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- Dec 23, 2013
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I had originally intended to hike to Plateau Lake back in the spring of 2015 as part of my off-trail loop around the upper Firehole River Drainage. I had reserved the campsite at Summit Lake for two nights and had hoped to day hike from there to Plateau Lake, which was approximately 13 miles round trip. Instead, I only made it as far as Smoke Jumper Hot Springs that day. I didn't feel like I had enough gas left in my tank to make it the 13 miles across the burn to reach Plateau. So essentially, this trip was planned to reach Plateau Lake and check off what I didn't complete three years ago. My family decide to keep me company on this trip and on our third day we did an off-trail hike to Buffalo Meadows.
Now, right off the bat, this is going to be a long report so for those who don't like to wade through such things, I apologize.
Day 1 - Our trip began by driving up to West Yellowstone on the 26th where we picked up our backcountry permit before heading on to Madison Campground at Madison Junction to stay for the night. While at the campground, we did a small day hike to Harlequin Lake which is located just off the west entrance road. The lake itself is a nice lily pad covered one with plenty of ducks weaving their way through the pads. Because the lake is so close to the road though, you tend to hear quite a bit of traffic, which takes away from the experience in my opinion.
Map of Madison Campground and Harlequin Lake
![Harlequin_Lake_01.jpg Harlequin_Lake_01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67115-731d017b3a547c214fafcc3866800eb1.jpg)
Harlequin Lake
Day 2 - On the morning of the 27th, we woke up early and headed towards Biscuit Basin where our trailhead was located. For those not familiar with Yellowstone, Biscuit Basin is a thermal area and is a pretty popular place with the tourists. I wanted to get there early enough so that I wasn't fighting for a parking spot near the trailhead. Fortunately, I was able to park in the stall right next to the trailhead.
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67027-9346020e9b9d418ff844d1b13f2c3ad6.jpg)
View from the Biscuit Basin Trailhead of the Firehole River, a portion of the thermal basin and in the distance, the Madison Plateau
![Plateau_Lake_Trip_Overview.jpg Plateau_Lake_Trip_Overview.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67028-395c527622d20aa79ffca2c75c685e76.jpg)
Trip overview map - we stayed at campsite 0D2 for two nights, then moved to 0D3 for the third night.
On our second day, we will be hiking in 5.8 miles from the Biscuit Basin Trailhead to the Little Firehole Meadows and campsite 0D2. The hike begins with making one's way through the hot pots in Biscuit Basin on a boardwalk. I call this hiking in style!
Once off the boardwalk, we made our way along the Little Firehole River towards the base of the Madison Plateau and Mystic Falls.
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67029-23dca7fb7c83a83f60b27615888b860b.jpg)
Backpacking in style through Biscuit Basin.
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67030-250c775ea0c44400717bc89f46daa92e.jpg)
One of the many hot pools in the basin.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67031-ab91ad5f9f2ab1f9b3acb2c4ec41ea24.jpg)
Hiking along the Little Firehole River towards Mystic Falls
Mystic Falls is another popular tourist destination in the park, but we were lucky for a second time and had the falls to ourselves as we made our way up the switchbacks and onto the plateau.
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67032-97f5d50794e7999a5d3ed1f9e6fab91f.jpg)
Approaching the lower portion of Mystic Falls
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67033-e6a097a62c94e41fbb8b331cc202dd16.jpg)
Another shot of Mystic Falls
![07.jpg 07.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67034-ba6edc40018f19391fbc89718008d52b.jpg)
Making our way up the switchbacks and onto the Madison Plateau. Who was the genius that put this hill here in the first place?![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Once on top of the plateau, we had a nice view back to the southeast and Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful. At this point, the trail starts its way through the old burn from 1988. I must say though, the new lodgepoles are starting to get tall enough to provide a little bit of shade in some spots.
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67035-5c788ca4faee722e42e18fd03413b73c.jpg)
Looking down on the Little Firehole and a portion of Upper Geyser Basin in the distance.
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67036-eca05176725c5e0f453832ed9af45181.jpg)
Typical trail conditions on top of the plateau
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67037-9ebc89d54a694f492c1e40027b20858f.jpg)
Lots of Lupine along the trail
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67038-4c4383263f03688fb676e0ee14166c57.jpg)
Lots of pitchstone along our route too
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67039-0635222b76b130d5bf2f0db49075d59e.jpg)
Starting to open up a bit to the south at this point along the trail
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67040-f5734f78d2d3add817d9873c6c55c6bf.jpg)
View to the north with 30 year old snags and new growth. Gotta love it!
Eventually, we began to drop off the plateau and back down to the Little Firehole River and on to the Little Firehole Meadows where our first campsite was located.
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67041-6b5d2244f02d91fdc65527c5f5cfb53e.jpg)
Beginning our descent back down to the Little Firehole River - In the distance you can see the ridge that we will be hiking along to get to Plateau Lake on our next day.
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67042-d25bad0c8a3817ba8a1ede09683ab3e2.jpg)
Back along the Little Firehole River
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67043-feeaf2f677d363ec48768f28daff2a2f.jpg)
The southern portion of the Little Firehole Meadows
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67044-7fe774e6056bff1f279a472ffbec9559.jpg)
Setting up camp at the edge of the meadows at campsite 0D2
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67045-d0c4a28f10b0a1a8c09970a528b1fc40.jpg)
Our tent - Scatwoman with her Flash18 - We use our Flash18s as pillows.
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67046-c56ea3894a02ecd679caf554f2bd4b6b.jpg)
Yummy - eating dinner
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67047-1d3b596fb3b4d566e35b25689cb20fe1.jpg)
A look down on the Little Firehole River beginning to wind its way through the meadows in the evening
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67048-3e35f95007ef05ef5b6dd12b6c534386.jpg)
Sunset over the Little Firehole Meadows
Day 3 - Well, this is the big day for me, the bushwhack to Plateau Lake. My wife decide that she didn't want to deal with the terrain and the nonexistent trail, so she stayed at camp while the kids and I would attempt the lake.
We would first head west, across the Little Firehole Meadows and hookup with an unnamed stream and follow it up the drainage. As the drainage curves back around to the south, we would leave the drainage and make our way up and onto the plateau, then head slightly southwest to Plateau Lake.
As we made our way along, we saw a marten (pretty cool) and couple of pikas as we made our way up the plateau. The wildflowers were tremendous along the streams and finger meadows. We also encountered a whole lot of marsh along the way. More on that later.
![Plateau_Lake_Day_Hike_01.jpg Plateau_Lake_Day_Hike_01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67049-94528230e2dcc425caf9e162affe1ea5.jpg)
Day hike to Plateau Lake overview - We ended up hiking back a different way for part of the way back to camp.
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67050-bc2426be56176780961b685280d1cbca.jpg)
Looking west across the Little Firehole Meadows in the morning - ready for a big day.
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67051-2799dd34d29e6e3b78cc33e568856034.jpg)
Making our way through the big meadow. It was very marshy in spots and we pretty much started off with wet feet. We are heading towards a finger meadow and the stream we will be following up the drainage.
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67052-7a75d7352d02f576fbf61a09d2dd9908.jpg)
Entering the finger meadow.
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67053-ad5b451756f3a110c3759998e72f0169.jpg)
Other than being marshy in places, it is easy hiking at this point.
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67054-3c696c0edd361ea48e6edfecbe00693e.jpg)
Nothing like a good picture of the backside of the Scatman.![Er... what? o_O o_O](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67055-13eec1266826d159f8790fb1d97fa46e.jpg)
A Marten, peaking around the tree at us.
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67056-e1cc9989f0faaa7a7c80734d1179c084.jpg)
It's wondering, "Who are these people?"
