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2025 was a good year for checking things off the "Things to do and see in Yellowstone" list. In August @Bob , @scatman , and I backpacked the Sky Rim and Specimen Creek Trails (in addition to a portion of the Gallatin Crest Trail).
Trip Reports Here: Part One and Part Two
On September 7th Hugh and I were back in Yellowstone with two friends I brought from home. We enjoyed a day hike from the Cygnet Lakes TH to Mary Mountain East TH.
Trip Report: Cygnet TH to Mary Mountain TH
We followed that day hike up with a backpacking trip in the Southwest corner of the park. We planned a route that would take us from Buffalo Lake down to the Bechler Ranger Station. Normally this route would necessitate a vehicle shuttle, but we had the good fortune of @Bob being a local. He volunteered to come with us for the first night and in turn drive us to the trailhead. I would have liked it if Bob could have accompanied us for the entire route, but winter was on the horizon and he had tasks that needed accomplished back at home. At least that is what he told us. . . I suppose that sounds better than him saying he had to wash his hair.
For those that might prefer a video to a written trip report of this trip, I will add a link at the end of this post.
Day One: Monday, September 8, 2025
So bright and early Monday Hugh, Patrick, Cody, and I left the comfort of the Old Faithful Inn Cabins to drive West into the land they call Idaho. We drove to Bob Manor, a lovely home nestled in the trees of Island Park. Bob then led us South with a quick stop at Upper and Lower Mesa Falls before we turned onto Cave Falls Road and reentered Yellowstone. We parked the Subaru and my rental car at the Bechler Ranger Station, then Bob drove all of us up the road to take a look at Cave Falls. I know Hugh will never admit it, but I bet the touristy tour of all the waterfalls was one of his favorite parts of the trip.
Upper Mesa Falls (left) and Lower Mesa Falls (right).
Getting ready at the Bechler Ranger Station.
Cave Falls.
From Cave Falls Bob drove old forest roads to a pullout in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest West of Yellowstone. This is where the backcountry portion of the trip begins as we followed an old logging road into the columns of trees growing after the area was logged or burned by the North Fork Fire in 1988 (or both).
The road quickly narrowed down into a single track and continued thru forested terrain all the way to Buffalo Lake.
Buffalo Lake in the distance.
A deer ran across our path while we were checking out the Buffalo Lake Patrol Cabin. I think Bob said he did not see the deer. . . probably because he was looking in the wrong direction.
I was not sure what to expect from Buffalo Lake. I knew it was remote and off the beaten track. It turned out to be an enjoyable destination and Campsite 9A5 was the perfect spot to take in reflections.
YouTube Short:
Camp setup in the trees; plenty of tent sites here.
I did not manage to catch a group shot before we set out, so dinner on our first night will have to suffice.
Every year I manage to forget something before heading into the backcountry -- no matter how much I plan. Sometimes it is something trivial like an extra camera battery or a fourth pair of socks. This year around dinner time I realized I forgot something much more critical. . . my water filter. I had stashed it into my day pack when we hiked Hayden Valley the day before and I missed transferring it over to the big pack. Luckily, I had brought friends with me and Cody had packed his water filter -- we would have to rely on the Survivimate pump filter (or Hugh's Steri-Pen) the rest of the trip. For the record, no negative consequences to report several months out.
Night one was peaceful at Buffalo Lake. A flock of geese took up residence on the lake and provided an early morning wake up call. I remember the morning being chilly, but not cold.
Day Two: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Day two Breakfast:
We had a bit of a lazy morning before walking back towards the Buffalo Lake Patrol Cabin to see Bob off. As we were walking along the lakeshore, I caught this picture of the gang behind me. . . and I could not help but think something was missing. . .
And then it occurred to me. This was the classic scene from many a movie where the heroes are walking away from conflict after saving the day and never looking back. All that was missing was. . .
An Explosion!
My mind is a complicated place. What can I say.
Hugh, Cody, Patrick, and I said our goodbyes to Bob and continued on the Boundary Creek Trail towards our next campsite: 9A4.
The trail from Buffalo Lake stayed in the trees and occasionally encountered creek beds -- all of which were dry by this time of year.
