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- Aug 21, 2018
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Apparently a book deal has been reached and there are rumors of a movie in the works, so I thought it wise to submit the second half of our story so that the editors have more material to work with. Perhaps they will get to the end and say meh, it's not worth their time and they will drop the project. ![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Day Three: Wednesday, September 14, 2022.
We left off at Joseph's Coat Hot Springs and campsite 4B1 at Broad Creek. Here is a picture to refresh your memories.
![0O7A1017.JPG 0O7A1017.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116159-20fc1023e751aea563aacec7018815f3.jpg)
I woke up to the sound of something I had been fortunate not to hear on my past September Yellowstone trips. . . rain.
I tend to wake up early on most mornings. I watched the rain drops roll off the tent for a while even though I was eager to get out and explore the Joseph's Coat area. I passed the time by packing up as much of my gear as I could. Here is what the scene looked like while I waited for a break in the rain.
![GP__0334.JPG GP__0334.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116160-170e1b22398d0b860bf1f4e25ed43554.jpg)
My impatience finally took over and I put on my rain gear. No one else was up and about yet so I started walking North from the campsite. The big camera stayed in the dry for most of the day, so the pictures that follow are either cell phone or GoPro images.
There is some distance between the campsite and the colorful stuff at Joseph's Coat. I walked passed Hugh's tent to make sure the bear did not come to visit him after gnawing some hide from the nearby carcass. No punctures in his tent so I took that as a positive.
Breaking thru the trees brings a familiar scene. Just more steamy and more selfie than before.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![GP__0339.JPG GP__0339.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116161-1dae2d53c17c75f72affc81f7e74a923.jpg)
I found a small paintbrush still in bloom. Yay flowers!
![GP__0341.JPG GP__0341.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116162-152f1253a523ae410c0cbf6b7315ff21.jpg)
The slope is steeper than it looks.
![GP__0342.JPG GP__0342.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116163-cc2a3fa8ab8d2189f598e243dc1ebb70.jpg)
A nice waterfall on Broad Creek. Normally I take pictures of everyone else. Because they were still sheltered in their tents you get me.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![GP__0346.JPG GP__0346.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116165-ef66ef3a470ccc65fced30a974c970de.jpg)
A similar view to our opening image. I wonder if that bank erosion on the lower left is from this year's heavy rains.
![Day Three -- 1.jpg Day Three -- 1.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116166-d7e6f6f21440c304dbc6f6f16e252dff.jpg)
I walked my way down to the level of Broad Creek. Once there I took a 360 video.
Several still shots from my morning walk.
Another cool waterfall.
![Day Three -- 2.jpg Day Three -- 2.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116167-f24394694be65f9e113fdbdc26213d6b.jpg)
These rocks look suspiciously hand placed, but the silt built up behind them makes me think it had to been done long ago.
![Day Three -- 3.jpg Day Three -- 3.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116168-7f04c0181408fca43e4dfa55f94f6d8b.jpg)
Areas of the ground were covered in these tiny pillar-like structures. I will call them Sulfur Castles.
![Day Three -- 4.jpg Day Three -- 4.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116169-a0be65b00e7a3569e3288e946fffd457.jpg)
A view looking West after I had walked down Broad Creek.
![Day Three -- 5.jpg Day Three -- 5.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116170-229ccb5a87c918f36c9bb4c1ccdf2fa2.jpg)
All sorts of interesting things covering the ground here.
![Day Three -- 7.jpg Day Three -- 7.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116172-e1ca799e55f9bcc4238a4169220c2c29.jpg)
Somehow I missed getting a still shot of the most active feature at Joseph's Coat: Spring Number 2. Fortunately, you get to see it in this next video.
I could have wandered around Joseph's Coat all day. In fact, I had wanted to walk a mile downstream to see the large waterfall on Broad Creek as it worked its way North. I knew I should get back to camp though to see what the others were up to, so that is what I did.
The rain let up just enough for us to have a dry breakfast and pack up our gear.
Breakfast of Participants. I'm not sure I qualify as Champion.![Wink ;) ;)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![Day Three -- 8.jpg Day Three -- 8.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116173-396eee2b7c8776fefaf529b53ff67610.jpg)
Just as we packed up the rain began to fall steadily. It would continue to do so for the majority of the day. A picture of our group as we were ready to head off.
![GP__0356.JPG GP__0356.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116179-38dbef614fce35be1e48f214667124b2.jpg)
You'll notice Patrick looking a bit plump in that previous photo. I put "pack cover" on the gear list I gave him during our trip preparations. Patrick, in typical Patrick fashion, thought outside the box and opted to utilize a poncho for this purpose. His choice of attire did function to keep him dry. It also had the unexpected benefit of keeping Hugh, Cody, and I entertained. How can one not smile while watching a round, blue man scramble thru the backcountry? From here on out Patrick would be known as "Poncho." It was either that or blueberry.![lol :lol: :lol:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Patrick, as well as the rest of us, would need every bit of protection that our rain gear could give today. Our goal was to travel from our campsite at Joseph's Coat to our next campsite, 4W2, at Wapiti Lake. In planning, Hugh decided our route should follow Broad Creek. That sounded simple enough. . . almost as if it would be an easy day. What we could not know was how many times we'd have to cross Broad Creek. . . as well as what the terrain would be like along the way. Only one way to find out!
The map below does not necessarily show our exact route, but it was the best I could do in my simple paint program.
![Broad Creek Map.png Broad Creek Map.png](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116187-34474e852ab73c777ed0600df54be68c.jpg)
Shortly after leaving Campsite 4B1. Morale is high as Hugh might say, even if Cody and Patrick's body language says otherwise.
![Day Three -- 9.jpg Day Three -- 9.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116174-341f93a420a9b62f5cb3254990b80933.jpg)
A look down on Broad Creek. Broad Creek has a tendency to meander from hillside to hillside as we worked up the little valley it lives in.
![Day Three -- 10.jpg Day Three -- 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116175-69e5f93a600d639bc930fb9c538ecc32.jpg)
The view just a short distance South of Campsite 4B1.
![GP__0357.JPG GP__0357.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116180-091a96ac3088d4e5d9b9a258414fb1bc.jpg)
Some areas were flat enough to allow walking in a straight line. Even when the rain would let up the wet grass would still try to soak our feet.
![Day Three -- 11.jpg Day Three -- 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116176-7f0f1bdec4fce71c557b5540bf283896.jpg)
Hugh ended up taking the lead for most of the day. Can you see his trail in this picture?
![GP__0360.JPG GP__0360.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116181-aa06f29e4af87029adf69cf300520253.jpg)
This picture reveals one of the reason's Hugh was so quick. Crossing Broad Creek would happen so frequently that we did not bother to change shoes. Instead, we would try to find a stable log to use as a bridge. Early on Hugh had a bit of a misstep and plunged his feet into the water. From here forward he would just splash across the creek crossings while Cody, Patrick, and I would take our time with the log crossings.
Hugh riding a log across Broad Creek. Yee-Haw!
![Day Three -- 12.jpg Day Three -- 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116177-4d30ede878fe290f84d242bb9f83cfe1.jpg)
Cody showing Hugh how it is done. He only has one pole because he let me use the other one.
![Day Three -- 13.jpg Day Three -- 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116178-51159d9ff249ab2c718a6c99754ccb75.jpg)
Poncho's Turn.
![Day Three -- 14.jpg Day Three -- 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116194-73d4b1eb5cac01f3a96990578527ae69.jpg)
I would try to follow Hugh's trail as best I could, then wait for Cody and Patrick. It is either raining here or my lens is smudged. Or both.
![GP__0361.JPG GP__0361.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116182-2dea23be1b2777333691f41270452312.jpg)
Many times Broad Creek cut right into a hillside and we had to walk the line between wet and dry. The line would be razor thin in some spots.
![GP__0364.JPG GP__0364.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116183-52fdfc01cdb2ffb739218fb200501277.jpg)
I think Poncho's feet were rather wet by this time.
![Day Three -- 15.jpg Day Three -- 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116195-ff1652a71f1baf2c313d068d998c121f.jpg)
More wet grasses to walk through. This may have been in the vicinity of old campsite 4B2. I do not believe the park service offers it as an option anymore.
![Day Three -- 16.jpg Day Three -- 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116196-0fddb106b9825653ebe54e4f14668f05.jpg)
More log bridges to cross.
![Day Three -- 17.jpg Day Three -- 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116197-3a2048df6e976d30c55c514393815fdc.jpg)
More of Broad Creek cutting right into a steep hillside.
![Day Three -- 18.jpg Day Three -- 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116198-f9146ab06d6cc4b5e2508f2a3f6b5946.jpg)
Patrick's feet were wet enough that he began taking Hugh's approach to crossing Broad Creek.
I know it is raining in this one.
![Day Three -- 19.jpg Day Three -- 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116199-6a61c11dd1cd8597db62b607b4701158.jpg)
One of my favorite parts of the hike up Broad Creek was crossing this steep, orange hillside. It was a long way down to the bottom should you trip up.
![Day Three -- 20.jpg Day Three -- 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116200-06496dc608a568f6eb5e8c489b95c0c0.jpg)
Hugh took the low road.
![Day Three -- 21.jpg Day Three -- 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116201-3512f72ec8f1f2e5052e27a348925241.jpg)
Cody and Patrick went high. I was somewhere in the middle. Wish I had taken some video here!
![Day Three -- 22.jpg Day Three -- 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116202-a3c8e362157a8f2acbe08e4516aa0d0a.jpg)
There were actually several orange hillsides, but none were as special as the first.
Following Hugh down the Banks of Broad Creek. The word that kept coming to mind as I watched his pack sway back and forth while he walked was "lumbering." That is what happens when one has to carry a heavy spoon.![Wink ;) ;)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![Day Three -- 23.jpg Day Three -- 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116203-676ed967db4efa96b806739d22647f75.jpg)
This was the spot where I gave in to Hugh and Patrick's creek crossing technique. No logs were available and I was too tired to continue looking upstream, so I did what any already saturated hiker would do and sloshed across. I did not realize how not wet my feet were before until I started walking after the crossing.
![Day Three -- 24.jpg Day Three -- 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116204-cbb1cf26135f67acd56b2f870c316f59.jpg)
As the valley began to open up Patrick and Cody were glad that the worst was behind us. Or was it?![Thinking :thinking: :thinking:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![Day Three -- 25.jpg Day Three -- 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116205-64f46791333b8629d05e2aa4e5b14402.jpg)
I took a quick side trip to check out campsite 4B3. You can still reserve this one, but I'd recommend approaching from the South.![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![Day Three -- 26.jpg Day Three -- 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116206-a853b4fd540e5c1fba4b502faa452e1f.jpg)
We caught up with Hugh and took this group photo. I believe it does a good job of displaying the day's saturation factor.
