, roaming wildlife, and historic landmarks, it truly felt like walking through a living postcard. I left with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of nature — and a burning desire to return.
Trip Photos
Looking for more adventures? Head back to the Adventures section to continue the journey.