Cody, Patrick, and I were slightly ahead of Hugh. When we caught up, he told us a Grizzly Bear ran down one of the dry creek beds. I'd have to guess this was probably his second favorite part of the trip (right after the waterfall touristy stuff).
I had hoped to see a waterfall that is on a tributary of Boundary Creek, but just like the creek beds we found it dry. There was still a pool of water at what would be the base of the falls.
I was bummed about the waterfall, but knew we were hiking towards some interesting thermal features so the disappointment was short lived. The Boundary Creek Trail passes right thru two different thermal areas. The park has posted signs prohibiting horses/stock from travelling on this part of the trail in fear they might fall thru the thermal crusts. We took a break here to investigate some of the interesting features.
Water levels were low enough that many of the features were emitting steam.
Several areas held very hot, flowing water -- sometimes flowing right out of the hillside.
Taking a break and eating some Okra.
I took a walk down the hillside and found a spot where Rick Hutchinson had been studying geothermal activity in the area. This weir is a remnant of his work.
One last look down a thermal expanse as it heads down to Boundary Creek. I will admit I was tempted to follow it down to the creek to see if the water was warm enough to take a soak in the creek. . . I put it on the someday list instead.
A more colorful portion of the thermals.
We crossed Boundary Creek shortly after leaving the thermal areas. It followed a meandering path and we would catch glimpses of it on the way to the campsite.
Campsite 9A4 is known as "Talus Terrace." Large piles of talus rose on our left side as we approached camp. I took this picture looking back, because the sun was in my eyes facing forward.
Backcountry campsite 9A4 sits close to Boundary Creek. Recent improvements appear to be a newer bear pole and a pit toilet -- a luxury we were not expecting. Tent sites were not so obvious, but we found places amongst the gnarled trees at the base of the likely avalanche prone terrace.
My tent: REI Quarter Dome SL 1, then Hugh's tent: REI Quarter Dome 1.
Cody's tent, then Patrick's. . . tarp.
We dodged some raindrops before dinner. Cody and I hung out at the eating area while Hugh may have been taking a nap or was out exploring. After a period of time Patrick showed up looking very pleased with himself. He announced that he had taken a bath in the creek and was feeling quite refreshed. Sitting in my camp chair, I casually asked him if he checked for leeches. The look on his face instantly changed from satisfaction to concern. "Leeches?" he asked. "Oh, yes," I said, "there can be leeches in the water around here. Right on cue, Cody chipped in. "Yeah, you know they tend to congregate around the nether regions." What happened next was a flurry of Patrick trying to undress and inspect himself for any unwanted companions. Cody and I eventually cracked a smile, laughed and reassured Patrick he had nothing to worry about before seeing too much. (But seriously, check yourself for leeches if you go swimming.)
Hugh eventually showed up, and we were able to enjoy dinner without rain falling on us.
Day Three: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
We had Campsite 9A4 reserved for two nights. That meant that on day three we could leave the heavy stuff in camp and take a day hike to the destination of our choosing. Hugh and I planned an off-trail route that took us across the talus to the Valley of Death Thermal Area, followed a path down to Silver Scarf Falls, moved over to Dunanda Falls, then returned to camp via the Boundary Creek Trail. I posted a report covering this day hike earlier, so I will post a link and fewer pictures here than usual.
Day Three Full Length Trip Report: Day Three Day Hike
The short(er) version.
Views as we headed up the talus slope across from camp.
In hindsight, a more practical route could easily be taken to our eventual destination. . . but where is the fun in that?
We made it across the rocks without dropping anything in them or twisting an ankle. We found our way to the "Valley of Death" thermal area at the upper reaches of Silver Scarf Creek.
I found this area fascinating but did not feel the need to get close and play hopscotch with unstable thermal ground.
We worked our way to Silver Scarf Falls, taking in views of the Tetons along the way.
Snack break at Silver Scarf Falls.
This was our view. Not too shabby.
Then the highlight of the trip for me; a visit to Dunanda Falls and a soak in the warm waters below it.
