Fort Yellowstone Historic District is part of the Mammoth Hot Springs area. The military was in charge of the park from 1886 to 1916 when Congress created the National Park Service. "Calling the Cavalry" walk began at the Albright Visitor Center which was the original bachelor officers quarters.
The tour was led by Ranger Annie, an enthusiastic young lady full of interesting information. She told us about the role the military played in protecting Yellowstone.
The buildings that were originally used by the army are now occupied by park employees.
As we walked along she described life back in the day. We were unable to take the usual path because elk decided to graze where she usually goes. So we had to see some of the buildings from a distance. As we were heading back to the visitor center the clouds that had been in the distance moved in quickly, the wind began to blow fiercely, and large rain drops slammed down on us. We, wimps that we are, ran for the car for protection while the ranger lowered the flag with the help of two brave folks. This view is from our car.
It was very interesting to learn about how the park was ruled back then. Just as today the military made great sacrifices for our country.
The next ranger walk we took was the Hot Springs Terrace Walk. Although we had walked this area on our own and I posted several pictures earlier in this blog, we thought it would be good to find out more information. The enthusiastic ranger did not disappoint. She passed out paint samples and had us try to find the colors around the terrace where we were standing. Ours was very easy.
It was amazing how many colors we found all around us. We discovered that this area began only four years ago.
This pretty little hot spring was not there in February and was discovered in the spring.
On our previous walk we did not see the Canary Spring which changes from year to year.
With guidance from the ranger we were able to use all our senses to experience more fully the beauty of Mammoth Hot Springs.
On our way to work is an area called Boiling River. Until last week there was a sign at the ranger station that is was closed due to high water. Since it finally opened we decided to take the trail and see it for ourselves. On the way we saw many beautiful wildflowers.
The path meandered alongside the river. It was lovely hearing the water and seeing it flow along.
The Boiling River is created by a massive hot spring discharge flowing into the Gardner River. The river doesn't "boil" but it gets comfortably warm for people to soak in like a hot tub. This is our first view of it.
We walked up to it and watched people wade and soak in the water.
It looked like fun. Maybe we'll come back with our swimsuits and take the plunge.
We are settled in the routine of the job and schedule. The weather has been quite nice lately - cool at night and warm during the day. I have adjusted to the absence of the employee dining room although I would prefer it to cooking! It's great to have this little city of Gardiner within walking distance. We really enjoy seeing and hearing the Yellowstone River behind the RV and watching rafters cruise by. Today we return to night shift (2:15 to 9:45) for five days and then two days off to explore the park.
No comments:
Post a Comment