![GP__0369.JPG GP__0369.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116215-41726de120efc1f527be319017e0faa8.jpg)
The sun actually gave us a small window for a well-deserved snack break. Cody was still trying to hand out his energy bars, so I ate another one. Patrick avoided anything that resembled a burrito.
![Day Three -- 27.jpg Day Three -- 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116207-3834f3e74d4e592b1d6379c3dda3696e.jpg)
Hugh took a moment to be one with his surroundings and enjoy the view surrounding Broad Creek. It was here that he told us to move on ahead to the campsite at Wapiti Lake and that he would catch up. He said he did not want to hold us back (even though he led the way the entire day). I was not sure if Hugh's words were a command or a suggestion, but Cody, Patrick, and I were not taking any chances. I think he just wanted us to have the campfire going by the time he arrived at camp.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![Day Three -- 28.jpg Day Three -- 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116208-ea2d0d4216b7e315021588212f7de4d7.jpg)
Looking back down the Broad Creek Valley. Those ominous clouds would get into a shoving match with the sun. . . and the clouds would win.
![Day Three -- 29.jpg Day Three -- 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116209-e067fd926d0508f457d69c06784b0f62.jpg)
After leaving Broad Creek we started walking on official NPS trail. The first time in over a day!
![GP__0372.JPG GP__0372.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116216-d60657f95d8289d2549bc161213567a5.jpg)
The hike to Wapiti Lake climbs a hillside and provided a nice view down to the Broad Creek Valley.
![Day Three -- 30.jpg Day Three -- 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116210-bca4126ee6be6b96b84030f1c2591945.jpg)
Somewhere down there was a lonely Scatman, lumbering his way towards us.
![Day Three -- 31.jpg Day Three -- 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116211-95f4460ecd0766acde6d9014743c2f3f.jpg)
The hike up the hillside felt like a lot more work than it probably was. Wet, squishy boots did not help.
Our first views of fishless Wapiti Lake.
![Day Three -- 32.jpg Day Three -- 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116212-4b51269f7068c9b6f4eb814b3b31acd7.jpg)
Our campsite was up ahead on a little peninsula emerging from the right. Cody, Patrick, and I picked up our pace because the clouds looked like trouble.
![Day Three -- 33.jpg Day Three -- 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116213-8aa662dadae8e830f0aba0758439d165.jpg)
We arrived in camp just in time to get caught in a heavy rain shower. All we could do was stand under a dryish tree and wait.
![Day Three -- 34.jpg Day Three -- 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116214-28ec5f5382764fe41d53f208b03b8342.jpg)
As we waited Hugh arrived in camp. It was not long after that a break in the rain took place and we scurried to set up our tents. The rain held off long enough to allow the starting of a fire. This was my first Yellowstone backcountry fire -- normally Septembers have been too dry to risk burning down the park. A fire was definitely in order after today's events and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Except maybe Hugh. I can see he is struggling with his nemesis in this picture. . . every mouthful of his Chad Mendes Bison Mashers burned more calories lifting it from the bag than Hugh gained from eating it.![roflmao :roflmao: :roflmao:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![GP__0375.JPG GP__0375.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116218-100a49e1151565e3a4a16355073c9f7e.jpg)
No @Bob , we are not cooking our boots in this picture, we are simply trying to dry out some of the wetness.
The fire helped dry us out some, but it was going to take more than a little flame to bring back that warm and cozy feeling.
![GP__0377.JPG GP__0377.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116219-4e307b7edd789176b70a1106fb30831e.jpg)
We watched the fire until darkness was upon us. After putting out the flames we headed back to our tents with our semi-dry boots. Tomorrow would be a good day because camp was staying put so no rush to break things down in the morning. I fell asleep just as I had woken up -- to the sound of raindrops on my tent, but now I was tired enough not to care and slept thru the racket.
Day Four: Thursday September 15, 2022.
Thankfully the rain stopped sometime in the night. Just as day was breaking, I could hear something splashing around in the lake water. I was too comfortable in my tent to investigate. It could have been a water bird, a grizzly along the shore, or Hugh taking a morning swim. Some mysteries will never have an answer.
When I did roll out to greet the day I walked down to the lake shore. Early morning Wapiti Lake water provided some nice reflections for photographs.
![0O7A1025.JPG 0O7A1025.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116221-8b8b7d22c0f2410af8412721af675af2.jpg)
![0O7A1024.JPG 0O7A1024.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116220-ee513bc2e8319ced915d3ac679082842.jpg)
Wet tents at campsite 4W2.
![0O7A1029.JPG 0O7A1029.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116223-5609169f14535161f1cce40b5a2bfb38.jpg)
During breakfast a pleasant display of sun rays warmed our faces, but not our footwear.
![0O7A1034.JPG 0O7A1034.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116224-ac4c916b90aa56cb6c960a586034bf60.jpg)
While filtering water I took a minute to represent Backcountry Post at Wapiti Lake.
![0O7A1038.JPG 0O7A1038.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116225-3b864628a2549f3d29de7b0b6d881400.jpg)
A quick tour of camp. Hugh chose the spot furthest from the lake shore on the peninsula. I have to assume that it was the flattest spot.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0O7A1041.JPG 0O7A1041.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116228-6cdf463a028012935044d4bddd8881ba.jpg)
Cody and Patrick, probably arguing about who's boots where the wettest.
![0O7A1039.JPG 0O7A1039.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116226-cb855bfbff671da2da947d8bb572f007.jpg)
Patrick taking a moment to admire his "Pownching." Some sort of Awning/Poncho hybridization.
![0O7A1040.JPG 0O7A1040.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116227-d8f6a0288b65b7ee1bb48d0f0eb1cda7.jpg)
We could have easily enjoyed a leisurely morning relaxing at our campsite by the shores of Wapiti Lake. . . but that is not how Hugh and I roll. We planned a lolli-pop loop day hike to the Hot Springs Basin. We had originally intended to make the trip all the way up to Rainbow Springs but decided to save that destination for another day. Hot Springs Basin would be enough.
Once again, this map shows a rough outline of our route. Simple paint program and all.![Wink ;) ;)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![HotSpringsBasinMap.jpg HotSpringsBasinMap.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116230-f43c7ccf2f228e10c4412b4381043bdd.jpg)
Our route started by following the Wapiti Lake Trail North a short distance. Hugh told us to take a left thru the trees after a short distance, which he did.
![0O7A1043.JPG 0O7A1043.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116231-ab797d3ef8a2df19c70ce89577e988e2.jpg)
Cody, Patrick and I must have taken the trail a little too far and we had to navigate thru some of this before finding Hugh and the meadow on the other side.
![0O7A1045.JPG 0O7A1045.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116232-4fcda7e95b2f6fec2b26f1d9bb122e88.jpg)
Once out of the trees we walked the meadows lining Shallow Creek.
![0O7A1046.JPG 0O7A1046.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116233-58673f469c4d7c2d28eb5a37975f357d.jpg)
Looking back towards where Shallow Creek meets Wapiti Lake.
![0O7A1047.JPG 0O7A1047.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116234-1091b737ce002982ee0346cf2b147bea.jpg)
Hugh patiently waiting on us up ahead. He is standing just to the right of center. I wondered if he had brought the spoon along for the day hike, but I did not dare ask.
![0O7A1048.JPG 0O7A1048.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116235-9c257b406f3073f0484effbd04d13c11.jpg)
Our path forward.
![0O7A1049.JPG 0O7A1049.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116236-83775f19125860d9d387bb679b9574e5.jpg)
We stirred up a group of Sandhill Cranes as we walked and they provided us with a noisy flyover.
![0O7A1052.JPG 0O7A1052.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116237-b8e097553f30b8b3cd11a773ba8f64a7.jpg)
Thermal features began to line the banks of Shallow Creek rather quickly.
![0O7A1058.JPG 0O7A1058.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116238-b7c6e0fbbf4fddaf6a50fc85c875b711.jpg)
![0O7A1061.JPG 0O7A1061.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116239-bf3a42addf4b8267866076c9d52ee942.jpg)
Patrick, getting the shot.
![0O7A1062.JPG 0O7A1062.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116240-394d572216ad94aeb371f8fe08242f9c.jpg)
![0O7A1064.JPG 0O7A1064.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116241-4e64889c0800d5d3fc9b93bcf15ab3fe.jpg)
Heading downstream.
![0O7A1067.JPG 0O7A1067.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116242-3d3d4300f6b8cb852b3d2ff6770cd7ec.jpg)
Looking downstream.
![0O7A1069.JPG 0O7A1069.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116243-046599271a2c1695c530dfed0e7f1a53.jpg)
Hugh kept reminiscing about a bison skull he saw in the area years ago. I was able to capture the reunion.
![0O7A1070.JPG 0O7A1070.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116244-ea4b049a8cabb8020cf0395177cd4c5b.jpg)
I found these barber pole trees fascinating.
![0O7A1078.JPG 0O7A1078.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116247-f212a8ad211788d089a8eb6c698993f1.jpg)
Nice waterfall on Shallow Creek.
![0O7A1084.JPG 0O7A1084.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116248-87794a93d7a142d94a5bd2ef0a882265.jpg)
North of the waterfall the ground begins to get more thermally.
![0O7A1087.JPG 0O7A1087.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116249-1cd9fadd1502fc005939b986f6a1a69f.jpg)
Look at Hugh go! He must have left the spoon back at camp.
![0O7A1091.JPG 0O7A1091.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116250-7e274af0d488a528ab4826d142cf6826.jpg)
We would walk up the little hill in front of Hugh in the last picture and cut thru a small cluster of trees to this view.
![0O7A1101.JPG 0O7A1101.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116251-e9847dd5959bce387cf55b7c80733ee9.jpg)
And this.![0O7A1103.JPG 0O7A1103.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116253-457fcf794e29013ab7cbf1210a726197.jpg)
And this.![Day Four -- 1.jpg Day Four -- 1.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116262-70bd0ae1f549ed3b43ee4aa380c6706e.jpg)
A ginormous hole in the earth was one of the first things that greeted us.
![0O7A1102.JPG 0O7A1102.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116252-916dfb05e0e9cce57bd50a262cbec099.jpg)
A look down inside.
![0O7A1104.JPG 0O7A1104.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116254-6bf07236fb6bbb40bc4057ab6003296c.jpg)
Hot Springs Basin covers a very large area. I would go so far as to say that it might cover an area as large as the Upper Geyser Basin. It may not contain the spritzy geysers for which Upper Geyser Basin deservedly gets attention, but it does contain a significant number of hot springs and mud pots I've not seen in similar numbers anywhere else in Yellowstone. At least not as of yet.![Wink ;) ;)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
What will follow will be a lot of pictures from Hot Springs Basin. I'll keep the comments to a minimum. . . unless I cannot help myself. We only covered a portion of the basin during our day's exploration. . . I would not mind making a return trip to see what we missed.