We lucked out and had the falls mostly to ourselves. Two day hikers were there when we arrived, but they left not long after. I'd like to think it was nothing personal.
We stayed at the falls for a good amount of time. We (I) begrudgingly headed back to camp when the clouds overhead thickened and threatened rain.
There are many interesting waterfalls and cascades on Boundary Creek between Dunanda and campsite 9A4. You have to leave the trail to look over the canyon wall to see most of them.
We made it back to camp without getting rained on and the skies even opened to let a little sunshine thru. Hugh kept us entertained over dinner with stories of adventure and Howard Eaton Trail lore that took place during his formative years.
Day Four: Thursday September 11, 2025
Today's goal was simple: Move from campsite 9A4 to campsite 9B1 -- Lower Boundary Creek. It would be an eight mile day retracing our steps down the Boundary Creek Trail to Dunanda Falls, then covering new territory crossing the Bechler Meadows.
Hugh thought these flowers near Boundary Creek resembled eggs (I think). I thought they looked like miniature snapdragons. Maybe we could call them dragon eggs?
Several good mudholes are on the trail south of campsite 9A4. Hugh almost lost one of his water shoes in the muck during this crossing yesterday.
I convinced the crew that Dunanda Falls was a worthy stop for a lunch break. A group of lady day hikers were celebrating a birthday when we arrived -- the birthday girl was even wearing a sash and crown. I took a group photo for them when I walked by to take a few more pictures of the falls. We stayed out of the water this time and simply enjoyed being in the presence of the thundering force of the falls complimented by the delicate feel of mist on the skin.
The sun was shining as we headed for the Bechler Meadows, but clouds were building on the horizon and the next hours on the trail would involve an interesting mix of sun, rain, hail, and sun. Complicated and somehow satisfying.
One of several crossings. We were able to keep our boots on (and not change into water shoes) the rest of the way to 9B1.
Clouds building in one direction, sun shining in the other.
When the hail started we all stopped to don our rain gear and Patrick's poncho made another appearance. Luckily for him there were no bison wandering the Bechler Meadows to admire the large, blue hump it created over his pack. I think there is still a broken-hearted Bison wandering Pelican Valley somewhere that caught a glimpse of that sapphire tinted curvature of anatomy on his back -- the Bison followed but could not catch what it desired several years ago.
One of my favorite pictures of Day Four.
We all made it to camp, dodged a rain shower or two, then enjoyed festivities in the community area.
There was a beer chugging competition.
A peanut eating contest.
And a bet to see who could add the most Tabasco sauce to his freeze-dried meal. Patrick won that one. Note the bottle in his hand and steady stream of sauce finding its way into the pouch.
After dinner we enjoyed the reflections in Boundary Creek and the warmth of the sun as it set behind the clouds.
Day Five: Friday, September 12, 2025
Day five was a short distance day to get to the Bechler Ranger Station. Patrick and Cody took the more direct route while Hugh and I chose the path that followed the Bechler River for a distance. It had been cold overnight, so much so that a thin mist rose from the warmer waters of Boundary Creek.
The Bechler River was in no hurry to get where it was going and provided some nice morning reflections around this curve.
I know Hugh's knee had been hurting this entire trip, but you'd never know it by the pleasant demeanor and pseudo smile he carried with him everywhere. A lot of respect and admiration for one tough cookie.
One last look at the Bechler River before ducking into the forest.
Not far from the ranger station one walks thru a stand of lodgepole pine that I found special. I've walked thru many wooded parts of Yellowstone but this one definitely felt different somehow. Everything was so vertical, so symmetric, so alive . . as if there was a touch of magic involved in its creation. One of those things that is difficult to put into words, but you feel when you are in the midst of it.
We arrived back at the Bechler Ranger Station and capped of a fabulous year of Yellowstone Experiences in 2025.
Hugh drove back up with us to West Yellowstone where we met Bob and Mrs. Bob for burgers at Hank's Chop Shop. . . we were almost becoming regulars at this point. Hugh then headed back to SLC while Cody, Patrick, and I overnighted in Mammoth and watched the elk chase foolish tourists around.