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67057-ad764f8c8790ca52235faffb73d888d8.jpg)
The path ahead
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67058-41879eb2589bc141197a14e14bcacc06.jpg)
A sense of some of the marshiness along the way
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67059-0fbdc5edb5913253805ecd56cc6a247d.jpg)
Paintbrush
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67060-1f8f3ad0cf95b896712828564be6f749.jpg)
A lone snag - I don't know why, but I like this shot
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67061-cb6fa4965f7e249cf05860452b101026.jpg)
Ha, I taught him everything he knows. Boy is he in trouble!![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67062-22dff21e6ebf67f63006980a691d441d.jpg)
More path ahead - starting to see more downfall
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67063-6b64de63d7abb5ef4cbb1dccda040f82.jpg)
Monkeyflower
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67064-45e812b571be570f1b773c5f7b9b053d.jpg)
More wildflowers
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67065-d51b93aa670abfaff4076ab01e60d887.jpg)
Our stream is starting to get pretty small at this point and we are taking a break to refill our water bottles while we can. At this point we are nearing the point when we will turn up and start climbing up the plateau.
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67066-a0a313cbd9693269861966a9c61f0cbf.jpg)
Aargh!
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67067-321a657c2e9e8355d306430105274719.jpg)
Kids have spotted one of the two Pikas that we encountered in this rock field
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67068-a7eaa88ac2ae2d671096d6e1ad4a35c2.jpg)
Up the plateau! Another Aargh from me.
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67069-e02c9dcbade81ed0cde03b374192efac.jpg)
View looking back down into the drainage. See a Pika?
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67070-6b17c383cecac942b2f46b6147f01ebe.jpg)
This is what the top of the Madison Plateau looks like 30 years after the fire. Lots of sticks on the ground.
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67071-c652853702f9ed31dc1671fa830b0993.jpg)
A well deserved break.![Scatman :scatman: :scatman:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67072-40a951a7deb294c3cb7d88fa1f408031.jpg)
Way off in the distance and kind of hard to see is Mount Sheridan
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67073-3489b52b3d9e226b451aaf9fe7636ce0.jpg)
First glimpse of Plateau Lake through the trees - Hallelujah!:twothumbs:
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67074-8b4d35f76202a20ad82b83b1b8848ab7.jpg)
Plateau Lake
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67075-c0d823d1da91d15fc7b381c4f3feca27.jpg)
Plateau Lake
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67076-993f93219d80156e0db630efca4b391d.jpg)
The north shore of Plateau Lake
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67077-7fbb1824a6456742908a45b3ba5f53fd.jpg)
And one last shot of the lake. Isn't this exciting?![Speechless :speechless: :speechless:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
It took us 5.5 hours to reach the lake and after taking some pictures, we ate a quick lunch then started our way back to camp. On our way back, we encountered a heavy thunderstorm that dumped on us for about twenty minutes. The lightning was fun to watch though. Also, we encountered some extreme marsh that left me wondering if I was going to make it back to camp at all. We also had the pleasure of seeing a Golden Eagle on our route back to Little Firehole Meadows.
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67082-a9c722f23d057090294d10f2db18df4b.jpg)
Somebody needs to enlighten me on this marker. We found it just southeast of Plateau Lake. Is it an old state boundary marker of some sort even though the state boundary is a good ways off to the west? @Artemus ?
![50b.jpg 50b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67078-a80d8949383ff4db68cf5ca354a14e2f.jpg)
The way back to camp - nothing but downfall. Double Aargh!
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67079-e3a2fae0d6c2e67bd55dceece353a7e5.jpg)
This way kids.
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67080-eddf421bab423f0fcbfe7b07c5c60131.jpg)
Fireweed
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67081-e26e7f2b06ddb3c682145944a511aa4f.jpg)
How old is this fire ring. There are actually two sitting rocks, one of which is barely visible in the lower right of the image that new trees are growing between them and the ring. Back in the day, this would have require Deputy Scatman to arrest someone. @Rockskipper and @Miya
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67083-0aa08c1226ef2c5b0d1ad7836fa3de9c.jpg)
The view after the thunderstorm had passed overhead.
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67084-3054d029f68ac56b80eb67236da6f92b.jpg)
Thermal features we encountered on our way back to camp.
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67085-9218238a0e27003cb06f80d24732882a.jpg)
Thermal feature
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67086-70bf24191d55a72ce53ba4fee1b18404.jpg)
Thermal feature
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67087-d662120a8baad51e82a82f45e895bb6a.jpg)
Scatman down! Scat Jr. down too! Ha Ha! I promise you, it looked like solid ground.![Help :help: :help:](/addedsmilies/help.gif)
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67088-b15fe20610789791284502f1be4e4d01.jpg)
Look closely at this shot.
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67089-eb536fe48c8d767e913d0606d8d0cae3.jpg)
Close up of above image - I am waist deep in the muck. I tried to plant my hiking poles, but they went all the way in. I essentially had to swim out of this predicament. I almost lost both hiking shoes in this. Lesson learned. Not!![Uh huh :uhhuh: :uhhuh:](/addedsmilies/uhhuh.gif)
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67091-c511cdf925f6d7d5e5070606c928e9d3.jpg)
Kids getting a kick out of my foolishness.![Mad :mad: :mad:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67090-99da52e397ec9facb8760e34ed6ebd08.jpg)
I haven't mentioned mosquitoes yet. This shot says it all.
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67092-d96b15367a9462cba8e98806721bd104.jpg)
The tents are within reach! Our ten hour hike is almost complete. I'm pooped.![Sleep :sleep: :sleep:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Day 4 - We had to pick up and move camp this morning, back to campsite 0D3. After moving camp, we did an off-trail day hike to Buffalo Meadows which was roughly 7 miles round trip.
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67093-9712ab5b14162a0410bf3f971930145b.jpg)
Packing up camp at 0D2
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67094-e3e63735c2c1a2ab3c41d1cef9c10256.jpg)
Monkshood
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67095-b3ec1252f735f5e54e0bccfb38665873.jpg)
Campsite sign for 0D3
![Buffalo_Meadows_Day_Hike_01.jpg Buffalo_Meadows_Day_Hike_01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67108-ffc4f4730847691643bafaf0d4313740.jpg)
Overview map of day hike to Buffalo Meadows
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67096-7454d833069ca59c5f27c13c9388251a.jpg)
On our way to Buffalo Meadows - we are heading towards the notch in the ridge.
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67097-ccbb33658b0ea95e04ba78486a5c66f0.jpg)
The stream that flows from Buffalo Meadows that we will attempt to follow.
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67098-a81f6630e19f7bdd1173fd25d5e8900e.jpg)
Beautiful country
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67099-f69ff87c71633b02863b359816ce5981.jpg)
I don't believe this town is big enough for the two of us!
Hey, don't be lookin' up my kilt!
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67100-1b061fff7ffcd76396885f321e13532f.jpg)
We had to cross this stream numerous times
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67101-0c6cb612ea13fcddc32b43afc8fbc438.jpg)
Entering Buffalo Meadows
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67102-b323fc741ce52c158eca7bdc4c614736.jpg)
Buffalo Meadows in all its glory.
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67103-67410a615ccc6371d0756bf77e14f7da.jpg)
On our way back to camp. We had to gain the ridge because we cliffed-out following the stream.
We passed the two gentlemen that took over campsite 0D2 on our way back to 0D3. I asked them if they had dinner ready for us. Their answer was unsatisfactory to say the least!
Deputy Scatman!
Day 5 - Packed up and headed back to the trailhead
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67104-6a6e8dd31c04a8b6b469d314e8e4889b.jpg)
Getting ready for breakfast
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67105-763550defd8a69e0f90f6307e1013cd4.jpg)
Little Firehole Falls at campsite 0D3. There is a great swimming hole here for those who like to swim.
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67106-55a5e36e08b88cca786e676774e62e2c.jpg)
Slow down you move too fast, got to make the morning last, just kicking down the cobblestone, looking for fun and feeling groovy.
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67107-fa9d7290ee1e0db7fac895ec582de535.jpg)
Old Faithful and upper Geyser Basin.
Well, it turned out to be a great trip. The temperatures were perfect, low to mid seventies during the day and right around freezing at night. We actually had some frost on our rainfly in the morning while camped at the meadow. The weather cooperated too with only a couple of afternoon thunderstorms to deal with. A reasonably good short trip for those who are interested.
If I've made any spelling errors throughout this report, let me know and I will go in and change them. I'm too lazy to go back and check. Thanks.
The End
Now, right off the bat, this is going to be a long report so for those who don't like to wade through such things, I apologize.
Day 1 - Our trip began by driving up to West Yellowstone on the 26th where we picked up our backcountry permit before heading on to Madison Campground at Madison Junction to stay for the night. While at the campground, we did a small day hike to Harlequin Lake which is located just off the west entrance road. The lake itself is a nice lily pad covered one with plenty of ducks weaving their way through the pads. Because the lake is so close to the road though, you tend to hear quite a bit of traffic, which takes away from the experience in my opinion.
![Harlequin_Lake.jpg Harlequin_Lake.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67026-7c6df30c4ebf92cf4d7a9b449872a1a3.jpg)
![Harlequin_Lake_01.jpg Harlequin_Lake_01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67115-731d017b3a547c214fafcc3866800eb1.jpg)
Harlequin Lake
Day 2 - On the morning of the 27th, we woke up early and headed towards Biscuit Basin where our trailhead was located. For those not familiar with Yellowstone, Biscuit Basin is a thermal area and is a pretty popular place with the tourists. I wanted to get there early enough so that I wasn't fighting for a parking spot near the trailhead. Fortunately, I was able to park in the stall right next to the trailhead.
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67027-9346020e9b9d418ff844d1b13f2c3ad6.jpg)
View from the Biscuit Basin Trailhead of the Firehole River, a portion of the thermal basin and in the distance, the Madison Plateau
![Plateau_Lake_Trip_Overview.jpg Plateau_Lake_Trip_Overview.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67028-395c527622d20aa79ffca2c75c685e76.jpg)
Trip overview map - we stayed at campsite 0D2 for two nights, then moved to 0D3 for the third night.
On our second day, we will be hiking in 5.8 miles from the Biscuit Basin Trailhead to the Little Firehole Meadows and campsite 0D2. The hike begins with making one's way through the hot pots in Biscuit Basin on a boardwalk. I call this hiking in style!
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67029-23dca7fb7c83a83f60b27615888b860b.jpg)
Backpacking in style through Biscuit Basin.
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67030-250c775ea0c44400717bc89f46daa92e.jpg)
One of the many hot pools in the basin.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67031-ab91ad5f9f2ab1f9b3acb2c4ec41ea24.jpg)
Hiking along the Little Firehole River towards Mystic Falls
Mystic Falls is another popular tourist destination in the park, but we were lucky for a second time and had the falls to ourselves as we made our way up the switchbacks and onto the plateau.
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67032-97f5d50794e7999a5d3ed1f9e6fab91f.jpg)
Approaching the lower portion of Mystic Falls
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67033-e6a097a62c94e41fbb8b331cc202dd16.jpg)
Another shot of Mystic Falls
![07.jpg 07.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67034-ba6edc40018f19391fbc89718008d52b.jpg)
Making our way up the switchbacks and onto the Madison Plateau. Who was the genius that put this hill here in the first place?
Once on top of the plateau, we had a nice view back to the southeast and Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful. At this point, the trail starts its way through the old burn from 1988. I must say though, the new lodgepoles are starting to get tall enough to provide a little bit of shade in some spots.
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67035-5c788ca4faee722e42e18fd03413b73c.jpg)
Looking down on the Little Firehole and a portion of Upper Geyser Basin in the distance.
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67036-eca05176725c5e0f453832ed9af45181.jpg)
Typical trail conditions on top of the plateau
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67037-9ebc89d54a694f492c1e40027b20858f.jpg)
Lots of Lupine along the trail
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67038-4c4383263f03688fb676e0ee14166c57.jpg)
Lots of pitchstone along our route too
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67039-0635222b76b130d5bf2f0db49075d59e.jpg)
Starting to open up a bit to the south at this point along the trail
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67040-f5734f78d2d3add817d9873c6c55c6bf.jpg)
View to the north with 30 year old snags and new growth. Gotta love it!
Eventually, we began to drop off the plateau and back down to the Little Firehole River and on to the Little Firehole Meadows where our first campsite was located.
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67041-6b5d2244f02d91fdc65527c5f5cfb53e.jpg)
Beginning our descent back down to the Little Firehole River - In the distance you can see the ridge that we will be hiking along to get to Plateau Lake on our next day.
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67042-d25bad0c8a3817ba8a1ede09683ab3e2.jpg)
Back along the Little Firehole River
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67043-feeaf2f677d363ec48768f28daff2a2f.jpg)
The southern portion of the Little Firehole Meadows
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67044-7fe774e6056bff1f279a472ffbec9559.jpg)
Setting up camp at the edge of the meadows at campsite 0D2
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67045-d0c4a28f10b0a1a8c09970a528b1fc40.jpg)
Our tent - Scatwoman with her Flash18 - We use our Flash18s as pillows.
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67046-c56ea3894a02ecd679caf554f2bd4b6b.jpg)
Yummy - eating dinner
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67047-1d3b596fb3b4d566e35b25689cb20fe1.jpg)
A look down on the Little Firehole River beginning to wind its way through the meadows in the evening
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67048-3e35f95007ef05ef5b6dd12b6c534386.jpg)
Sunset over the Little Firehole Meadows
Day 3 - Well, this is the big day for me, the bushwhack to Plateau Lake. My wife decide that she didn't want to deal with the terrain and the nonexistent trail, so she stayed at camp while the kids and I would attempt the lake.
We would first head west, across the Little Firehole Meadows and hookup with an unnamed stream and follow it up the drainage. As the drainage curves back around to the south, we would leave the drainage and make our way up and onto the plateau, then head slightly southwest to Plateau Lake.
As we made our way along, we saw a marten (pretty cool) and couple of pikas as we made our way up the plateau. The wildflowers were tremendous along the streams and finger meadows. We also encountered a whole lot of marsh along the way. More on that later.
![Plateau_Lake_Day_Hike_01.jpg Plateau_Lake_Day_Hike_01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67049-94528230e2dcc425caf9e162affe1ea5.jpg)
Day hike to Plateau Lake overview - We ended up hiking back a different way for part of the way back to camp.
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67050-bc2426be56176780961b685280d1cbca.jpg)
Looking west across the Little Firehole Meadows in the morning - ready for a big day.
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67051-2799dd34d29e6e3b78cc33e568856034.jpg)
Making our way through the big meadow. It was very marshy in spots and we pretty much started off with wet feet. We are heading towards a finger meadow and the stream we will be following up the drainage.
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67052-7a75d7352d02f576fbf61a09d2dd9908.jpg)
Entering the finger meadow.
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67053-ad5b451756f3a110c3759998e72f0169.jpg)
Other than being marshy in places, it is easy hiking at this point.
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67054-3c696c0edd361ea48e6edfecbe00693e.jpg)
Nothing like a good picture of the backside of the Scatman.
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67055-13eec1266826d159f8790fb1d97fa46e.jpg)
A Marten, peaking around the tree at us.
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67056-e1cc9989f0faaa7a7c80734d1179c084.jpg)
It's wondering, "Who are these people?"
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67057-ad764f8c8790ca52235faffb73d888d8.jpg)
The path ahead
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67058-41879eb2589bc141197a14e14bcacc06.jpg)
A sense of some of the marshiness along the way
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67059-0fbdc5edb5913253805ecd56cc6a247d.jpg)
Paintbrush
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67060-1f8f3ad0cf95b896712828564be6f749.jpg)
A lone snag - I don't know why, but I like this shot
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67061-cb6fa4965f7e249cf05860452b101026.jpg)
Ha, I taught him everything he knows. Boy is he in trouble!
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67062-22dff21e6ebf67f63006980a691d441d.jpg)
More path ahead - starting to see more downfall
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67063-6b64de63d7abb5ef4cbb1dccda040f82.jpg)
Monkeyflower
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67064-45e812b571be570f1b773c5f7b9b053d.jpg)
More wildflowers
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67065-d51b93aa670abfaff4076ab01e60d887.jpg)
Our stream is starting to get pretty small at this point and we are taking a break to refill our water bottles while we can. At this point we are nearing the point when we will turn up and start climbing up the plateau.
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67066-a0a313cbd9693269861966a9c61f0cbf.jpg)
Aargh!
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67067-321a657c2e9e8355d306430105274719.jpg)
Kids have spotted one of the two Pikas that we encountered in this rock field
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67068-a7eaa88ac2ae2d671096d6e1ad4a35c2.jpg)
Up the plateau! Another Aargh from me.
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67069-e02c9dcbade81ed0cde03b374192efac.jpg)
View looking back down into the drainage. See a Pika?
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67070-6b17c383cecac942b2f46b6147f01ebe.jpg)
This is what the top of the Madison Plateau looks like 30 years after the fire. Lots of sticks on the ground.
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67071-c652853702f9ed31dc1671fa830b0993.jpg)
A well deserved break.
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67072-40a951a7deb294c3cb7d88fa1f408031.jpg)
Way off in the distance and kind of hard to see is Mount Sheridan
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67073-3489b52b3d9e226b451aaf9fe7636ce0.jpg)
First glimpse of Plateau Lake through the trees - Hallelujah!:twothumbs:
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67074-8b4d35f76202a20ad82b83b1b8848ab7.jpg)
Plateau Lake
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67075-c0d823d1da91d15fc7b381c4f3feca27.jpg)
Plateau Lake
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67076-993f93219d80156e0db630efca4b391d.jpg)
The north shore of Plateau Lake
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67077-7fbb1824a6456742908a45b3ba5f53fd.jpg)
And one last shot of the lake. Isn't this exciting?
It took us 5.5 hours to reach the lake and after taking some pictures, we ate a quick lunch then started our way back to camp. On our way back, we encountered a heavy thunderstorm that dumped on us for about twenty minutes. The lightning was fun to watch though. Also, we encountered some extreme marsh that left me wondering if I was going to make it back to camp at all. We also had the pleasure of seeing a Golden Eagle on our route back to Little Firehole Meadows.
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67082-a9c722f23d057090294d10f2db18df4b.jpg)
Somebody needs to enlighten me on this marker. We found it just southeast of Plateau Lake. Is it an old state boundary marker of some sort even though the state boundary is a good ways off to the west? @Artemus ?
![50b.jpg 50b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67078-a80d8949383ff4db68cf5ca354a14e2f.jpg)
The way back to camp - nothing but downfall. Double Aargh!
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67079-e3a2fae0d6c2e67bd55dceece353a7e5.jpg)
This way kids.
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67080-eddf421bab423f0fcbfe7b07c5c60131.jpg)
Fireweed
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67081-e26e7f2b06ddb3c682145944a511aa4f.jpg)
How old is this fire ring. There are actually two sitting rocks, one of which is barely visible in the lower right of the image that new trees are growing between them and the ring. Back in the day, this would have require Deputy Scatman to arrest someone. @Rockskipper and @Miya
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67083-0aa08c1226ef2c5b0d1ad7836fa3de9c.jpg)
The view after the thunderstorm had passed overhead.
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67084-3054d029f68ac56b80eb67236da6f92b.jpg)
Thermal features we encountered on our way back to camp.
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67085-9218238a0e27003cb06f80d24732882a.jpg)
Thermal feature
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67086-70bf24191d55a72ce53ba4fee1b18404.jpg)
Thermal feature
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67087-d662120a8baad51e82a82f45e895bb6a.jpg)
Scatman down! Scat Jr. down too! Ha Ha! I promise you, it looked like solid ground.
![Help :help: :help:](/addedsmilies/help.gif)
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67088-b15fe20610789791284502f1be4e4d01.jpg)
Look closely at this shot.
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67089-eb536fe48c8d767e913d0606d8d0cae3.jpg)
Close up of above image - I am waist deep in the muck. I tried to plant my hiking poles, but they went all the way in. I essentially had to swim out of this predicament. I almost lost both hiking shoes in this. Lesson learned. Not!
![Uh huh :uhhuh: :uhhuh:](/addedsmilies/uhhuh.gif)
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67091-c511cdf925f6d7d5e5070606c928e9d3.jpg)
Kids getting a kick out of my foolishness.
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67090-99da52e397ec9facb8760e34ed6ebd08.jpg)
I haven't mentioned mosquitoes yet. This shot says it all.
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67092-d96b15367a9462cba8e98806721bd104.jpg)
The tents are within reach! Our ten hour hike is almost complete. I'm pooped.
Day 4 - We had to pick up and move camp this morning, back to campsite 0D3. After moving camp, we did an off-trail day hike to Buffalo Meadows which was roughly 7 miles round trip.
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67093-9712ab5b14162a0410bf3f971930145b.jpg)
Packing up camp at 0D2
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67094-e3e63735c2c1a2ab3c41d1cef9c10256.jpg)
Monkshood
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67095-b3ec1252f735f5e54e0bccfb38665873.jpg)
Campsite sign for 0D3
![Buffalo_Meadows_Day_Hike_01.jpg Buffalo_Meadows_Day_Hike_01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67108-ffc4f4730847691643bafaf0d4313740.jpg)
Overview map of day hike to Buffalo Meadows
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67096-7454d833069ca59c5f27c13c9388251a.jpg)
On our way to Buffalo Meadows - we are heading towards the notch in the ridge.
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67097-ccbb33658b0ea95e04ba78486a5c66f0.jpg)
The stream that flows from Buffalo Meadows that we will attempt to follow.
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67098-a81f6630e19f7bdd1173fd25d5e8900e.jpg)
Beautiful country
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67099-f69ff87c71633b02863b359816ce5981.jpg)
I don't believe this town is big enough for the two of us!
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67100-1b061fff7ffcd76396885f321e13532f.jpg)
We had to cross this stream numerous times
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67101-0c6cb612ea13fcddc32b43afc8fbc438.jpg)
Entering Buffalo Meadows
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67102-b323fc741ce52c158eca7bdc4c614736.jpg)
Buffalo Meadows in all its glory.
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67103-67410a615ccc6371d0756bf77e14f7da.jpg)
On our way back to camp. We had to gain the ridge because we cliffed-out following the stream.
We passed the two gentlemen that took over campsite 0D2 on our way back to 0D3. I asked them if they had dinner ready for us. Their answer was unsatisfactory to say the least!
Day 5 - Packed up and headed back to the trailhead
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67104-6a6e8dd31c04a8b6b469d314e8e4889b.jpg)
Getting ready for breakfast
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67105-763550defd8a69e0f90f6307e1013cd4.jpg)
Little Firehole Falls at campsite 0D3. There is a great swimming hole here for those who like to swim.
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67106-55a5e36e08b88cca786e676774e62e2c.jpg)
Slow down you move too fast, got to make the morning last, just kicking down the cobblestone, looking for fun and feeling groovy.
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/67/67107-fa9d7290ee1e0db7fac895ec582de535.jpg)
Old Faithful and upper Geyser Basin.
Well, it turned out to be a great trip. The temperatures were perfect, low to mid seventies during the day and right around freezing at night. We actually had some frost on our rainfly in the morning while camped at the meadow. The weather cooperated too with only a couple of afternoon thunderstorms to deal with. A reasonably good short trip for those who are interested.
If I've made any spelling errors throughout this report, let me know and I will go in and change them. I'm too lazy to go back and check. Thanks.
The End
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