![0O7A1119.JPG 0O7A1119.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116256-ab771dc3ee9f1577471786d1d04adbbe.jpg)
![0O7A1122.JPG 0O7A1122.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116257-4bb67a4e1142db216da418423bdf25fc.jpg)
![0O7A1107.JPG 0O7A1107.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116255-94c91e4851e4cc4d26ce0bb3738f0efd.jpg)
![0O7A1124.JPG 0O7A1124.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116259-c8ae33dde8ab763ce07b1f5097ec163b.jpg)
![0O7A1123.JPG 0O7A1123.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116258-1493a3470f0d20d15bc3e981fe3d2abf.jpg)
![0O7A1125.JPG 0O7A1125.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116260-cfcef7fb6e3a2668c48dc999b6f0d047.jpg)
![0O7A1127.JPG 0O7A1127.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116261-3a473046eaba0034fb9fe5e320c8a0b2.jpg)
![Day Four -- 2.jpg Day Four -- 2.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116263-18b94e26d1daa1ff27b6cde7eb18c539.jpg)
No lie, Patrick was actually communicating with people back home in this area. We actually had cell service in most locations -- I was able to call home at least once a day. The carrier is AT+T for the curious.
![0O7A1130.JPG 0O7A1130.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116265-0c297336f306e129e5bd1c6d5aef6f8f.jpg)
![0O7A1133.JPG 0O7A1133.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116266-aa959ea3ab2fb0c3059af752f71fb2c6.jpg)
These little sulfur stacks covered the ground in many areas.
![0O7A1134.JPG 0O7A1134.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116267-ffcb90fe2c606bd4f3b00f070dd5a947.jpg)
Interesting Mud Pot with a milky surface but dark gray bubbles.
![0O7A1140.JPG 0O7A1140.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116269-5db22c185c332e9301971a25f631c21c.jpg)
Water marks on the ground/down wood suggest this area would look very different in June or July.
![0O7A1142.JPG 0O7A1142.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116270-6fdb41188ec4cbb2b8df05500ad6957b.jpg)
Reminds me of a cracked egg.
![0O7A1143.JPG 0O7A1143.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116271-277d300e7597ece53db459c2a3b78436.jpg)
![0O7A1147.JPG 0O7A1147.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116272-7330658534aae04bd1061da834571568.jpg)
![0O7A1148.JPG 0O7A1148.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116273-7ae65b7f3a4aff1ad7afb61b7f666587.jpg)
Hurdling trees while touring the basin.
![0O7A1152.JPG 0O7A1152.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116275-3faf300094c87fc4f14f4b62fabff238.jpg)
I love a good mud pot. Hot Springs Basin is full of them.
![0O7A1155.JPG 0O7A1155.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116276-f1c789853aa04102a9f4c92ad5de97ba.jpg)
![0O7A1156.JPG 0O7A1156.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116277-13ac35fa3cd76e9f4fdef19a953dfeb4.jpg)
So many colors. . .
![0O7A1160.JPG 0O7A1160.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116278-76d0f8fb51b6214758df8eab17492185.jpg)
And Textures. . .
![0O7A1168.JPG 0O7A1168.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116279-8aae2d93452decfcc9be639e48a8c19e.jpg)
Even the down wood has character here.
![0O7A1172.JPG 0O7A1172.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116280-aacb8917555b133e1a7edc69e697277b.jpg)
![0O7A1174.JPG 0O7A1174.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116281-f44a36959e586affaf29e37e4a40ea7d.jpg)
![Day Four -- 3.jpg Day Four -- 3.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116264-9f1020beebaa4458b2d812b4c965f794.jpg)
![0O7A1175.JPG 0O7A1175.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116282-76bb7d50719804ae150c59831147d66f.jpg)
Cody for scale.
![0O7A1176.JPG 0O7A1176.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116283-8e6c3de506281a929a3e5cb52385d66b.jpg)
![0O7A1177.JPG 0O7A1177.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116284-888633f3fbcd574cf4dd3b2cad74e91d.jpg)
Patrick is wondering who lined up all those rocks.
![0O7A1185.JPG 0O7A1185.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116285-637497ade3ffb897deac3a7b178bc28a.jpg)
![0O7A1204.JPG 0O7A1204.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116286-accb8b9f1bb411fa471aa0732b53595a.jpg)
![0O7A1207.JPG 0O7A1207.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116287-0142a23fffac38f844a48b81f9c7bc96.jpg)
We turned a corner and for a moment I thought I was in canyon country.
![0O7A1211.JPG 0O7A1211.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116288-2ff7af41fe560a69f24a6b8fcf32e815.jpg)
Canyon Country in miniature, that is. Hands down this was my favorite feature/visual of the entire day.
![0O7A1212.JPG 0O7A1212.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116289-0ae1df4cd9be25579ccf080c5355f916.jpg)
![GP__0389.JPG GP__0389.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116296-59e2993bfedd13d805c49016e2a15b8f.jpg)
![0O7A1216.JPG 0O7A1216.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116290-c6d614f43d9af05b8614bf27d168cec6.jpg)
![0O7A1218.JPG 0O7A1218.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116291-ba56920036cf25dca364b30f585561c4.jpg)
![0O7A1219.JPG 0O7A1219.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116292-fc7bad366c0e110f4321135bc9c52542.jpg)
![0O7A1222.JPG 0O7A1222.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116293-1567696ba95b49118ecacec4fadbb3e9.jpg)
In case you were counting, I brought three picture taking devices with me on this trip.
1. Big Camera:
![0O7A1223.JPG 0O7A1223.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116294-699a9200bd0406c5c413769df1adffbe.jpg)
#2. Cell Phone.
![Day Four -- 4.jpg Day Four -- 4.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116295-6005690dbffdcffcc5d47aa5e2580530.jpg)
#3. GoPro.
![GP__0392.JPG GP__0392.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116297-b9292c8b1b92372c6b5859f3fe10b762.jpg)
I'll understand if you skip ahead past all the thermal pictures.
Just a couple more. . .
Another lively mud pot.
![0O7A1227.JPG 0O7A1227.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116298-6a37afbc05e199375c56def01c6b5b61.jpg)
![Day Four -- 5.jpg Day Four -- 5.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116311-d9df9c196855baefd5db780c39f2da76.jpg)
Hugh was starting to get a little hungry and I failed to pack him some extra snacks, so he had to resort to what nature could provide.
![Day Four -- 7.jpg Day Four -- 7.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116319-84c19de8f182f5a849e4f45b868c2226.jpg)
Eventually we wandered our way to one of the main stretches of Hot Springs Basin.
![0O7A1241.JPG 0O7A1241.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116301-619f1b23679fd607f4e5d064cb014673.jpg)
![0O7A1244.JPG 0O7A1244.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116302-d3c28f78dd564c6bf99521b6f9f456e6.jpg)
![0O7A1245.JPG 0O7A1245.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116303-553c53ebf557db3ff7c45f0ac382e88f.jpg)
I wandered off while Hugh, Cody, and Patrick took a rest. Can you find them?
![0O7A1247.JPG 0O7A1247.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116304-ed71ee88627d66662648333f30e022e6.jpg)
How about now?![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0O7A1248.JPG 0O7A1248.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116305-8b372f495adb3f2788df0e3833e11050.jpg)
I walked a hillside ridge to view the thermal awesomeness below.
![0O7A1249.JPG 0O7A1249.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116306-56f35ea0137df29274efa0ee1f1d3dae.jpg)
Looking downstream on Shallow Creek. We have almost closed our loop. Fumaroles are fun.![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0O7A1253.JPG 0O7A1253.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116308-aabd5aefd30f6ff08ab07abad0e41d9f.jpg)
I spied with my little eye what I thought was a small geyser erupting. Could have easily been a perpetual spouter too.
![0O7A1279.JPG 0O7A1279.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116309-19ae739e814980717bbb0aae6ab8c1fd.jpg)
Features encountered on the way back to Shallow Creek.
![0O7A1291.JPG 0O7A1291.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116312-fa7246f69319b8c517205c04fa542865.jpg)
![0O7A1297.JPG 0O7A1297.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116313-6571bb124221df867bd2f6f0e7da8f66.jpg)
![0O7A1301.JPG 0O7A1301.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116314-182aff3c080de7213717df9524b262cb.jpg)
![0O7A1304.JPG 0O7A1304.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116315-d0a2074352e9036489999fc1bfcb351c.jpg)
![0O7A1313.JPG 0O7A1313.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116316-04ed69e62d53e64f6f7e3caee9f9d439.jpg)
![0O7A1316.JPG 0O7A1316.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116317-a95532dbf466c294e6265979fcf4a52c.jpg)
![0O7A1323.JPG 0O7A1323.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116318-b23fdeecf208276386a0fac1796f209f.jpg)
Consider me impressed if you made it through all those pictures. If they somehow left you wanting more here is a short collection of Hot Springs Basin video clips.
All good day hikes must come to an end; when we reached Shallow Creek we followed it back to our campsite at Wapiti Lake. The clouds were beginning to thicken once more and sure enough rain would grace us with its presence, but not before we started another fire and celebrated a beautiful day spent in the backcountry before heading to our tents.
I took three pictures of this scene -- Hugh's position/facial expression never changed. That is Scatman at his happiest in case you were wondering.![Scatman :scatman: :scatman:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![GP__0404.JPG GP__0404.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116320-0842b4f5c7810ff6ef6ff7f5d305ddb4.jpg)
Day Five: Friday September 16, 2022
Today was the day we would be hiking back to the trailhead and civilization. There was 16+ miles between us and a shower, proper hot food, and a beer. We more or less followed the official NPS trail the full distance so I will not bother posting a map, but I can tell you we covered 16.6 miles over seven hours and forty minutes.
Hugh was up early this morning. In fact we all were. We knew there were restrictions on what times we were allowed in Pelican Valley, so we wanted to be punctual with our exit. After Hugh ate his breakfast, he began the long walk back to the car while the rest of us finished tidying up camp. We figured we'd catch him in a mile or so.
Cody, Patrick, and I just as we were leaving campsite 4W2. The day started out overcast, but dry.
![GP__0407.JPG GP__0407.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116337-6c5f84213113577c8e4fc8b24074ddb7.jpg)
We had to follow the trail North before making a 180 degree turn to then start heading South. It makes more sense when you are hiking that vs. when you are reading it.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
A lot of down fall along this part of the trail. I am glad we did not have to climb over most of it.
![0O7A1331.JPG 0O7A1331.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116324-9dc30d2352d66cf175cf07db1af0c750.jpg)
Still there were some obstacles.
![0O7A1332.JPG 0O7A1332.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116325-fbde214336857f394bc0329428f7c49c.jpg)
Some more alive than others.
![0O7A1348.JPG 0O7A1348.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116332-2dd54213e10ca11f95dc593e117c9727.jpg)
We climbed into the thin barrier of trees along the side of the trail to let the behemoth pass.
![0O7A1349.JPG 0O7A1349.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116333-1bd4fd73ab2474c82d09bd5f8a20f246.jpg)
![0O7A1350.JPG 0O7A1350.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116334-506229212488640cbe903331087e50cf.jpg)
Open views of the upper reaches of Pelican Valley.
![0O7A1334.JPG 0O7A1334.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116326-4dcd0524c701cf3650c37c390a4d3bd2.jpg)
![0O7A1336.JPG 0O7A1336.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116327-e82a7db41daa15e305e4ee1d3d0f84cc.jpg)
Beginnings of Pelican Creek.
![0O7A1339.JPG 0O7A1339.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116328-b8375bc99438479ee52bc9f937d5a30e.jpg)
Our first crossing of Pelican Creek. That bridge is spoiling us.
![0O7A1340.JPG 0O7A1340.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116329-b99e303618a00d15ff25d17280ca8041.jpg)
Our trail would alternate between woods and open views.
![0O7A1342.JPG 0O7A1342.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116330-b39c585f643006deb88815bc3407f38f.jpg)
Doubt this is how they met their fate.
![0O7A1346.JPG 0O7A1346.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116331-4601365ec1eee54a86dbc864edda8e5e.jpg)
Quite the view.
![0O7A1354.JPG 0O7A1354.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116335-aaf2da03d7f1cae6e8926f4df321330a.jpg)
We were walking at a rather good pace and were a bit surprised we had not caught up with Hugh. We would see one of his footprints now and again, and there was no blood so we knew he was ok.
![0O7A1356.JPG 0O7A1356.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116336-2bd05378cc25346db08a8bbe23e38fd6.jpg)
![0O7A1357.JPG 0O7A1357.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116338-743c744788f3079a92b1559c9f7c637e.jpg)
Its the Pelican Creek Trail for us.
![0O7A1359.JPG 0O7A1359.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116339-85c505415b585395089aee702e357392.jpg)
One of the reasons I wanted to take the Pelican Creek Trail is because it travels nearby what I'm calling the "Pelican Valley Mud Volcano." We could see large clouds of steam and then could begin to hear it -- a short off trail jaunt is required to see it.
Steam thru the trees. Sort of blends in with the clouds.
![0O7A1362.JPG 0O7A1362.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116340-7d4b653b6f7a25f4c20b1f31aa8b084d.jpg)
The mud volcano was magnificent. I could have spent an hour or better here, but instead took advantage of 20 minutes or so to take a lot of pictures.
Note Cody for scale.
![0O7A1365.JPG 0O7A1365.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116341-1a9e82efa593fdc61071acdff4338ef8.jpg)
![0O7A1382.JPG 0O7A1382.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116342-800e50163ce0329a9efa3e8ea2ce3fe9.jpg)
![0O7A1384.JPG 0O7A1384.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116343-e44ff73f79624f9af974ff3aa1f65426.jpg)
![0O7A1398.JPG 0O7A1398.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116344-8e922fe4a723e0f1f1eac643521536b9.jpg)
![0O7A1401.JPG 0O7A1401.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116345-17c2aa902f8206d37c7689924bd99438.jpg)
![0O7A1403.JPG 0O7A1403.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116346-dbe23718c08be24ab0f53a20f7278399.jpg)
I had been thinking about this day and this moment for weeks before our trip, and I was not disappointed. Patrick's turn to take a look.
![0O7A1419.JPG 0O7A1419.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116347-98846c729dc89880e219d606b3fe58cf.jpg)
Video of Splashing Mud:
We left the Mud Volcano behind -- we thought we might see Hugh there but apparently he just kept on trucking.
Continuing South brought us to a more substantial crossing of Pelican Creek.
![0O7A1422.JPG 0O7A1422.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116348-4b4adb2708ba82a5380c8dc2e2e13ae8.jpg)
![0O7A1423.JPG 0O7A1423.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116349-b0c6e88d73b0e30efb0bc6c4fcc6a0e5.jpg)
We put our rain gear on here as the drops were beginning to fall. Temperatures were feeling a cooler as well.
![0O7A1424.JPG 0O7A1424.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116350-0d9a3d4319611661ff39009703a4f7b9.jpg)
Several more bison had to be dealt with. Can you see the hikers among the trees?
![0O7A1429.JPG 0O7A1429.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116351-7a9d1b9fd53552e662aa8e365025d20b.jpg)
These two bison gave us the most trouble. You might notice the trail leads right to them.
![0O7A1436.JPG 0O7A1436.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116352-7b6251d96ee09ee1445f25ee7445d531.jpg)
Actually it was just the bison on the right that we had an issue with. As we walked around them -- giving them plenty of space -- this fella decided he was going to walk along with us. We ended up having a slow race between man and bison to the hill in front of us.
![0O7A1439.JPG 0O7A1439.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116353-01bb856e271d29ea5b56425d4cb84ccc.jpg)
Pulling slightly ahead of the bison.
![0O7A1440.JPG 0O7A1440.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116354-333fd7d25ead0a7728e295779a4e9811.jpg)
Once we were up and over yhe small hill the bison continued to follow us. The best we can figure is that he was attracted to Poncho's lovely blue hump and was trying to get a closer look.![Heart Eyes :heart_eyes: :heart_eyes:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0O7A1441.JPG 0O7A1441.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116355-93ab93ad1ebc3f93499a1371765c2ada.jpg)
The mid-upper sections of Pelican Valley were filled with thermal features. Normally I'd investigate such areas, but I knew the clock was ticking and the rain/cold was starting to get annoying, so we kept moving.
![Day Five -- 8.jpg Day Five -- 8.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116360-d5bc245221083a6437aa2213f2c6cbad.jpg)
![0O7A1442.JPG 0O7A1442.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116356-f369b074c8c70471c1e151745281d77b.jpg)
Our race with the bison may have taken us off the proper trail for a stint. We were now faced with crossing a mucky portion around Pelican Creek.
![0O7A1443.JPG 0O7A1443.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116357-70b58ecd7bc1dfb68d347d312f0e10b0.jpg)
To make things even more interesting the terrain was dotted with numerous little thermal vents. I was not losing a foot to boiling ground on this day!
![0O7A1444.JPG 0O7A1444.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116361-cba5884384d32b385a9669bd742ffb22.jpg)
Our feet and legs were thoroughly soaked by this time.
![0O7A1445.JPG 0O7A1445.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116362-887a4619f43a01fb4878ecf2a280e748.jpg)
See?
![0O7A1446.JPG 0O7A1446.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116363-a8b56b2628325e64ea20ac4a19829d79.jpg)
Who knew a poncho could generate so much lift?
![Day Five -- 9.jpg Day Five -- 9.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116378-1c8aec337604663b71536e5939ca2227.jpg)
When the rain would fall in more significant amounts we would try to take shelter under a large tree. I was able to get a couple pictures of thermal stuff during those times.
The Mushpots? or The Mudkettles?
![0O7A1449.JPG 0O7A1449.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116364-67f5ce4d90b8f5ffd0f508c86d5c70c0.jpg)
Pretty Colors.
![0O7A1450.JPG 0O7A1450.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116365-5a1afcc2bf72dea90a5f05e147c31d97.jpg)
![0O7A1451.JPG 0O7A1451.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116366-1e5846a6cc3d3fbf98ee2cae816dddaa.jpg)
We were starting to notice a lot of tracks along our trail. These in particular had the blood pumping a bit.
![0O7A1458.JPG 0O7A1458.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116367-d9e6a9ccc6309f7d42bf2e17f79de9bf.jpg)
![0O7A1459.JPG 0O7A1459.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116368-0c2911ce3eb92a9f62703ef4403cadb2.jpg)
I had my hand on the bear spray as we climbed each hill and turned each corner. Never had a need to use it though.![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Pelican Valley would begin to open up in front of and below us. We were past halfway!
![0O7A1460.JPG 0O7A1460.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116369-30858b2a11392eaa246718a9aeab1aec.jpg)
As we dropped down into the valley the largest herd of bison I've seen in Yellowstone was in the distance in front of us.
![0O7A1463.JPG 0O7A1463.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116370-8ff70fc979431503467570a48c604e4c.jpg)
I would later learn that Hugh was almost trampled by those bison.![Er... what? o_O o_O](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
The next number of miles were tough. I more or less put the cameras away and focused on the walk ahead. I was wet and starting to feel some tingles in my fingers from the cold. I did not want to stop and put another layer on and neither did Cody or Patrick, so we just kept walking. The trail was beginning to fill with water and it was easier to walk along side it than on it.
The only bright spot was that we finally caught a glimpse of Hugh. We could see his pack cover lumbering about way off in the distance. Mosey mode my a**. We knew at that moment that Hugh had been holding out on us and had a higher hiking gear to be that far ahead.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Eventually we reached a trail marker.
![0O7A1467.JPG 0O7A1467.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116371-d5bfe727774142231d6b396f4a7efa36.jpg)
And then what was left of Pelican Creek Bridge.
![0O7A1468.JPG 0O7A1468.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116372-f587057dbedc8ec5eade86f3ccd8948d.jpg)
I was in a bit of zombie mode when it came time to cross Pelican Creek and just sloshed thru the water. Cody and Patrick did the same. Once past the bridge there was another three plus miles to the trailhead. One foot in front of the other. Just. Keep. Walking.
I'd been watching the trail ahead and I could see Hugh in front of me. I made it my mission to catch him before reaching the trailhead, so I dug deep, picked up the pace, and was able to catch up with the legend with about a mile to go.
Catching up with Scatman.
![0O7A1471.JPG 0O7A1471.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116373-32ab06f1e9a3853d63dc0e315c39926c.jpg)
Patrick and Cody would catch up too. A look back at the three of them and our lovely trail conditions. I wonder what Patrick is thinking at this moment? Maybe "I sure hope Dave has the car keys."![Thinking :thinking: :thinking:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![0O7A1472.JPG 0O7A1472.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116374-752d37a3c7fd07b497667c4cbb2bbd3e.jpg)
I arrived at the trailhead exhausted yet fulfilled.
A picture of the trailhead marker.
![0O7A1474.JPG 0O7A1474.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116375-b93c1902016c6e5d7cf2e3d2c40854fa.jpg)
Victory Group Shot.
![0O7A1476.JPG 0O7A1476.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116376-b68da8730717ef2ff6e358a3225ee3c2.jpg)
We would make the drive up to Canyon and more or less trash the cabin I had rented us for the night. Don't worry, I left housekeeping a nice tip.![Wink ;) ;)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
I will have more commentary in some posts to follow, but I've been at this report for a good while and want to get it posted before my computer crashes and I lose it all. I'll also go back and edit any of my spelling or grammar errors as needed.
In summary I want to say that I'm proud of Cody and Patrick for how they handled themselves on this crazy experience, and that I grateful to have Hugh as a friend to think up these crazy adventures with. Yellowstone 2022 would not have been the same without any of you. The good times, the bad times, the wet times, and the heavy times. . . touring the wilderness with you guys has been one of the highlights of my year.![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Thanks again for reading along!
Day Three: Wednesday, September 14, 2022.
We left off at Joseph's Coat Hot Springs and campsite 4B1 at Broad Creek. Here is a picture to refresh your memories.
![0O7A1017.JPG 0O7A1017.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116159-20fc1023e751aea563aacec7018815f3.jpg)
I woke up to the sound of something I had been fortunate not to hear on my past September Yellowstone trips. . . rain.
I tend to wake up early on most mornings. I watched the rain drops roll off the tent for a while even though I was eager to get out and explore the Joseph's Coat area. I passed the time by packing up as much of my gear as I could. Here is what the scene looked like while I waited for a break in the rain.
![GP__0334.JPG GP__0334.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116160-170e1b22398d0b860bf1f4e25ed43554.jpg)
My impatience finally took over and I put on my rain gear. No one else was up and about yet so I started walking North from the campsite. The big camera stayed in the dry for most of the day, so the pictures that follow are either cell phone or GoPro images.
There is some distance between the campsite and the colorful stuff at Joseph's Coat. I walked passed Hugh's tent to make sure the bear did not come to visit him after gnawing some hide from the nearby carcass. No punctures in his tent so I took that as a positive.
Breaking thru the trees brings a familiar scene. Just more steamy and more selfie than before.
![GP__0339.JPG GP__0339.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116161-1dae2d53c17c75f72affc81f7e74a923.jpg)
I found a small paintbrush still in bloom. Yay flowers!
![GP__0341.JPG GP__0341.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116162-152f1253a523ae410c0cbf6b7315ff21.jpg)
The slope is steeper than it looks.
![GP__0342.JPG GP__0342.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116163-cc2a3fa8ab8d2189f598e243dc1ebb70.jpg)
A nice waterfall on Broad Creek. Normally I take pictures of everyone else. Because they were still sheltered in their tents you get me.
![GP__0346.JPG GP__0346.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116165-ef66ef3a470ccc65fced30a974c970de.jpg)
A similar view to our opening image. I wonder if that bank erosion on the lower left is from this year's heavy rains.
![Day Three -- 1.jpg Day Three -- 1.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116166-d7e6f6f21440c304dbc6f6f16e252dff.jpg)
I walked my way down to the level of Broad Creek. Once there I took a 360 video.
Several still shots from my morning walk.
Another cool waterfall.
![Day Three -- 2.jpg Day Three -- 2.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116167-f24394694be65f9e113fdbdc26213d6b.jpg)
These rocks look suspiciously hand placed, but the silt built up behind them makes me think it had to been done long ago.
![Day Three -- 3.jpg Day Three -- 3.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116168-7f04c0181408fca43e4dfa55f94f6d8b.jpg)
Areas of the ground were covered in these tiny pillar-like structures. I will call them Sulfur Castles.
![Day Three -- 4.jpg Day Three -- 4.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116169-a0be65b00e7a3569e3288e946fffd457.jpg)
A view looking West after I had walked down Broad Creek.
![Day Three -- 5.jpg Day Three -- 5.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116170-229ccb5a87c918f36c9bb4c1ccdf2fa2.jpg)
All sorts of interesting things covering the ground here.
![Day Three -- 6.jpg Day Three -- 6.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116171-324839119e397d494621dbf9be836e15.jpg)
![Day Three -- 7.jpg Day Three -- 7.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116172-e1ca799e55f9bcc4238a4169220c2c29.jpg)
Somehow I missed getting a still shot of the most active feature at Joseph's Coat: Spring Number 2. Fortunately, you get to see it in this next video.
I could have wandered around Joseph's Coat all day. In fact, I had wanted to walk a mile downstream to see the large waterfall on Broad Creek as it worked its way North. I knew I should get back to camp though to see what the others were up to, so that is what I did.
The rain let up just enough for us to have a dry breakfast and pack up our gear.
Breakfast of Participants. I'm not sure I qualify as Champion.
![Day Three -- 8.jpg Day Three -- 8.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116173-396eee2b7c8776fefaf529b53ff67610.jpg)
Just as we packed up the rain began to fall steadily. It would continue to do so for the majority of the day. A picture of our group as we were ready to head off.
![GP__0356.JPG GP__0356.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116179-38dbef614fce35be1e48f214667124b2.jpg)
You'll notice Patrick looking a bit plump in that previous photo. I put "pack cover" on the gear list I gave him during our trip preparations. Patrick, in typical Patrick fashion, thought outside the box and opted to utilize a poncho for this purpose. His choice of attire did function to keep him dry. It also had the unexpected benefit of keeping Hugh, Cody, and I entertained. How can one not smile while watching a round, blue man scramble thru the backcountry? From here on out Patrick would be known as "Poncho." It was either that or blueberry.
Patrick, as well as the rest of us, would need every bit of protection that our rain gear could give today. Our goal was to travel from our campsite at Joseph's Coat to our next campsite, 4W2, at Wapiti Lake. In planning, Hugh decided our route should follow Broad Creek. That sounded simple enough. . . almost as if it would be an easy day. What we could not know was how many times we'd have to cross Broad Creek. . . as well as what the terrain would be like along the way. Only one way to find out!
The map below does not necessarily show our exact route, but it was the best I could do in my simple paint program.
![Broad Creek Map.png Broad Creek Map.png](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116187-34474e852ab73c777ed0600df54be68c.jpg)
Shortly after leaving Campsite 4B1. Morale is high as Hugh might say, even if Cody and Patrick's body language says otherwise.
![Day Three -- 9.jpg Day Three -- 9.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116174-341f93a420a9b62f5cb3254990b80933.jpg)
A look down on Broad Creek. Broad Creek has a tendency to meander from hillside to hillside as we worked up the little valley it lives in.
![Day Three -- 10.jpg Day Three -- 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116175-69e5f93a600d639bc930fb9c538ecc32.jpg)
The view just a short distance South of Campsite 4B1.
![GP__0357.JPG GP__0357.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116180-091a96ac3088d4e5d9b9a258414fb1bc.jpg)
Some areas were flat enough to allow walking in a straight line. Even when the rain would let up the wet grass would still try to soak our feet.
![Day Three -- 11.jpg Day Three -- 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116176-7f0f1bdec4fce71c557b5540bf283896.jpg)
Hugh ended up taking the lead for most of the day. Can you see his trail in this picture?
![GP__0360.JPG GP__0360.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116181-aa06f29e4af87029adf69cf300520253.jpg)
This picture reveals one of the reason's Hugh was so quick. Crossing Broad Creek would happen so frequently that we did not bother to change shoes. Instead, we would try to find a stable log to use as a bridge. Early on Hugh had a bit of a misstep and plunged his feet into the water. From here forward he would just splash across the creek crossings while Cody, Patrick, and I would take our time with the log crossings.
Hugh riding a log across Broad Creek. Yee-Haw!
![Day Three -- 12.jpg Day Three -- 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116177-4d30ede878fe290f84d242bb9f83cfe1.jpg)
Cody showing Hugh how it is done. He only has one pole because he let me use the other one.
![Day Three -- 13.jpg Day Three -- 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116178-51159d9ff249ab2c718a6c99754ccb75.jpg)
Poncho's Turn.
![Day Three -- 14.jpg Day Three -- 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116194-73d4b1eb5cac01f3a96990578527ae69.jpg)
I would try to follow Hugh's trail as best I could, then wait for Cody and Patrick. It is either raining here or my lens is smudged. Or both.
![GP__0361.JPG GP__0361.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116182-2dea23be1b2777333691f41270452312.jpg)
Many times Broad Creek cut right into a hillside and we had to walk the line between wet and dry. The line would be razor thin in some spots.
![GP__0364.JPG GP__0364.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116183-52fdfc01cdb2ffb739218fb200501277.jpg)
I think Poncho's feet were rather wet by this time.
![Day Three -- 15.jpg Day Three -- 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116195-ff1652a71f1baf2c313d068d998c121f.jpg)
More wet grasses to walk through. This may have been in the vicinity of old campsite 4B2. I do not believe the park service offers it as an option anymore.
![Day Three -- 16.jpg Day Three -- 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116196-0fddb106b9825653ebe54e4f14668f05.jpg)
More log bridges to cross.
![Day Three -- 17.jpg Day Three -- 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116197-3a2048df6e976d30c55c514393815fdc.jpg)
More of Broad Creek cutting right into a steep hillside.
![Day Three -- 18.jpg Day Three -- 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116198-f9146ab06d6cc4b5e2508f2a3f6b5946.jpg)
Patrick's feet were wet enough that he began taking Hugh's approach to crossing Broad Creek.
![Day Three -- 19.jpg Day Three -- 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116199-6a61c11dd1cd8597db62b607b4701158.jpg)
One of my favorite parts of the hike up Broad Creek was crossing this steep, orange hillside. It was a long way down to the bottom should you trip up.
![Day Three -- 20.jpg Day Three -- 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116200-06496dc608a568f6eb5e8c489b95c0c0.jpg)
Hugh took the low road.
![Day Three -- 21.jpg Day Three -- 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116201-3512f72ec8f1f2e5052e27a348925241.jpg)
Cody and Patrick went high. I was somewhere in the middle. Wish I had taken some video here!
![Day Three -- 22.jpg Day Three -- 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116202-a3c8e362157a8f2acbe08e4516aa0d0a.jpg)
There were actually several orange hillsides, but none were as special as the first.
Following Hugh down the Banks of Broad Creek. The word that kept coming to mind as I watched his pack sway back and forth while he walked was "lumbering." That is what happens when one has to carry a heavy spoon.
![Day Three -- 23.jpg Day Three -- 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116203-676ed967db4efa96b806739d22647f75.jpg)
This was the spot where I gave in to Hugh and Patrick's creek crossing technique. No logs were available and I was too tired to continue looking upstream, so I did what any already saturated hiker would do and sloshed across. I did not realize how not wet my feet were before until I started walking after the crossing.
![Day Three -- 24.jpg Day Three -- 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116204-cbb1cf26135f67acd56b2f870c316f59.jpg)
As the valley began to open up Patrick and Cody were glad that the worst was behind us. Or was it?
![Day Three -- 25.jpg Day Three -- 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116205-64f46791333b8629d05e2aa4e5b14402.jpg)
I took a quick side trip to check out campsite 4B3. You can still reserve this one, but I'd recommend approaching from the South.
![Day Three -- 26.jpg Day Three -- 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116206-a853b4fd540e5c1fba4b502faa452e1f.jpg)
We caught up with Hugh and took this group photo. I believe it does a good job of displaying the day's saturation factor.
![GP__0369.JPG GP__0369.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116215-41726de120efc1f527be319017e0faa8.jpg)
The sun actually gave us a small window for a well-deserved snack break. Cody was still trying to hand out his energy bars, so I ate another one. Patrick avoided anything that resembled a burrito.
![Day Three -- 27.jpg Day Three -- 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116207-3834f3e74d4e592b1d6379c3dda3696e.jpg)
Hugh took a moment to be one with his surroundings and enjoy the view surrounding Broad Creek. It was here that he told us to move on ahead to the campsite at Wapiti Lake and that he would catch up. He said he did not want to hold us back (even though he led the way the entire day). I was not sure if Hugh's words were a command or a suggestion, but Cody, Patrick, and I were not taking any chances. I think he just wanted us to have the campfire going by the time he arrived at camp.
![Day Three -- 28.jpg Day Three -- 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116208-ea2d0d4216b7e315021588212f7de4d7.jpg)
Looking back down the Broad Creek Valley. Those ominous clouds would get into a shoving match with the sun. . . and the clouds would win.
![Day Three -- 29.jpg Day Three -- 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116209-e067fd926d0508f457d69c06784b0f62.jpg)
After leaving Broad Creek we started walking on official NPS trail. The first time in over a day!
![GP__0372.JPG GP__0372.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116216-d60657f95d8289d2549bc161213567a5.jpg)
The hike to Wapiti Lake climbs a hillside and provided a nice view down to the Broad Creek Valley.
![Day Three -- 30.jpg Day Three -- 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116210-bca4126ee6be6b96b84030f1c2591945.jpg)
Somewhere down there was a lonely Scatman, lumbering his way towards us.
![Day Three -- 31.jpg Day Three -- 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116211-95f4460ecd0766acde6d9014743c2f3f.jpg)
The hike up the hillside felt like a lot more work than it probably was. Wet, squishy boots did not help.
Our first views of fishless Wapiti Lake.
![Day Three -- 32.jpg Day Three -- 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116212-4b51269f7068c9b6f4eb814b3b31acd7.jpg)
Our campsite was up ahead on a little peninsula emerging from the right. Cody, Patrick, and I picked up our pace because the clouds looked like trouble.
![Day Three -- 33.jpg Day Three -- 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116213-8aa662dadae8e830f0aba0758439d165.jpg)
We arrived in camp just in time to get caught in a heavy rain shower. All we could do was stand under a dryish tree and wait.
![Day Three -- 34.jpg Day Three -- 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116214-28ec5f5382764fe41d53f208b03b8342.jpg)
As we waited Hugh arrived in camp. It was not long after that a break in the rain took place and we scurried to set up our tents. The rain held off long enough to allow the starting of a fire. This was my first Yellowstone backcountry fire -- normally Septembers have been too dry to risk burning down the park. A fire was definitely in order after today's events and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Except maybe Hugh. I can see he is struggling with his nemesis in this picture. . . every mouthful of his Chad Mendes Bison Mashers burned more calories lifting it from the bag than Hugh gained from eating it.
![GP__0375.JPG GP__0375.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116218-100a49e1151565e3a4a16355073c9f7e.jpg)
No @Bob , we are not cooking our boots in this picture, we are simply trying to dry out some of the wetness.
![GP__0377.JPG GP__0377.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116219-4e307b7edd789176b70a1106fb30831e.jpg)
We watched the fire until darkness was upon us. After putting out the flames we headed back to our tents with our semi-dry boots. Tomorrow would be a good day because camp was staying put so no rush to break things down in the morning. I fell asleep just as I had woken up -- to the sound of raindrops on my tent, but now I was tired enough not to care and slept thru the racket.
Day Four: Thursday September 15, 2022.
Thankfully the rain stopped sometime in the night. Just as day was breaking, I could hear something splashing around in the lake water. I was too comfortable in my tent to investigate. It could have been a water bird, a grizzly along the shore, or Hugh taking a morning swim. Some mysteries will never have an answer.
When I did roll out to greet the day I walked down to the lake shore. Early morning Wapiti Lake water provided some nice reflections for photographs.
![0O7A1025.JPG 0O7A1025.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116221-8b8b7d22c0f2410af8412721af675af2.jpg)
![0O7A1024.JPG 0O7A1024.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116220-ee513bc2e8319ced915d3ac679082842.jpg)
Wet tents at campsite 4W2.
![0O7A1029.JPG 0O7A1029.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116223-5609169f14535161f1cce40b5a2bfb38.jpg)
During breakfast a pleasant display of sun rays warmed our faces, but not our footwear.
![0O7A1034.JPG 0O7A1034.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116224-ac4c916b90aa56cb6c960a586034bf60.jpg)
While filtering water I took a minute to represent Backcountry Post at Wapiti Lake.
![0O7A1038.JPG 0O7A1038.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116225-3b864628a2549f3d29de7b0b6d881400.jpg)
A quick tour of camp. Hugh chose the spot furthest from the lake shore on the peninsula. I have to assume that it was the flattest spot.
![0O7A1041.JPG 0O7A1041.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116228-6cdf463a028012935044d4bddd8881ba.jpg)
Cody and Patrick, probably arguing about who's boots where the wettest.
![0O7A1039.JPG 0O7A1039.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116226-cb855bfbff671da2da947d8bb572f007.jpg)
Patrick taking a moment to admire his "Pownching." Some sort of Awning/Poncho hybridization.
![0O7A1040.JPG 0O7A1040.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116227-d8f6a0288b65b7ee1bb48d0f0eb1cda7.jpg)
We could have easily enjoyed a leisurely morning relaxing at our campsite by the shores of Wapiti Lake. . . but that is not how Hugh and I roll. We planned a lolli-pop loop day hike to the Hot Springs Basin. We had originally intended to make the trip all the way up to Rainbow Springs but decided to save that destination for another day. Hot Springs Basin would be enough.
Once again, this map shows a rough outline of our route. Simple paint program and all.
![HotSpringsBasinMap.jpg HotSpringsBasinMap.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116230-f43c7ccf2f228e10c4412b4381043bdd.jpg)
Our route started by following the Wapiti Lake Trail North a short distance. Hugh told us to take a left thru the trees after a short distance, which he did.
![0O7A1043.JPG 0O7A1043.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116231-ab797d3ef8a2df19c70ce89577e988e2.jpg)
Cody, Patrick and I must have taken the trail a little too far and we had to navigate thru some of this before finding Hugh and the meadow on the other side.
![0O7A1045.JPG 0O7A1045.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116232-4fcda7e95b2f6fec2b26f1d9bb122e88.jpg)
Once out of the trees we walked the meadows lining Shallow Creek.
![0O7A1046.JPG 0O7A1046.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116233-58673f469c4d7c2d28eb5a37975f357d.jpg)
Looking back towards where Shallow Creek meets Wapiti Lake.
![0O7A1047.JPG 0O7A1047.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116234-1091b737ce002982ee0346cf2b147bea.jpg)
Hugh patiently waiting on us up ahead. He is standing just to the right of center. I wondered if he had brought the spoon along for the day hike, but I did not dare ask.
![0O7A1048.JPG 0O7A1048.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116235-9c257b406f3073f0484effbd04d13c11.jpg)
Our path forward.
![0O7A1049.JPG 0O7A1049.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116236-83775f19125860d9d387bb679b9574e5.jpg)
We stirred up a group of Sandhill Cranes as we walked and they provided us with a noisy flyover.
![0O7A1052.JPG 0O7A1052.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116237-b8e097553f30b8b3cd11a773ba8f64a7.jpg)
Thermal features began to line the banks of Shallow Creek rather quickly.
![0O7A1058.JPG 0O7A1058.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116238-b7c6e0fbbf4fddaf6a50fc85c875b711.jpg)
![0O7A1061.JPG 0O7A1061.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116239-bf3a42addf4b8267866076c9d52ee942.jpg)
Patrick, getting the shot.
![0O7A1062.JPG 0O7A1062.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116240-394d572216ad94aeb371f8fe08242f9c.jpg)
![0O7A1064.JPG 0O7A1064.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116241-4e64889c0800d5d3fc9b93bcf15ab3fe.jpg)
Heading downstream.
![0O7A1067.JPG 0O7A1067.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116242-3d3d4300f6b8cb852b3d2ff6770cd7ec.jpg)
Looking downstream.
![0O7A1069.JPG 0O7A1069.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116243-046599271a2c1695c530dfed0e7f1a53.jpg)
Hugh kept reminiscing about a bison skull he saw in the area years ago. I was able to capture the reunion.
![0O7A1070.JPG 0O7A1070.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116244-ea4b049a8cabb8020cf0395177cd4c5b.jpg)
I found these barber pole trees fascinating.
![0O7A1078.JPG 0O7A1078.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116247-f212a8ad211788d089a8eb6c698993f1.jpg)
Nice waterfall on Shallow Creek.
![0O7A1084.JPG 0O7A1084.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116248-87794a93d7a142d94a5bd2ef0a882265.jpg)
North of the waterfall the ground begins to get more thermally.
![0O7A1087.JPG 0O7A1087.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116249-1cd9fadd1502fc005939b986f6a1a69f.jpg)
Look at Hugh go! He must have left the spoon back at camp.
![0O7A1091.JPG 0O7A1091.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116250-7e274af0d488a528ab4826d142cf6826.jpg)
We would walk up the little hill in front of Hugh in the last picture and cut thru a small cluster of trees to this view.
![0O7A1101.JPG 0O7A1101.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116251-e9847dd5959bce387cf55b7c80733ee9.jpg)
And this.
![0O7A1103.JPG 0O7A1103.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116253-457fcf794e29013ab7cbf1210a726197.jpg)
And this.
![Day Four -- 1.jpg Day Four -- 1.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116262-70bd0ae1f549ed3b43ee4aa380c6706e.jpg)
A ginormous hole in the earth was one of the first things that greeted us.
![0O7A1102.JPG 0O7A1102.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116252-916dfb05e0e9cce57bd50a262cbec099.jpg)
A look down inside.
![0O7A1104.JPG 0O7A1104.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116254-6bf07236fb6bbb40bc4057ab6003296c.jpg)
Hot Springs Basin covers a very large area. I would go so far as to say that it might cover an area as large as the Upper Geyser Basin. It may not contain the spritzy geysers for which Upper Geyser Basin deservedly gets attention, but it does contain a significant number of hot springs and mud pots I've not seen in similar numbers anywhere else in Yellowstone. At least not as of yet.
What will follow will be a lot of pictures from Hot Springs Basin. I'll keep the comments to a minimum. . . unless I cannot help myself. We only covered a portion of the basin during our day's exploration. . . I would not mind making a return trip to see what we missed.
![0O7A1119.JPG 0O7A1119.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116256-ab771dc3ee9f1577471786d1d04adbbe.jpg)
![0O7A1122.JPG 0O7A1122.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116257-4bb67a4e1142db216da418423bdf25fc.jpg)
![0O7A1107.JPG 0O7A1107.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116255-94c91e4851e4cc4d26ce0bb3738f0efd.jpg)
![0O7A1124.JPG 0O7A1124.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116259-c8ae33dde8ab763ce07b1f5097ec163b.jpg)
![0O7A1123.JPG 0O7A1123.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116258-1493a3470f0d20d15bc3e981fe3d2abf.jpg)
![0O7A1125.JPG 0O7A1125.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116260-cfcef7fb6e3a2668c48dc999b6f0d047.jpg)
![0O7A1127.JPG 0O7A1127.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116261-3a473046eaba0034fb9fe5e320c8a0b2.jpg)
![Day Four -- 2.jpg Day Four -- 2.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116263-18b94e26d1daa1ff27b6cde7eb18c539.jpg)
No lie, Patrick was actually communicating with people back home in this area. We actually had cell service in most locations -- I was able to call home at least once a day. The carrier is AT+T for the curious.
![0O7A1130.JPG 0O7A1130.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116265-0c297336f306e129e5bd1c6d5aef6f8f.jpg)
![0O7A1133.JPG 0O7A1133.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116266-aa959ea3ab2fb0c3059af752f71fb2c6.jpg)
These little sulfur stacks covered the ground in many areas.
![0O7A1134.JPG 0O7A1134.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116267-ffcb90fe2c606bd4f3b00f070dd5a947.jpg)
Interesting Mud Pot with a milky surface but dark gray bubbles.
![0O7A1140.JPG 0O7A1140.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116269-5db22c185c332e9301971a25f631c21c.jpg)
Water marks on the ground/down wood suggest this area would look very different in June or July.
![0O7A1142.JPG 0O7A1142.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116270-6fdb41188ec4cbb2b8df05500ad6957b.jpg)
Reminds me of a cracked egg.
![0O7A1143.JPG 0O7A1143.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116271-277d300e7597ece53db459c2a3b78436.jpg)
![0O7A1147.JPG 0O7A1147.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116272-7330658534aae04bd1061da834571568.jpg)
![0O7A1148.JPG 0O7A1148.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116273-7ae65b7f3a4aff1ad7afb61b7f666587.jpg)
Hurdling trees while touring the basin.
![0O7A1152.JPG 0O7A1152.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116275-3faf300094c87fc4f14f4b62fabff238.jpg)
I love a good mud pot. Hot Springs Basin is full of them.
![0O7A1155.JPG 0O7A1155.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116276-f1c789853aa04102a9f4c92ad5de97ba.jpg)
![0O7A1156.JPG 0O7A1156.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116277-13ac35fa3cd76e9f4fdef19a953dfeb4.jpg)
So many colors. . .
![0O7A1160.JPG 0O7A1160.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116278-76d0f8fb51b6214758df8eab17492185.jpg)
And Textures. . .
![0O7A1168.JPG 0O7A1168.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116279-8aae2d93452decfcc9be639e48a8c19e.jpg)
Even the down wood has character here.
![0O7A1172.JPG 0O7A1172.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116280-aacb8917555b133e1a7edc69e697277b.jpg)
![0O7A1174.JPG 0O7A1174.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116281-f44a36959e586affaf29e37e4a40ea7d.jpg)
![Day Four -- 3.jpg Day Four -- 3.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116264-9f1020beebaa4458b2d812b4c965f794.jpg)
![0O7A1175.JPG 0O7A1175.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116282-76bb7d50719804ae150c59831147d66f.jpg)
Cody for scale.
![0O7A1176.JPG 0O7A1176.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116283-8e6c3de506281a929a3e5cb52385d66b.jpg)
![0O7A1177.JPG 0O7A1177.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116284-888633f3fbcd574cf4dd3b2cad74e91d.jpg)
Patrick is wondering who lined up all those rocks.
![0O7A1185.JPG 0O7A1185.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116285-637497ade3ffb897deac3a7b178bc28a.jpg)
![0O7A1204.JPG 0O7A1204.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116286-accb8b9f1bb411fa471aa0732b53595a.jpg)
![0O7A1207.JPG 0O7A1207.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116287-0142a23fffac38f844a48b81f9c7bc96.jpg)
We turned a corner and for a moment I thought I was in canyon country.
![0O7A1211.JPG 0O7A1211.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116288-2ff7af41fe560a69f24a6b8fcf32e815.jpg)
Canyon Country in miniature, that is. Hands down this was my favorite feature/visual of the entire day.
![0O7A1212.JPG 0O7A1212.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116289-0ae1df4cd9be25579ccf080c5355f916.jpg)
![GP__0389.JPG GP__0389.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116296-59e2993bfedd13d805c49016e2a15b8f.jpg)
![0O7A1216.JPG 0O7A1216.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116290-c6d614f43d9af05b8614bf27d168cec6.jpg)
![0O7A1218.JPG 0O7A1218.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116291-ba56920036cf25dca364b30f585561c4.jpg)
![0O7A1219.JPG 0O7A1219.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116292-fc7bad366c0e110f4321135bc9c52542.jpg)
![0O7A1222.JPG 0O7A1222.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116293-1567696ba95b49118ecacec4fadbb3e9.jpg)
In case you were counting, I brought three picture taking devices with me on this trip.
1. Big Camera:
![0O7A1223.JPG 0O7A1223.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116294-699a9200bd0406c5c413769df1adffbe.jpg)
#2. Cell Phone.
![Day Four -- 4.jpg Day Four -- 4.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116295-6005690dbffdcffcc5d47aa5e2580530.jpg)
#3. GoPro.
![GP__0392.JPG GP__0392.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116297-b9292c8b1b92372c6b5859f3fe10b762.jpg)
I'll understand if you skip ahead past all the thermal pictures.
Another lively mud pot.
![0O7A1227.JPG 0O7A1227.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116298-6a37afbc05e199375c56def01c6b5b61.jpg)
![Day Four -- 5.jpg Day Four -- 5.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116311-d9df9c196855baefd5db780c39f2da76.jpg)
Hugh was starting to get a little hungry and I failed to pack him some extra snacks, so he had to resort to what nature could provide.
![Day Four -- 7.jpg Day Four -- 7.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116319-84c19de8f182f5a849e4f45b868c2226.jpg)
Eventually we wandered our way to one of the main stretches of Hot Springs Basin.
![0O7A1241.JPG 0O7A1241.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116301-619f1b23679fd607f4e5d064cb014673.jpg)
![0O7A1244.JPG 0O7A1244.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116302-d3c28f78dd564c6bf99521b6f9f456e6.jpg)
![0O7A1245.JPG 0O7A1245.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116303-553c53ebf557db3ff7c45f0ac382e88f.jpg)
I wandered off while Hugh, Cody, and Patrick took a rest. Can you find them?
![0O7A1247.JPG 0O7A1247.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116304-ed71ee88627d66662648333f30e022e6.jpg)
How about now?
![0O7A1248.JPG 0O7A1248.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116305-8b372f495adb3f2788df0e3833e11050.jpg)
I walked a hillside ridge to view the thermal awesomeness below.
![0O7A1249.JPG 0O7A1249.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116306-56f35ea0137df29274efa0ee1f1d3dae.jpg)
Looking downstream on Shallow Creek. We have almost closed our loop. Fumaroles are fun.
![0O7A1253.JPG 0O7A1253.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116308-aabd5aefd30f6ff08ab07abad0e41d9f.jpg)
I spied with my little eye what I thought was a small geyser erupting. Could have easily been a perpetual spouter too.
![0O7A1279.JPG 0O7A1279.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116309-19ae739e814980717bbb0aae6ab8c1fd.jpg)
Features encountered on the way back to Shallow Creek.
![0O7A1291.JPG 0O7A1291.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116312-fa7246f69319b8c517205c04fa542865.jpg)
![0O7A1297.JPG 0O7A1297.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116313-6571bb124221df867bd2f6f0e7da8f66.jpg)
![0O7A1301.JPG 0O7A1301.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116314-182aff3c080de7213717df9524b262cb.jpg)
![0O7A1304.JPG 0O7A1304.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116315-d0a2074352e9036489999fc1bfcb351c.jpg)
![0O7A1313.JPG 0O7A1313.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116316-04ed69e62d53e64f6f7e3caee9f9d439.jpg)
![0O7A1316.JPG 0O7A1316.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116317-a95532dbf466c294e6265979fcf4a52c.jpg)
![0O7A1323.JPG 0O7A1323.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116318-b23fdeecf208276386a0fac1796f209f.jpg)
Consider me impressed if you made it through all those pictures. If they somehow left you wanting more here is a short collection of Hot Springs Basin video clips.
All good day hikes must come to an end; when we reached Shallow Creek we followed it back to our campsite at Wapiti Lake. The clouds were beginning to thicken once more and sure enough rain would grace us with its presence, but not before we started another fire and celebrated a beautiful day spent in the backcountry before heading to our tents.
I took three pictures of this scene -- Hugh's position/facial expression never changed. That is Scatman at his happiest in case you were wondering.
![GP__0404.JPG GP__0404.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116320-0842b4f5c7810ff6ef6ff7f5d305ddb4.jpg)
Day Five: Friday September 16, 2022
Today was the day we would be hiking back to the trailhead and civilization. There was 16+ miles between us and a shower, proper hot food, and a beer. We more or less followed the official NPS trail the full distance so I will not bother posting a map, but I can tell you we covered 16.6 miles over seven hours and forty minutes.
Hugh was up early this morning. In fact we all were. We knew there were restrictions on what times we were allowed in Pelican Valley, so we wanted to be punctual with our exit. After Hugh ate his breakfast, he began the long walk back to the car while the rest of us finished tidying up camp. We figured we'd catch him in a mile or so.
Cody, Patrick, and I just as we were leaving campsite 4W2. The day started out overcast, but dry.
![GP__0407.JPG GP__0407.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116337-6c5f84213113577c8e4fc8b24074ddb7.jpg)
We had to follow the trail North before making a 180 degree turn to then start heading South. It makes more sense when you are hiking that vs. when you are reading it.
A lot of down fall along this part of the trail. I am glad we did not have to climb over most of it.
![0O7A1331.JPG 0O7A1331.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116324-9dc30d2352d66cf175cf07db1af0c750.jpg)
Still there were some obstacles.
![0O7A1332.JPG 0O7A1332.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116325-fbde214336857f394bc0329428f7c49c.jpg)
Some more alive than others.
![0O7A1348.JPG 0O7A1348.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116332-2dd54213e10ca11f95dc593e117c9727.jpg)
We climbed into the thin barrier of trees along the side of the trail to let the behemoth pass.
![0O7A1349.JPG 0O7A1349.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116333-1bd4fd73ab2474c82d09bd5f8a20f246.jpg)
![0O7A1350.JPG 0O7A1350.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116334-506229212488640cbe903331087e50cf.jpg)
Open views of the upper reaches of Pelican Valley.
![0O7A1334.JPG 0O7A1334.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116326-4dcd0524c701cf3650c37c390a4d3bd2.jpg)
![0O7A1336.JPG 0O7A1336.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116327-e82a7db41daa15e305e4ee1d3d0f84cc.jpg)
Beginnings of Pelican Creek.
![0O7A1339.JPG 0O7A1339.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116328-b8375bc99438479ee52bc9f937d5a30e.jpg)
Our first crossing of Pelican Creek. That bridge is spoiling us.
![0O7A1340.JPG 0O7A1340.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116329-b99e303618a00d15ff25d17280ca8041.jpg)
Our trail would alternate between woods and open views.
![0O7A1342.JPG 0O7A1342.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116330-b39c585f643006deb88815bc3407f38f.jpg)
Doubt this is how they met their fate.
![0O7A1346.JPG 0O7A1346.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116331-4601365ec1eee54a86dbc864edda8e5e.jpg)
Quite the view.
![0O7A1354.JPG 0O7A1354.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116335-aaf2da03d7f1cae6e8926f4df321330a.jpg)
We were walking at a rather good pace and were a bit surprised we had not caught up with Hugh. We would see one of his footprints now and again, and there was no blood so we knew he was ok.
![0O7A1356.JPG 0O7A1356.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116336-2bd05378cc25346db08a8bbe23e38fd6.jpg)
![0O7A1357.JPG 0O7A1357.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116338-743c744788f3079a92b1559c9f7c637e.jpg)
Its the Pelican Creek Trail for us.
![0O7A1359.JPG 0O7A1359.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116339-85c505415b585395089aee702e357392.jpg)
One of the reasons I wanted to take the Pelican Creek Trail is because it travels nearby what I'm calling the "Pelican Valley Mud Volcano." We could see large clouds of steam and then could begin to hear it -- a short off trail jaunt is required to see it.
Steam thru the trees. Sort of blends in with the clouds.
![0O7A1362.JPG 0O7A1362.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116340-7d4b653b6f7a25f4c20b1f31aa8b084d.jpg)
The mud volcano was magnificent. I could have spent an hour or better here, but instead took advantage of 20 minutes or so to take a lot of pictures.
Note Cody for scale.
![0O7A1365.JPG 0O7A1365.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116341-1a9e82efa593fdc61071acdff4338ef8.jpg)
![0O7A1382.JPG 0O7A1382.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116342-800e50163ce0329a9efa3e8ea2ce3fe9.jpg)
![0O7A1384.JPG 0O7A1384.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116343-e44ff73f79624f9af974ff3aa1f65426.jpg)
![0O7A1398.JPG 0O7A1398.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116344-8e922fe4a723e0f1f1eac643521536b9.jpg)
![0O7A1401.JPG 0O7A1401.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116345-17c2aa902f8206d37c7689924bd99438.jpg)
![0O7A1403.JPG 0O7A1403.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116346-dbe23718c08be24ab0f53a20f7278399.jpg)
I had been thinking about this day and this moment for weeks before our trip, and I was not disappointed. Patrick's turn to take a look.
![0O7A1419.JPG 0O7A1419.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116347-98846c729dc89880e219d606b3fe58cf.jpg)
Video of Splashing Mud:
We left the Mud Volcano behind -- we thought we might see Hugh there but apparently he just kept on trucking.
Continuing South brought us to a more substantial crossing of Pelican Creek.
![0O7A1422.JPG 0O7A1422.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116348-4b4adb2708ba82a5380c8dc2e2e13ae8.jpg)
![0O7A1423.JPG 0O7A1423.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116349-b0c6e88d73b0e30efb0bc6c4fcc6a0e5.jpg)
We put our rain gear on here as the drops were beginning to fall. Temperatures were feeling a cooler as well.
![0O7A1424.JPG 0O7A1424.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116350-0d9a3d4319611661ff39009703a4f7b9.jpg)
Several more bison had to be dealt with. Can you see the hikers among the trees?
![0O7A1429.JPG 0O7A1429.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116351-7a9d1b9fd53552e662aa8e365025d20b.jpg)
These two bison gave us the most trouble. You might notice the trail leads right to them.
![0O7A1436.JPG 0O7A1436.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116352-7b6251d96ee09ee1445f25ee7445d531.jpg)
Actually it was just the bison on the right that we had an issue with. As we walked around them -- giving them plenty of space -- this fella decided he was going to walk along with us. We ended up having a slow race between man and bison to the hill in front of us.
![0O7A1439.JPG 0O7A1439.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116353-01bb856e271d29ea5b56425d4cb84ccc.jpg)
Pulling slightly ahead of the bison.
![0O7A1440.JPG 0O7A1440.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116354-333fd7d25ead0a7728e295779a4e9811.jpg)
Once we were up and over yhe small hill the bison continued to follow us. The best we can figure is that he was attracted to Poncho's lovely blue hump and was trying to get a closer look.
![0O7A1441.JPG 0O7A1441.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116355-93ab93ad1ebc3f93499a1371765c2ada.jpg)
The mid-upper sections of Pelican Valley were filled with thermal features. Normally I'd investigate such areas, but I knew the clock was ticking and the rain/cold was starting to get annoying, so we kept moving.
![Day Five -- 8.jpg Day Five -- 8.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116360-d5bc245221083a6437aa2213f2c6cbad.jpg)
![0O7A1442.JPG 0O7A1442.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116356-f369b074c8c70471c1e151745281d77b.jpg)
Our race with the bison may have taken us off the proper trail for a stint. We were now faced with crossing a mucky portion around Pelican Creek.
![0O7A1443.JPG 0O7A1443.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116357-70b58ecd7bc1dfb68d347d312f0e10b0.jpg)
To make things even more interesting the terrain was dotted with numerous little thermal vents. I was not losing a foot to boiling ground on this day!
![0O7A1444.JPG 0O7A1444.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116361-cba5884384d32b385a9669bd742ffb22.jpg)
Our feet and legs were thoroughly soaked by this time.
![0O7A1445.JPG 0O7A1445.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116362-887a4619f43a01fb4878ecf2a280e748.jpg)
See?
![0O7A1446.JPG 0O7A1446.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116363-a8b56b2628325e64ea20ac4a19829d79.jpg)
Who knew a poncho could generate so much lift?
![Day Five -- 9.jpg Day Five -- 9.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116378-1c8aec337604663b71536e5939ca2227.jpg)
When the rain would fall in more significant amounts we would try to take shelter under a large tree. I was able to get a couple pictures of thermal stuff during those times.
The Mushpots? or The Mudkettles?
![0O7A1449.JPG 0O7A1449.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116364-67f5ce4d90b8f5ffd0f508c86d5c70c0.jpg)
Pretty Colors.
![0O7A1450.JPG 0O7A1450.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116365-5a1afcc2bf72dea90a5f05e147c31d97.jpg)
![0O7A1451.JPG 0O7A1451.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116366-1e5846a6cc3d3fbf98ee2cae816dddaa.jpg)
We were starting to notice a lot of tracks along our trail. These in particular had the blood pumping a bit.
![0O7A1458.JPG 0O7A1458.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116367-d9e6a9ccc6309f7d42bf2e17f79de9bf.jpg)
![0O7A1459.JPG 0O7A1459.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116368-0c2911ce3eb92a9f62703ef4403cadb2.jpg)
I had my hand on the bear spray as we climbed each hill and turned each corner. Never had a need to use it though.
Pelican Valley would begin to open up in front of and below us. We were past halfway!
![0O7A1460.JPG 0O7A1460.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116369-30858b2a11392eaa246718a9aeab1aec.jpg)
As we dropped down into the valley the largest herd of bison I've seen in Yellowstone was in the distance in front of us.
![0O7A1463.JPG 0O7A1463.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116370-8ff70fc979431503467570a48c604e4c.jpg)
I would later learn that Hugh was almost trampled by those bison.
The next number of miles were tough. I more or less put the cameras away and focused on the walk ahead. I was wet and starting to feel some tingles in my fingers from the cold. I did not want to stop and put another layer on and neither did Cody or Patrick, so we just kept walking. The trail was beginning to fill with water and it was easier to walk along side it than on it.
The only bright spot was that we finally caught a glimpse of Hugh. We could see his pack cover lumbering about way off in the distance. Mosey mode my a**. We knew at that moment that Hugh had been holding out on us and had a higher hiking gear to be that far ahead.
Eventually we reached a trail marker.
![0O7A1467.JPG 0O7A1467.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116371-d5bfe727774142231d6b396f4a7efa36.jpg)
And then what was left of Pelican Creek Bridge.
![0O7A1468.JPG 0O7A1468.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116372-f587057dbedc8ec5eade86f3ccd8948d.jpg)
I was in a bit of zombie mode when it came time to cross Pelican Creek and just sloshed thru the water. Cody and Patrick did the same. Once past the bridge there was another three plus miles to the trailhead. One foot in front of the other. Just. Keep. Walking.
I'd been watching the trail ahead and I could see Hugh in front of me. I made it my mission to catch him before reaching the trailhead, so I dug deep, picked up the pace, and was able to catch up with the legend with about a mile to go.
Catching up with Scatman.
![0O7A1471.JPG 0O7A1471.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116373-32ab06f1e9a3853d63dc0e315c39926c.jpg)
Patrick and Cody would catch up too. A look back at the three of them and our lovely trail conditions. I wonder what Patrick is thinking at this moment? Maybe "I sure hope Dave has the car keys."
![0O7A1472.JPG 0O7A1472.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116374-752d37a3c7fd07b497667c4cbb2bbd3e.jpg)
I arrived at the trailhead exhausted yet fulfilled.
A picture of the trailhead marker.
![0O7A1474.JPG 0O7A1474.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116375-b93c1902016c6e5d7cf2e3d2c40854fa.jpg)
Victory Group Shot.
![0O7A1476.JPG 0O7A1476.JPG](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/116/116376-b68da8730717ef2ff6e358a3225ee3c2.jpg)
We would make the drive up to Canyon and more or less trash the cabin I had rented us for the night. Don't worry, I left housekeeping a nice tip.
I will have more commentary in some posts to follow, but I've been at this report for a good while and want to get it posted before my computer crashes and I lose it all. I'll also go back and edit any of my spelling or grammar errors as needed.
In summary I want to say that I'm proud of Cody and Patrick for how they handled themselves on this crazy experience, and that I grateful to have Hugh as a friend to think up these crazy adventures with. Yellowstone 2022 would not have been the same without any of you. The good times, the bad times, the wet times, and the heavy times. . . touring the wilderness with you guys has been one of the highlights of my year.
Thanks again for reading along!
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