Jackson Hole / Yellowstone Recap: Day 4

DAY 4 - 8/23 (Sunday): Despite the rock hard beds at Old Faithful Inn, we slept relatively well and were once again lazy at getting up when our alarm clock went off at 6:15 am. We packed up again and checked out of the room, then had breakfast at the fountain bar we’d dined at the night before. There’s nothing like greasy eggs, hash browns, and sausage to give you a morning burst of energy for the day. We semi-hiked around the geysers nearby before loading into the Kia and trekking to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. This was one of the most beautiful and memorable hikes we’ve done. We started near the Wapiti trail head and took the South Rim Hike to Artist’s Point. The beginning of the trail followed Yellowstone River before entering the canyon. I have to confess it was relatively barren and a part of me was extremely nervous of being attacked by a bear in the middle of nowhere. Nonetheless, we made it to our final destination and the views were absolutely breathtaking. We could’ve driven to Artist’s Point, one of the most photographed areas of the park; however, would’ve missed out on so much beauty along the way.




As a side, I would like to point out that I absolutely love my hiking boots. I've had them for 2 years and worn them quite often, but every time I put them on I'm more convinced that they're my favorite pair of shoes, completely beating out my cute flats and heels.


We stopped for MRE #3: chicken pesto pasta with tabasco, New England clam chowder, granola with blueberries and milk (just add water!), peanut M&M’s, and cherry blueberry cobbler. The anticipation of unveiling the contents in each brown plastic bag has become one of our most favorite surprises each day.

Post South Rim, we decided to hike Clear Lake, most of which would through a peaceful open meadow, complete with wildflowers and picturesque views of the mountains in the background. It sprinkled lightly on our way back, and the weather was noticeably cooler and cloudier compared to yesterday’s summer heat. I know K was praying for rain so we could test out our new rain gear he bought us from Whole Earth. I agree that it’s nice to be prepared, but had absolutely no desire to be required to don a waterproof suit in the middle of nowhere during a torrential downpour. Thankfully the storms held out.


We took a picture with my new favorite gadget: Joby Gorillapod. Those that know me know that I'm all about taking pictures on timer. This thing is a photo lovers dream for wilderness trips!



After a brief stop at mud volcano (complete with humorous buffalo interatction - i.e. husband and wife separation due to wildlife blocking the path - poor guy was waving to her as she stood staring angrily at him with hands on hips, waiting for buffalo to pass in hopes of a safe reunion), we made our way back to Jackson Hole.





No buffalo blocking the road unlike this morning (these beasts cause serious traffic jams), and we were even lucky enough to spot 2 wolves – one grey and one black – through a kind man’s telescope on the crest of Hayden Valley. It was incredible!! On top of that, we saw a MOOSE on the way back to the hotel on Moose-Wilson Rd.!! We had an amazing dinner at Trio in town, sat next to Frank from Dallas (oil and gas guru – small world), picked up a bottle of wine, and retired to our same urban studio at Hotel Terra – room 562.