A great end to a great trip; looking forward to having similar experiences in 2026 if the powers that be will allow it.
THE END.
Unless you want to watch the video, in which case here you go:
Trip Reports Here: Part One and Part Two
On September 7th Hugh and I were back in Yellowstone with two friends I brought from home. We enjoyed a day hike from the Cygnet Lakes TH to Mary Mountain East TH.
Trip Report: Cygnet TH to Mary Mountain TH
We followed that day hike up with a backpacking trip in the Southwest corner of the park. We planned a route that would take us from Buffalo Lake down to the Bechler Ranger Station. Normally this route would necessitate a vehicle shuttle, but we had the good fortune of @Bob being a local. He volunteered to come with us for the first night and in turn drive us to the trailhead. I would have liked it if Bob could have accompanied us for the entire route, but winter was on the horizon and he had tasks that needed accomplished back at home. At least that is what he told us. . . I suppose that sounds better than him saying he had to wash his hair.
For those that might prefer a video to a written trip report of this trip, I will add a link at the end of this post.
Day One: Monday, September 8, 2025
So bright and early Monday Hugh, Patrick, Cody, and I left the comfort of the Old Faithful Inn Cabins to drive West into the land they call Idaho. We drove to Bob Manor, a lovely home nestled in the trees of Island Park. Bob then led us South with a quick stop at Upper and Lower Mesa Falls before we turned onto Cave Falls Road and reentered Yellowstone. We parked the Subaru and my rental car at the Bechler Ranger Station, then Bob drove all of us up the road to take a look at Cave Falls. I know Hugh will never admit it, but I bet the touristy tour of all the waterfalls was one of his favorite parts of the trip.
Upper Mesa Falls (left) and Lower Mesa Falls (right).
Getting ready at the Bechler Ranger Station.
Cave Falls.
From Cave Falls Bob drove old forest roads to a pullout in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest West of Yellowstone. This is where the backcountry portion of the trip begins as we followed an old logging road into the columns of trees growing after the area was logged or burned by the North Fork Fire in 1988 (or both).
The road quickly narrowed down into a single track and continued thru forested terrain all the way to Buffalo Lake.
Buffalo Lake in the distance.
A deer ran across our path while we were checking out the Buffalo Lake Patrol Cabin. I think Bob said he did not see the deer. . . probably because he was looking in the wrong direction.
I was not sure what to expect from Buffalo Lake. I knew it was remote and off the beaten track. It turned out to be an enjoyable destination and Campsite 9A5 was the perfect spot to take in reflections.
YouTube Short:
Camp setup in the trees; plenty of tent sites here.
I did not manage to catch a group shot before we set out, so dinner on our first night will have to suffice.
Every year I manage to forget something before heading into the backcountry -- no matter how much I plan. Sometimes it is something trivial like an extra camera battery or a fourth pair of socks. This year around dinner time I realized I forgot something much more critical. . . my water filter. I had stashed it into my day pack when we hiked Hayden Valley the day before and I missed transferring it over to the big pack. Luckily, I had brought friends with me and Cody had packed his water filter -- we would have to rely on the Survivimate pump filter (or Hugh's Steri-Pen) the rest of the trip. For the record, no negative consequences to report several months out.
Night one was peaceful at Buffalo Lake. A flock of geese took up residence on the lake and provided an early morning wake up call. I remember the morning being chilly, but not cold.
Day Two: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Day two Breakfast:
We had a bit of a lazy morning before walking back towards the Buffalo Lake Patrol Cabin to see Bob off. As we were walking along the lakeshore, I caught this picture of the gang behind me. . . and I could not help but think something was missing. . .
And then it occurred to me. This was the classic scene from many a movie where the heroes are walking away from conflict after saving the day and never looking back. All that was missing was. . .
An Explosion!
My mind is a complicated place. What can I say.
Hugh, Cody, Patrick, and I said our goodbyes to Bob and continued on the Boundary Creek Trail towards our next campsite: 9A4.
The trail from Buffalo Lake stayed in the trees and occasionally encountered creek beds -- all of which were dry by this time of year.
Cody, Patrick, and I were slightly ahead of Hugh. When we caught up, he told us a Grizzly Bear ran down one of the dry creek beds. I'd have to guess this was probably his second favorite part of the trip (right after the waterfall touristy stuff).
I had hoped to see a waterfall that is on a tributary of Boundary Creek, but just like the creek beds we found it dry. There was still a pool of water at what would be the base of the falls.
I was bummed about the waterfall, but knew we were hiking towards some interesting thermal features so the disappointment was short lived. The Boundary Creek Trail passes right thru two different thermal areas. The park has posted signs prohibiting horses/stock from travelling on this part of the trail in fear they might fall thru the thermal crusts. We took a break here to investigate some of the interesting features.
Water levels were low enough that many of the features were emitting steam.
Several areas held very hot, flowing water -- sometimes flowing right out of the hillside.
Taking a break and eating some Okra.
I took a walk down the hillside and found a spot where Rick Hutchinson had been studying geothermal activity in the area. This weir is a remnant of his work.
One last look down a thermal expanse as it heads down to Boundary Creek. I will admit I was tempted to follow it down to the creek to see if the water was warm enough to take a soak in the creek. . . I put it on the someday list instead.
A more colorful portion of the thermals.
We crossed Boundary Creek shortly after leaving the thermal areas. It followed a meandering path and we would catch glimpses of it on the way to the campsite.
Campsite 9A4 is known as "Talus Terrace." Large piles of talus rose on our left side as we approached camp. I took this picture looking back, because the sun was in my eyes facing forward.
Backcountry campsite 9A4 sits close to Boundary Creek. Recent improvements appear to be a newer bear pole and a pit toilet -- a luxury we were not expecting. Tent sites were not so obvious, but we found places amongst the gnarled trees at the base of the likely avalanche prone terrace.
My tent: REI Quarter Dome SL 1, then Hugh's tent: REI Quarter Dome 1.
Cody's tent, then Patrick's. . . tarp.
We dodged some raindrops before dinner. Cody and I hung out at the eating area while Hugh may have been taking a nap or was out exploring. After a period of time Patrick showed up looking very pleased with himself. He announced that he had taken a bath in the creek and was feeling quite refreshed. Sitting in my camp chair, I casually asked him if he checked for leeches. The look on his face instantly changed from satisfaction to concern. "Leeches?" he asked. "Oh, yes," I said, "there can be leeches in the water around here. Right on cue, Cody chipped in. "Yeah, you know they tend to congregate around the nether regions." What happened next was a flurry of Patrick trying to undress and inspect himself for any unwanted companions. Cody and I eventually cracked a smile, laughed and reassured Patrick he had nothing to worry about before seeing too much. (But seriously, check yourself for leeches if you go swimming.)
Hugh eventually showed up, and we were able to enjoy dinner without rain falling on us.
Day Three: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
We had Campsite 9A4 reserved for two nights. That meant that on day three we could leave the heavy stuff in camp and take a day hike to the destination of our choosing. Hugh and I planned an off-trail route that took us across the talus to the Valley of Death Thermal Area, followed a path down to Silver Scarf Falls, moved over to Dunanda Falls, then returned to camp via the Boundary Creek Trail. I posted a report covering this day hike earlier, so I will post a link and fewer pictures here than usual.
Day Three Full Length Trip Report: Day Three Day Hike
The short(er) version.
Views as we headed up the talus slope across from camp.
In hindsight, a more practical route could easily be taken to our eventual destination. . . but where is the fun in that?
We made it across the rocks without dropping anything in them or twisting an ankle. We found our way to the "Valley of Death" thermal area at the upper reaches of Silver Scarf Creek.
I found this area fascinating but did not feel the need to get close and play hopscotch with unstable thermal ground.
We worked our way to Silver Scarf Falls, taking in views of the Tetons along the way.
Snack break at Silver Scarf Falls.
This was our view. Not too shabby.
Then the highlight of the trip for me; a visit to Dunanda Falls and a soak in the warm waters below it.
We lucked out and had the falls mostly to ourselves. Two day hikers were there when we arrived, but they left not long after. I'd like to think it was nothing personal.
We stayed at the falls for a good amount of time. We (I) begrudgingly headed back to camp when the clouds overhead thickened and threatened rain.
There are many interesting waterfalls and cascades on Boundary Creek between Dunanda and campsite 9A4. You have to leave the trail to look over the canyon wall to see most of them.
We made it back to camp without getting rained on and the skies even opened to let a little sunshine thru. Hugh kept us entertained over dinner with stories of adventure and Howard Eaton Trail lore that took place during his formative years.
Day Four: Thursday September 11, 2025
Today's goal was simple: Move from campsite 9A4 to campsite 9B1 -- Lower Boundary Creek. It would be an eight mile day retracing our steps down the Boundary Creek Trail to Dunanda Falls, then covering new territory crossing the Bechler Meadows.
Hugh thought these flowers near Boundary Creek resembled eggs (I think). I thought they looked like miniature snapdragons. Maybe we could call them dragon eggs?
Several good mudholes are on the trail south of campsite 9A4. Hugh almost lost one of his water shoes in the muck during this crossing yesterday.
I convinced the crew that Dunanda Falls was a worthy stop for a lunch break. A group of lady day hikers were celebrating a birthday when we arrived -- the birthday girl was even wearing a sash and crown. I took a group photo for them when I walked by to take a few more pictures of the falls. We stayed out of the water this time and simply enjoyed being in the presence of the thundering force of the falls complimented by the delicate feel of mist on the skin.
The sun was shining as we headed for the Bechler Meadows, but clouds were building on the horizon and the next hours on the trail would involve an interesting mix of sun, rain, hail, and sun. Complicated and somehow satisfying.
One of several crossings. We were able to keep our boots on (and not change into water shoes) the rest of the way to 9B1.
Clouds building in one direction, sun shining in the other.
When the hail started we all stopped to don our rain gear and Patrick's poncho made another appearance. Luckily for him there were no bison wandering the Bechler Meadows to admire the large, blue hump it created over his pack. I think there is still a broken-hearted Bison wandering Pelican Valley somewhere that caught a glimpse of that sapphire tinted curvature of anatomy on his back -- the Bison followed but could not catch what it desired several years ago.
One of my favorite pictures of Day Four.
We all made it to camp, dodged a rain shower or two, then enjoyed festivities in the community area.
There was a beer chugging competition.
A peanut eating contest.
And a bet to see who could add the most Tabasco sauce to his freeze-dried meal. Patrick won that one. Note the bottle in his hand and steady stream of sauce finding its way into the pouch.
After dinner we enjoyed the reflections in Boundary Creek and the warmth of the sun as it set behind the clouds.
Day Five: Friday, September 12, 2025
Day five was a short distance day to get to the Bechler Ranger Station. Patrick and Cody took the more direct route while Hugh and I chose the path that followed the Bechler River for a distance. It had been cold overnight, so much so that a thin mist rose from the warmer waters of Boundary Creek.
The Bechler River was in no hurry to get where it was going and provided some nice morning reflections around this curve.
I know Hugh's knee had been hurting this entire trip, but you'd never know it by the pleasant demeanor and pseudo smile he carried with him everywhere. A lot of respect and admiration for one tough cookie.
One last look at the Bechler River before ducking into the forest.
Not far from the ranger station one walks thru a stand of lodgepole pine that I found special. I've walked thru many wooded parts of Yellowstone but this one definitely felt different somehow. Everything was so vertical, so symmetric, so alive . . as if there was a touch of magic involved in its creation. One of those things that is difficult to put into words, but you feel when you are in the midst of it.
We arrived back at the Bechler Ranger Station and capped of a fabulous year of Yellowstone Experiences in 2025.
Hugh drove back up with us to West Yellowstone where we met Bob and Mrs. Bob for burgers at Hank's Chop Shop. . . we were almost becoming regulars at this point. Hugh then headed back to SLC while Cody, Patrick, and I overnighted in Mammoth and watched the elk chase foolish tourists around.
A great end to a great trip; looking forward to having similar experiences in 2026 if the powers that be will allow it.
THE END.
Unless you want to watch the video, in which case here you go:
