- Joined
- Dec 23, 2013
- Messages
- 3,761
I believe that I might be a bit of a complainer by nature, so this report will have some minor complaints throughout unfortunately. ![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
First off, this trip around Shoshone Lake was supposed to be a nice relaxing family backpacking trip. Originally, Katie, Sheila and I were going to be the participants, but Katie started working a summer job at the library here in town, which meant she was no longer available to see the splendors of Yellowstone. BCP member Pringles also showed an interest in going, but she had to pull out of the trip the week before due to a board meeting that she had to sit in on (virtually) that conflicted with a couple of the days that we would be in the backcountry. So that just left Sheila and myself to enjoy Shoshone Lake and vicinity.
Our plans were to head up on Friday, the 23rd of July, and stay overnight at the Grant Village Campground, and then we would head into the backcountry on the morning of the 24th. Well, on Wednesday morning the 21st, I woke up not feeling quite right. As the day progressed, I still felt kind of funky, but I wasn't sure if it was just the heat of the day here in Salt Lake, or if I was actually coming down with something. On Thursday morning, I could definitively tell that I wasn't feeling well. So after getting up, I took a COVID test to see if I had the virus. The test came back "negative." I continued to feel crummy throughout the day, and Sheila asked me if perhaps we should cancel the trip. I told her that I'd see how I felt in the morning and make a decision.
I woke up Friday morning and thought that I felt a little bit better and that we should go. I knew that I still had one more day before backpacking in to the backcountry, so I was slightly optimistic that I could pull this off. Now @Bob had invited us to swing by and say "Hi" on our way to the Park, so I again took another COVID test Friday morning, and once again it returned a negative result.![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Now I talked a little bit earlier about complaining. Well, let me start off by complaining about myself.
We packed all our gear up and hit the road just before 8:00 am, and just before we reached Malad, Idaho, I realized that I had forgotten both of our cans of bear spray, sitting on the kitchen counter! So we stopped in Pocatello at the Sportsman's Warehouse and purchased a coupe cans of new spray.
Now, you'd think the first thing that one would remember when planning a backpacking trip to Yellowstone, it would be bear spray. Man, what a nincompoop I am! That turned out to be an expensive forget.
As we got closer to Island Park, Bob let us know that the Forest Service was having a Wildfire Awareness Event along Highway 20 at the Island Park Ranger Station for the Targhee National Forest, and if we were interested, we could stop and have a burger or a hotdog for lunch. So we stopped in an had a bite to eat and visited the information booths that they had set up for the public. When we first arrived, they had Smokey Bear out front waving at folks passing by, and I wanted to get my picture taken with him. Unfortunately, by the time we finished our meal, Smokey had left.
So I did the next best thing instead.
![140.jpg 140.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112156-721fb23566a8d4e0f051a2b86c8c8790.jpg)
![141.jpg 141.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112157-10b6729afde422d4b375568dff382e68.jpg)
![142.jpg 142.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112158-19d1b83918a64b3f67b086305f978cd6.jpg)
Sheila, checking out the info booths
![143.jpg 143.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112159-83758537b28c4dd30ceb5b59daa95093.jpg)
Not the "Real Deal," but close.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
After lunch, we headed on down the road and stopped in to see Bob. We chatted for around thirty minutes, mostly talking about our upcoming Teton Wilderness trip, after which we said our goodbyes and headed to West Yellowstone to pick up our official backcountry permit.
After getting our permit, it was on to Grant Village for the night.
We arrived at Grant Village and checked in. We ended up in Loop J sight 367. So off we went to set up our tent and have some dinner.
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112161-e1b1f48b36eb4124881fd3ce400ce915.jpg)
Site 367
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112162-0b319b1c54106a3ec9ef1755c6a20d38.jpg)
Our tent.
After getting everything set up, I began to feel worse, and ended up turning in for the night around eight o'clock. This is where complaint number two arises.
The Grant Village Campground has a policy that quiet hours begin at 10:00 pm and last through 6:00 am the following morning. That seems pretty straight forward to me, but obviously not to everyone. Our next door neighbors, a couple of what appeared to be mid-twenty type young men, decided that ten o'clock was just when the fun begins. They had two others from somewhere else in the loop join them for beer and loud conversation, along with deep guttural laughter. This went on until 1:15 am the next morning. I bring earplugs for just such an occasion, but with my sinuses feeling like they were going to explode every time I tried to lie down, I just couldn't handle it with my ears plugged too. I was miserable. After they finally retired to their tent for the evening, I came this close (my thumb and index finger are roughly 1/16 on an inch apart) to unloading my newly acquired bear spray into their tent. It seemed as though I might have to pull the plug on our trip after all. I did eventually fall asleep, and woke up the next morning around eight.
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112163-638041a9db3c5b50b7eea1060e2f7976.jpg)
Our breakfast at Grant Village.
I told Sheila that I felt better than last night and that I thought I could make it to our first campsite on the lake. We packed up our gear and drove to the DeLacy Creek Trailhead. I knew at this point that Sheila could just tip, or push me over and roll me to the lake if necessary. We only had approximately 3.5 miles to go to reach 8S2 anyway. If things got worse, we could always hike right back out the following day.
Here is our story:
Day 1 - Delacy Creek Trailhead to campsite 8S2 - 3.5 miles.
The trailhead was busy when we arrived, as the hike down to Shoshone Lake is a popular day hike. This meant that on our way to the lake, we ran into a lot of hikers. As a matter of fact, the Walker Family had about thirty family members hiking down to the lake. It was definitely a busy stretch of trail that day.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112164-866fbfb16768f3aed3ba4263258f92ab.jpg)
The DeLacy Creek Trailhead
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112165-122f6753997d2ad9606cd1d097f8d0e9.jpg)
The map at the info sign that shows our intended lollipop loop
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112166-d8e58f702d1bd8e0c89df5732f632c92.jpg)
@TractorDoc, @wsp_scott and I were the last to see this gentleman alive last year when
we stayed at campsite 8R5 on the lake.
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112167-12fe06a4ea5a017c9ea08608a17a558b.jpg)
DeLacy Creek
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112168-7bcc592bfd8727e7db2dec285b68e524.jpg)
The original Howard Eaton Trail - one of the highlights of the trip for me.
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112169-138a51ea60d2295a8f995bf9e782693f.jpg)
I walked down the Howard Eaton for a little ways. The mosquitoes got so bad though
that I had to make a hasty retreat.
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112170-029fb88652803fc66bcb36434aa21e52.jpg)
The beautiful Delacy Creek Meadows
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112171-23387abab7a51d2a0d0e0dbac83af1ec.jpg)
The DeLacy Creek Trail
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112172-4c9928164aae4a960d44f567c14d995d.jpg)
Geese in the meadow
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112173-5451d5c4aee338279aa87ea5102029c5.jpg)
Monkshood along the trail
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112174-9413e391df8da60d4f6c3b0237c4dd31.jpg)
First glimpse of Shoshone Lake
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112175-b65c4be6921ea4e35eb3bd0ae794a7fe.jpg)
Lily pad filled DeLacy Creek
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112176-35c98cd97a29a0ca67f2ba2333f4625e.jpg)
Arriving at the trail junction sign just before the lake
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112177-3cb495c48658a4cb636454989cdb2174.jpg)
Shoshone Lake
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112178-2a375092f5549ff2e0f52fcdc5abf31f.jpg)
Heading west to campsite 8S2
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112179-9aafa580935c1fe6bc64217ed8e89178.jpg)
Arriving at camp
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112180-9262f2e6b4eb6e5179e9ff8d878d5819.jpg)
Our tent site at 8S2
![21b.jpg 21b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112181-fe80e7d5dc2e4b3152e9db8bca2813a3.jpg)
The Red Mountains and Mount Sheridan across the lake
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112182-03f6c60e6a7bba50fbb9088739e7c861.jpg)
Dinner for night one.
Day 2 - Campsite 8S2 to Campsite 8R5 - approximately 8.0 miles
I woke up still not feeling well. I knew day two would be the longest day for us, and it took me a good portion of the day to cover those eight miles. I took plenty of rest breaks along the way between the campsites. At first, the trail follows the shoreline of the lake, but it eventually leaves the lake and heads through the Cement Hills on the north side of the lake. We only returned to the lake when we reached campsite 8R5.
Originally, we thought we might take in the geyser basin that evening, but I just didn't feel up to it, so we saved it for the next day.
Once again after setting up camp and eating dinner I called it a day.
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112183-8f7e548b82e4ed98e5721fce96858587.jpg)
Morning of day 2 on Shoshone Lake
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112184-95d09c487cb46c9ac0c6a4913d001c94.jpg)
These canoers were going to attempt a day hike to Pocket Lake before heading on to their next campsite
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112185-66dd5e7a34c73663e786d43c7788440a.jpg)
Getting close to leaving the lake for a time
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112186-1d60b8c0d32e46da5b2ef681fa59ea22.jpg)
Crossing a stream before leaving the lake
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112187-d1198e6ca13d573b0a81b9535f9f2ef6.jpg)
Making our way through the Cement Hills
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112188-2b171ac6595cb334737e6a7a045e7ab6.jpg)
I believe this sign marks the trail that heads south to the Cove Patrol Cabin on the north
side of Shoshone Lake
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112189-435e79a420ad2b483bedba7855bbfe3b.jpg)
Arriving at the trail to our night's campsite
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112190-0c04245fcc64f59050747700a2300aa2.jpg)
Our tent site at 8R5
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112191-0ffe95bc3e314e0badca11df46645f30.jpg)
Night two's dinner
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112192-07cf8cb1cc83883b8527a3c1b6067920.jpg)
Lake shot from 8R5
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112193-f4a665f43108bad77e9bae55b413bc75.jpg)
Our setup at the feeding area
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112194-354b7aeeff9a97ffde28abf5ffa8a28a.jpg)
One last lake shot, looking east, before calling it a day.
Day 3 - Campsite 8R5 to Campsite 8M2 on Moss Creek - 5.1 miles
When I awoke on day three, I could tell that I was feeling better than the previous two days, but I was still nowhere near 100%.
Today's route would take us through the Shoshone Geyser Basin, where we dropped our packs for awhile and explored the thermal area a bit. We also got to experience the marshy west side of Shoshone Lake. While making our way along the west side, we encountered something seismic!
Also, it is time for complaint number three: The trail along this section is in bad shape. The footbridges across streams have collapsed, and have yet to be replaced. Charging for people to camp overnight in the backcountry ought to equate to getting these things fixed. A pet peeve of mine I guess.
After leaving the west end of the lake, we had a steep climb up and over the ridge that then drops down to Moose Creek. I had never camped at either site on Moose Creek, so I was excited to stay the night at someplace new.
Another exciting thing about day three was that we would have the opportunity to meet a number of CDT hikers because this stretch of trail is part of the CDT. One couple from Holland was particularly memorable, as they were very enthusiastic. They were very excited to eat breakfast at Old Faithful the next morning. Their cheerfulness was very contagious and I'm sure it helped me reach our camp on Moose Creek. Another gentlemen that we met was averaging 25 miles a day. Bravo! I told him that I was impressed and wished him luck on finishing the trail.
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112195-e5b3f757c72fd4e101ddd5dccf54cb7c.jpg)
A look towards geyser basin in the morning of day 3. The basin is behind the hill directly ahead in the image
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112196-dedffed100cbb33a23ad7b5d0e0ba468.jpg)
A couple of canoes and two foot peddled craft leaving the geyser basin
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112197-5306c085f890df119e4da570d16f1419.jpg)
Arriving at a trail junction
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112198-532221235ba33f0e9590d74b6c72b004.jpg)
Entering the geyser basin
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112199-44c60f8815b6afd65059e65fd0e4beb8.jpg)
Thermal feature - @TractorDoc will have to name these for everyone.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112200-52866362f9363305abcb9cf93513169f.jpg)
Hot spring
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112201-d80643599216f8e08c0d201d88451eae.jpg)
Always worth a trip to see the geyser basin
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112202-f3b9ee3540db95d1e8a2875f94999b91.jpg)
Thermal feature and Shoshone Creek
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112203-3dae79efa2f62b9b4c193669c32e7feb.jpg)
Continuing on through the basin
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112204-d07ac52de3d3feef64036330a8665777.jpg)
A bubbler.
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112205-0eb469de0541ed6357f3d37e747fcf4b.jpg)
Sheila taking a picture
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112230-691697893ade72718efbf70eecfc7536.jpg)
Hot spring
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112238-c23e36e93d7b35b1025ea43aac21cf0a.jpg)
Another hot spring
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112239-bd023fa00b2c47a3e4a7d4362f1e4972.jpg)
Is this Minuteman @TractorDoc ?
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112240-9b3e6f3c1930b4fe72b4a8570d7e8a09.jpg)
I liked this one
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112241-9267653e2d8300685ef4e4f72c56724a.jpg)
A bubbler
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112242-a1cd95914b3be1898887b40f1faf1841.jpg)
Not sure, but maybe Union Geyser?
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112243-2afc914d8d6d35e02d1c7db00490e179.jpg)
West end of Shoshone Lake, looking towards the narrows
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112244-836aa71326714ec7b07fb0ee5853a54d.jpg)
Old sicko crossing Shoshone Creek
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112245-36f7e72d66cc8433116072d1e45b4509.jpg)
And begins the marshy section of our day
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112246-c93c121ae6781f03a1fe3b49305eead3.jpg)
Collapsed footbridge made for an interesting big step.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112247-ce059405cedd1e91982b1d97f37054da.jpg)
Yellow pond-lily
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112248-2844c7179f4de14af905fc1bce77a831.jpg)
I feel the earth move under my feet, I feel the sky tumblin' down! A tumbin' down! A Seismic Event! Did you feel a disturbance in
the Force @Rockskipper? I'm not sure how the camera survived this shot.
What a joy to run into a fellow kilter on the trail.
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112249-3412c7f55ec9ef46ecccbff6e1ab0f7e.jpg)
The marshy west side of the lake made for some good dragonfly opportunities.
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112250-32ba35c200970316458bed1b4a30263e.jpg)
Another one
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112251-704d851c98c875cf3581be3a71234584.jpg)
And one last one
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112252-feb763c7e811e1d589cf39e85d4c9cbb.jpg)
Cold Mountain Creek on its way to the lake
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112253-9316216cf4f308789f41c497c7aada05.jpg)
Back at the lake, before starting our climb up and over the ridge to Moose Creek
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112254-9f4eaee97257427391f1433f453219eb.jpg)
Gaining some elevation off the lake
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112255-4bc6a1caa7f3385d526a946eca3520d3.jpg)
An old Yellowstone trail marker
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112256-951d26662e4ff71b8b62dd1aba653ecf.jpg)
Almost at the top of the ridge. This hill tired me out.
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112257-f276b660a16b3024e01220b21b7762ef.jpg)
Arriving at 8M2 - Moose Creek Meadows
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112258-0c74deeeb38d53cb0d1f02566d8231bc.jpg)
Moose Creek
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112259-4fea8a30573ecf14b2379530deb885b5.jpg)
Moose Creek Meadows
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112260-2e90a8ce11c7b5038de8323c7eb6bd1e.jpg)
More Moose Creek
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112261-592756b2a266739fc5f7b72900fe3d97.jpg)
Tent at 8M2
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112262-c2b7a8258d2db73b514457e26ad9af8c.jpg)
Moose tracks on Moose Creek.![Thumbs Up :thumbsup: :thumbsup:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Day 4 - Campsite 8M2 to Campsite 8S0 - 5.2 Miles
I felt around 90% when I awoke on day four. It was good to be getting better, and to have increased energy levels, and also have another short day. I did begin to cough a lot on this day though. So day four offered up a couple of water crossings: one being Moose Creek, and the second being the Lewis River at the outlet of Shoshone Lake. At the ford of Moose Creek, I lost my little green, tear-dropped thermometer, and I had to take some time to look around for it, but I finally found it thank goodness.
I was a bit surprised after we left 8M2, thinking that we would follow Moose Creek all the way to the crossing. But the trail actually leaves the creek and climbs above it, and really doesn't return to the creek until the ford. After the ford, we climbed another ridge, dropped down to a marshy meadow, and then up another ridge before finally switchbacking down to the Shoshone Lake outlet. After crossing the outlet, it was a short beach walk to reach out campsite 8S0.
Gripe number four: Campsite 8S0 is actually one of two campsites in the Park that allow two parties to reserve the site. One, 8S1, is for paddlers, and 8S0 is for backpackers. The site has two numbers, but they are the same location. Since I had reserved 8S0 in the raffle, and 8S1 is reserved for boaters, I thought the only chance of meeting people would be of the canoeing and kayaking type. Now back in the old days, if 8S1 hadn't been reserved by 4:00 pm that same day, the Backcountry Office could release it to another backpacking party.
Well, once we arrived at camp, we did our usual routine - set up camp, hung our food, and then headed over to check out the patrol cabin located just to the east of the campsite. After dinner, we set up our camp chairs on the shore of the lake and just kicked back and enjoyed the scenery. We crashed about 8:30 pm. Along about nine o'clock I can hear a tinker, tinker, tinker off in the distance, but I can tell it is getting closer. Eventually a bear bell wearing couple shows up and pitches their tent right next to ours. I can hear them talking, and the man says that they covered 30.5 miles today.
So I came to the conclusion that they must be CDT hikers too. A few minutes later another couple showed up and pitched their tent at a site that was furthest away from out tent. So the thought occurred to me that they probably hadn't reserved a place at 8S1, just showed up late and stayed. Perhaps I'm wrong. I tried to balance the impressive goal that they were accomplishing with the not following the rules part of it - at least in Yellowstone.
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112271-7ee1e3fa91f6896866d1d6b8aa83ecf1.jpg)
Moose Creek in the morning
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112272-8f987c7b7a4c509ea6b5a960ae9b5b9d.jpg)
A couple artic fritillaries enjoying some mountain dandelions
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112273-fc0d13748e8ebcaaf0bb4b334acd0f40.jpg)
Fording Moose Creek
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112274-ae6b1230e2078e6058ecdf1c3e8ffdba.jpg)
My teardrop thermometer that I temporarily lost.
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112275-ea73d9d4b48f00818b0d1ba5344e5a7c.jpg)
Lots of new growth along this stretch, with Shoshone Lake visible again
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112276-53dcdd37f2ddb7d00c51f3992c7488d1.jpg)
The marshy meadow that we dropped down to
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112277-2c90e7a9258401376456db06cbcd5237.jpg)
This is the old trail down to the outlet ford. I tried to get Sheila to take this one, but
she was a no-go.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112278-d8fec2dfcee2d724c58031f2eacd2805.jpg)
Looking down on the outlet of Shoshone Lake
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112279-4432f128c2741a18f9b5ca61d4ce3738.jpg)
The other end of the original trail to the outlet ford
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112280-cb8e1c73a87f39a657836df47a5db880.jpg)
Arriving at the outlet
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112281-bd6629369f8685ca91352f0f938dc6d2.jpg)
Crossing the outlet
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112282-f8463577e86ba7f77b5353ae28226de6.jpg)
The DeLacy Creek Drainage across the lake
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112283-35e9636156ff9185ba8d4126767a8b6a.jpg)
Small section of beach hiking to reach camp
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112284-bfdcef11a2c5710882f88903c9a17bb9.jpg)
Arrived
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112285-3489b509fedfd70df3025cfbc64119fd.jpg)
Tent site at 8S0
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112286-fbc44de11ad6c4f387c18a87dfd17022.jpg)
The essentials.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112287-23a47db41cb8f3c42b8fdf0959f44b6c.jpg)
The Outlet Patrol Cabin - I can't believe that these are not manned fulltime.![Mad :mad: :mad:](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Complaint #5!
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112288-6806ae95ef484aa9fe15c5477f1402f0.jpg)
Checking out our map.
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112289-66e24fed91650dbe0e5b2c1ba1e54b7b.jpg)
Dinner for night four
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112290-457e8a45746a6ed1d86f5c7c7adbc40e.jpg)
Tomorrow's trail
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112291-b1c7408dfe27a0eee5a66b9bfc1b002c.jpg)
Arnica going to seed
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112292-048b0cc8d87613869fdda400e25fb867.jpg)
Looks cold, but actually was very pleasant
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112293-404eb4178ec379d0c77592edbdcbc859.jpg)
The life of luxury.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112294-e826577b4668d104b1641753b5557366.jpg)
Sunset on Shoshone
Day 5 - Campsite 8S0 to the DeLacy Creek Trailhead - 7.2 Miles
As our tent was right on the trail that led to the cooking area and the bear pole, I could hear one of the people from the second arrivals head down and then back to their tent. We awoke at 6:00 am the next morning so that we could get an early start, since we had to hike out and then drive down to Jackson for the evening. So while we are taking down our tent, the lady from the couple that had arrived the latest got out of their tent and went and got their food bag off of the bear pole and then returned to their tent. The couple that had done the 30.5 miles the previous day hadn't hung their food, and they began eating in their tent as we finished up taking down our tent. This is a no-no in grizzly country. So not only did they potentially endanger their lives, they also endangered ours, and perhaps anyone else who comes along and uses that campsite. Sheila and I headed down to the food area and ate our oatmeal. When we returned, both parties had made haste and were gone.
The east side trail that runs along Shoshone Lake took me a bit by surprise - certainly not hard to do.
It was a very up and down trail, down to the lake then back up to the top of the ridge, taking us at first through burn and new growth from the '88 fires, then through some old growth the rest of the way for the most part. When the trail did level out, we had to hike along some pea to nickel sized rocks along the beach which made for a good workout. The trail was very narrow in places, and at least twice, it looked as if the trail would slide down the steep hillside towards the lake. This trail appeared to be seldom used except by the occasional elk or two. I commented to Sheila that a mule wouldn't be stupid enough to take this trail.
And the mosquitoes! The mosquitoes were killers along this stretch! 4.2 miles of being eaten alive. While the trail may have been for elk, mosquitoes, dogbane and lupine, I'm not quite sure it was for me. I felt like I was chasing hellhounds @Rockskipper! Or maybe it was just the illness getting to me. By the way, I was feeling about 98% on this last day, with mostly some coughing and phlegm issues to deal with.
So as we arrived at the junction with the DeLacy Creek Trail, we met a retired police officer who was bringing his grandson into the Yellowstone backcountry for the first time. His grandson was fishing in the lake as we chatted. They were essentially doing our route in reverse. He also mentioned that his wife was going to join them and that she was still coming down the DeLacy Creek Trail. He then mention that she was losing her sight and required a service dog to guide her. What? Service dog? I didn't think that Yellowstone allowed dogs into the backcountry? They tend not to play well with the wildlife. I looked it up when I got home and sure enough you can get a permit to take a service dog into the Yellowstone backcountry. Who knew?![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
We said our goodbyes to the two gentlemen and began the last stretch back to the trailhead. About twenty minutes from the lake we ran into the lady with the dog and chatted for a few minutes. Once again this was very inspirational to me. They were heading all the way to Moss Creek - 11 miles roughly, and she would be going on that trail on the east side of the lake. If they actually made it to Moss Creek, then my hats off to her. Quite an accomplishment - on par with the 30.5 mile day in my book.
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112295-691fc57cf5a4656071bc1bf7290fc7ab.jpg)
Some fog lifting off the lake in the morning
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112296-7b828a5d2d0031be785047d92a479f91.jpg)
Heading through the '88 burn
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112297-8c5f3310cf9369ed4042d631ff541cf8.jpg)
Some nice views up above the lake - looking towards the narrows
![102.jpg 102.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112298-bcfd03470e4f0fe7cbb48dc5e91820b6.jpg)
New growth as thick as dog's hair
![103.jpg 103.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112299-b5b7475ffd9e952fea349bb16b6a5551.jpg)
The narrows
![104.jpg 104.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112300-3c50d08eaa3c5ee97236a99d84d45499.jpg)
Time for some more beach hiking
![105.jpg 105.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112301-29da584fb2b11e87c11d6d63cf003551.jpg)
The marsh on the east side of Shoshone Lake
![106.jpg 106.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112302-71d8def25726361e5068910da96e635a.jpg)
Almost to the end of the beach
![107.jpg 107.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112303-9685ad49ddeb9ef2870cd6cc9470af66.jpg)
Arriving back at the DeLacy Creek Trail junction
![108.jpg 108.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112304-40770f08440d7019c5f9e592cecc873c.jpg)
DeLacy Creek
![108b.jpg 108b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112305-54b0567d0710f99c9dda140aa83da757.jpg)
The lady with the service dog
![109.jpg 109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112306-ddfb287bf7a75dadab146b9511ef47ab.jpg)
Hey, I found a penny. This must be my lucky day!![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![110.jpg 110.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112307-da3b24ecb57d7e38fb9f136fabb8a659.jpg)
A pale swallowtail
![111.jpg 111.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112308-0535c5f4fa68764d78603d64980db8fe.jpg)
Back at the trailhead
![112.jpg 112.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112309-89d5c073f700ce7fc42dfc31a3ea9f01.jpg)
And what is this? A note from @The Trout Whisperer!
So we packed up our gear and headed out to Jackson, stopping at Grant Village Campground to see @The Trout Whisperer. He turned out not to be at his site, so we continued on to Jackson, stopping at the Grand Teton Visitors Center on our way. When we arrived in Jackson, we checked into our motel, cleaned up a bit and went out for some Tex-Mex at the Merry Piglets. After dinner I had to make my annual pilgrimage to Moos for a Oreo malt with dark malt. Delicious!
![113.jpg 113.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112310-2eda59446568916ef740c0e18dae90a1.jpg)
I just loved this bus, parked in loop G at the Grant Village Campground on our way to see if @The Trout Whisperer was around.
![114.jpg 114.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112311-e2d742162246e01fed0bd7f04f90b93d.jpg)
I had two chicken spinach enchiladas.
![115.jpg 115.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112312-4729b65597d1b8105f1320fa4f526638.jpg)
While Sheila had two chili rellenos. Both meals were good, but I think Sheila's was a tad bit better.
![116.jpg 116.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112313-28eafe1751ddad03d8559c96f0324d36.jpg)
![117.jpg 117.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112314-e92ef8db260398a7d47b7be8ddadaeab.jpg)
Of course, every time I see the above two images I wonder why me and @Rockskipper aren't paddling down
the mighty Mississip?
![118.jpg 118.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112315-dba67dac1353eafe8b6fddaacc3347fa.jpg)
Pure Heaven!
Well, it was an interesting trip to say the least. I was a bit disappointed that we didn't get to see any large wildlife while we were in the backcountry. On the other hand, the temperatures were perfect, with mid to high seventies in the day, and low to mid-forties at night. And I do know this, I'd rather be sick in Yellowstone than sick in Salt Lake.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
The End.
First off, this trip around Shoshone Lake was supposed to be a nice relaxing family backpacking trip. Originally, Katie, Sheila and I were going to be the participants, but Katie started working a summer job at the library here in town, which meant she was no longer available to see the splendors of Yellowstone. BCP member Pringles also showed an interest in going, but she had to pull out of the trip the week before due to a board meeting that she had to sit in on (virtually) that conflicted with a couple of the days that we would be in the backcountry. So that just left Sheila and myself to enjoy Shoshone Lake and vicinity.
Our plans were to head up on Friday, the 23rd of July, and stay overnight at the Grant Village Campground, and then we would head into the backcountry on the morning of the 24th. Well, on Wednesday morning the 21st, I woke up not feeling quite right. As the day progressed, I still felt kind of funky, but I wasn't sure if it was just the heat of the day here in Salt Lake, or if I was actually coming down with something. On Thursday morning, I could definitively tell that I wasn't feeling well. So after getting up, I took a COVID test to see if I had the virus. The test came back "negative." I continued to feel crummy throughout the day, and Sheila asked me if perhaps we should cancel the trip. I told her that I'd see how I felt in the morning and make a decision.
I woke up Friday morning and thought that I felt a little bit better and that we should go. I knew that I still had one more day before backpacking in to the backcountry, so I was slightly optimistic that I could pull this off. Now @Bob had invited us to swing by and say "Hi" on our way to the Park, so I again took another COVID test Friday morning, and once again it returned a negative result.
Now I talked a little bit earlier about complaining. Well, let me start off by complaining about myself.
As we got closer to Island Park, Bob let us know that the Forest Service was having a Wildfire Awareness Event along Highway 20 at the Island Park Ranger Station for the Targhee National Forest, and if we were interested, we could stop and have a burger or a hotdog for lunch. So we stopped in an had a bite to eat and visited the information booths that they had set up for the public. When we first arrived, they had Smokey Bear out front waving at folks passing by, and I wanted to get my picture taken with him. Unfortunately, by the time we finished our meal, Smokey had left.
![140.jpg 140.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112156-721fb23566a8d4e0f051a2b86c8c8790.jpg)
![141.jpg 141.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112157-10b6729afde422d4b375568dff382e68.jpg)
![142.jpg 142.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112158-19d1b83918a64b3f67b086305f978cd6.jpg)
Sheila, checking out the info booths
![143.jpg 143.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112159-83758537b28c4dd30ceb5b59daa95093.jpg)
Not the "Real Deal," but close.
After lunch, we headed on down the road and stopped in to see Bob. We chatted for around thirty minutes, mostly talking about our upcoming Teton Wilderness trip, after which we said our goodbyes and headed to West Yellowstone to pick up our official backcountry permit.
After getting our permit, it was on to Grant Village for the night.
We arrived at Grant Village and checked in. We ended up in Loop J sight 367. So off we went to set up our tent and have some dinner.
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112161-e1b1f48b36eb4124881fd3ce400ce915.jpg)
Site 367
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112162-0b319b1c54106a3ec9ef1755c6a20d38.jpg)
Our tent.
After getting everything set up, I began to feel worse, and ended up turning in for the night around eight o'clock. This is where complaint number two arises.
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112163-638041a9db3c5b50b7eea1060e2f7976.jpg)
Our breakfast at Grant Village.
I told Sheila that I felt better than last night and that I thought I could make it to our first campsite on the lake. We packed up our gear and drove to the DeLacy Creek Trailhead. I knew at this point that Sheila could just tip, or push me over and roll me to the lake if necessary. We only had approximately 3.5 miles to go to reach 8S2 anyway. If things got worse, we could always hike right back out the following day.
Here is our story:
Day 1 - Delacy Creek Trailhead to campsite 8S2 - 3.5 miles.
The trailhead was busy when we arrived, as the hike down to Shoshone Lake is a popular day hike. This meant that on our way to the lake, we ran into a lot of hikers. As a matter of fact, the Walker Family had about thirty family members hiking down to the lake. It was definitely a busy stretch of trail that day.
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112164-866fbfb16768f3aed3ba4263258f92ab.jpg)
The DeLacy Creek Trailhead
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112165-122f6753997d2ad9606cd1d097f8d0e9.jpg)
The map at the info sign that shows our intended lollipop loop
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112166-d8e58f702d1bd8e0c89df5732f632c92.jpg)
@TractorDoc, @wsp_scott and I were the last to see this gentleman alive last year when
we stayed at campsite 8R5 on the lake.
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112167-12fe06a4ea5a017c9ea08608a17a558b.jpg)
DeLacy Creek
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112168-7bcc592bfd8727e7db2dec285b68e524.jpg)
The original Howard Eaton Trail - one of the highlights of the trip for me.
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112169-138a51ea60d2295a8f995bf9e782693f.jpg)
I walked down the Howard Eaton for a little ways. The mosquitoes got so bad though
that I had to make a hasty retreat.
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112170-029fb88652803fc66bcb36434aa21e52.jpg)
The beautiful Delacy Creek Meadows
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112171-23387abab7a51d2a0d0e0dbac83af1ec.jpg)
The DeLacy Creek Trail
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112172-4c9928164aae4a960d44f567c14d995d.jpg)
Geese in the meadow
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112173-5451d5c4aee338279aa87ea5102029c5.jpg)
Monkshood along the trail
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112174-9413e391df8da60d4f6c3b0237c4dd31.jpg)
First glimpse of Shoshone Lake
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112175-b65c4be6921ea4e35eb3bd0ae794a7fe.jpg)
Lily pad filled DeLacy Creek
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112176-35c98cd97a29a0ca67f2ba2333f4625e.jpg)
Arriving at the trail junction sign just before the lake
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112177-3cb495c48658a4cb636454989cdb2174.jpg)
Shoshone Lake
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112178-2a375092f5549ff2e0f52fcdc5abf31f.jpg)
Heading west to campsite 8S2
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112179-9aafa580935c1fe6bc64217ed8e89178.jpg)
Arriving at camp
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112180-9262f2e6b4eb6e5179e9ff8d878d5819.jpg)
Our tent site at 8S2
![21b.jpg 21b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112181-fe80e7d5dc2e4b3152e9db8bca2813a3.jpg)
The Red Mountains and Mount Sheridan across the lake
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112182-03f6c60e6a7bba50fbb9088739e7c861.jpg)
Dinner for night one.
Day 2 - Campsite 8S2 to Campsite 8R5 - approximately 8.0 miles
I woke up still not feeling well. I knew day two would be the longest day for us, and it took me a good portion of the day to cover those eight miles. I took plenty of rest breaks along the way between the campsites. At first, the trail follows the shoreline of the lake, but it eventually leaves the lake and heads through the Cement Hills on the north side of the lake. We only returned to the lake when we reached campsite 8R5.
Originally, we thought we might take in the geyser basin that evening, but I just didn't feel up to it, so we saved it for the next day.
Once again after setting up camp and eating dinner I called it a day.
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112183-8f7e548b82e4ed98e5721fce96858587.jpg)
Morning of day 2 on Shoshone Lake
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112184-95d09c487cb46c9ac0c6a4913d001c94.jpg)
These canoers were going to attempt a day hike to Pocket Lake before heading on to their next campsite
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112185-66dd5e7a34c73663e786d43c7788440a.jpg)
Getting close to leaving the lake for a time
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112186-1d60b8c0d32e46da5b2ef681fa59ea22.jpg)
Crossing a stream before leaving the lake
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112187-d1198e6ca13d573b0a81b9535f9f2ef6.jpg)
Making our way through the Cement Hills
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112188-2b171ac6595cb334737e6a7a045e7ab6.jpg)
I believe this sign marks the trail that heads south to the Cove Patrol Cabin on the north
side of Shoshone Lake
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112189-435e79a420ad2b483bedba7855bbfe3b.jpg)
Arriving at the trail to our night's campsite
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112190-0c04245fcc64f59050747700a2300aa2.jpg)
Our tent site at 8R5
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112191-0ffe95bc3e314e0badca11df46645f30.jpg)
Night two's dinner
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112192-07cf8cb1cc83883b8527a3c1b6067920.jpg)
Lake shot from 8R5
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112193-f4a665f43108bad77e9bae55b413bc75.jpg)
Our setup at the feeding area
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112194-354b7aeeff9a97ffde28abf5ffa8a28a.jpg)
One last lake shot, looking east, before calling it a day.
Day 3 - Campsite 8R5 to Campsite 8M2 on Moss Creek - 5.1 miles
When I awoke on day three, I could tell that I was feeling better than the previous two days, but I was still nowhere near 100%.
Today's route would take us through the Shoshone Geyser Basin, where we dropped our packs for awhile and explored the thermal area a bit. We also got to experience the marshy west side of Shoshone Lake. While making our way along the west side, we encountered something seismic!
After leaving the west end of the lake, we had a steep climb up and over the ridge that then drops down to Moose Creek. I had never camped at either site on Moose Creek, so I was excited to stay the night at someplace new.
Another exciting thing about day three was that we would have the opportunity to meet a number of CDT hikers because this stretch of trail is part of the CDT. One couple from Holland was particularly memorable, as they were very enthusiastic. They were very excited to eat breakfast at Old Faithful the next morning. Their cheerfulness was very contagious and I'm sure it helped me reach our camp on Moose Creek. Another gentlemen that we met was averaging 25 miles a day. Bravo! I told him that I was impressed and wished him luck on finishing the trail.
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112195-e5b3f757c72fd4e101ddd5dccf54cb7c.jpg)
A look towards geyser basin in the morning of day 3. The basin is behind the hill directly ahead in the image
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112196-dedffed100cbb33a23ad7b5d0e0ba468.jpg)
A couple of canoes and two foot peddled craft leaving the geyser basin
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112197-5306c085f890df119e4da570d16f1419.jpg)
Arriving at a trail junction
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112198-532221235ba33f0e9590d74b6c72b004.jpg)
Entering the geyser basin
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112199-44c60f8815b6afd65059e65fd0e4beb8.jpg)
Thermal feature - @TractorDoc will have to name these for everyone.
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112200-52866362f9363305abcb9cf93513169f.jpg)
Hot spring
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112201-d80643599216f8e08c0d201d88451eae.jpg)
Always worth a trip to see the geyser basin
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112202-f3b9ee3540db95d1e8a2875f94999b91.jpg)
Thermal feature and Shoshone Creek
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112203-3dae79efa2f62b9b4c193669c32e7feb.jpg)
Continuing on through the basin
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112204-d07ac52de3d3feef64036330a8665777.jpg)
A bubbler.
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112205-0eb469de0541ed6357f3d37e747fcf4b.jpg)
Sheila taking a picture
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112230-691697893ade72718efbf70eecfc7536.jpg)
Hot spring
![47.jpg 47.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112238-c23e36e93d7b35b1025ea43aac21cf0a.jpg)
Another hot spring
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112239-bd023fa00b2c47a3e4a7d4362f1e4972.jpg)
Is this Minuteman @TractorDoc ?
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112240-9b3e6f3c1930b4fe72b4a8570d7e8a09.jpg)
I liked this one
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112241-9267653e2d8300685ef4e4f72c56724a.jpg)
A bubbler
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112242-a1cd95914b3be1898887b40f1faf1841.jpg)
Not sure, but maybe Union Geyser?
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112243-2afc914d8d6d35e02d1c7db00490e179.jpg)
West end of Shoshone Lake, looking towards the narrows
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112244-836aa71326714ec7b07fb0ee5853a54d.jpg)
Old sicko crossing Shoshone Creek
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112245-36f7e72d66cc8433116072d1e45b4509.jpg)
And begins the marshy section of our day
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112246-c93c121ae6781f03a1fe3b49305eead3.jpg)
Collapsed footbridge made for an interesting big step.
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112247-ce059405cedd1e91982b1d97f37054da.jpg)
Yellow pond-lily
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112248-2844c7179f4de14af905fc1bce77a831.jpg)
I feel the earth move under my feet, I feel the sky tumblin' down! A tumbin' down! A Seismic Event! Did you feel a disturbance in
the Force @Rockskipper? I'm not sure how the camera survived this shot.
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112249-3412c7f55ec9ef46ecccbff6e1ab0f7e.jpg)
The marshy west side of the lake made for some good dragonfly opportunities.
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112250-32ba35c200970316458bed1b4a30263e.jpg)
Another one
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112251-704d851c98c875cf3581be3a71234584.jpg)
And one last one
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112252-feb763c7e811e1d589cf39e85d4c9cbb.jpg)
Cold Mountain Creek on its way to the lake
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112253-9316216cf4f308789f41c497c7aada05.jpg)
Back at the lake, before starting our climb up and over the ridge to Moose Creek
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112254-9f4eaee97257427391f1433f453219eb.jpg)
Gaining some elevation off the lake
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112255-4bc6a1caa7f3385d526a946eca3520d3.jpg)
An old Yellowstone trail marker
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112256-951d26662e4ff71b8b62dd1aba653ecf.jpg)
Almost at the top of the ridge. This hill tired me out.
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112257-f276b660a16b3024e01220b21b7762ef.jpg)
Arriving at 8M2 - Moose Creek Meadows
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112258-0c74deeeb38d53cb0d1f02566d8231bc.jpg)
Moose Creek
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112259-4fea8a30573ecf14b2379530deb885b5.jpg)
Moose Creek Meadows
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112260-2e90a8ce11c7b5038de8323c7eb6bd1e.jpg)
More Moose Creek
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112261-592756b2a266739fc5f7b72900fe3d97.jpg)
Tent at 8M2
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112262-c2b7a8258d2db73b514457e26ad9af8c.jpg)
Moose tracks on Moose Creek.
Day 4 - Campsite 8M2 to Campsite 8S0 - 5.2 Miles
I felt around 90% when I awoke on day four. It was good to be getting better, and to have increased energy levels, and also have another short day. I did begin to cough a lot on this day though. So day four offered up a couple of water crossings: one being Moose Creek, and the second being the Lewis River at the outlet of Shoshone Lake. At the ford of Moose Creek, I lost my little green, tear-dropped thermometer, and I had to take some time to look around for it, but I finally found it thank goodness.
I was a bit surprised after we left 8M2, thinking that we would follow Moose Creek all the way to the crossing. But the trail actually leaves the creek and climbs above it, and really doesn't return to the creek until the ford. After the ford, we climbed another ridge, dropped down to a marshy meadow, and then up another ridge before finally switchbacking down to the Shoshone Lake outlet. After crossing the outlet, it was a short beach walk to reach out campsite 8S0.
Gripe number four: Campsite 8S0 is actually one of two campsites in the Park that allow two parties to reserve the site. One, 8S1, is for paddlers, and 8S0 is for backpackers. The site has two numbers, but they are the same location. Since I had reserved 8S0 in the raffle, and 8S1 is reserved for boaters, I thought the only chance of meeting people would be of the canoeing and kayaking type. Now back in the old days, if 8S1 hadn't been reserved by 4:00 pm that same day, the Backcountry Office could release it to another backpacking party.
Well, once we arrived at camp, we did our usual routine - set up camp, hung our food, and then headed over to check out the patrol cabin located just to the east of the campsite. After dinner, we set up our camp chairs on the shore of the lake and just kicked back and enjoyed the scenery. We crashed about 8:30 pm. Along about nine o'clock I can hear a tinker, tinker, tinker off in the distance, but I can tell it is getting closer. Eventually a bear bell wearing couple shows up and pitches their tent right next to ours. I can hear them talking, and the man says that they covered 30.5 miles today.
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112271-7ee1e3fa91f6896866d1d6b8aa83ecf1.jpg)
Moose Creek in the morning
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112272-8f987c7b7a4c509ea6b5a960ae9b5b9d.jpg)
A couple artic fritillaries enjoying some mountain dandelions
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112273-fc0d13748e8ebcaaf0bb4b334acd0f40.jpg)
Fording Moose Creek
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112274-ae6b1230e2078e6058ecdf1c3e8ffdba.jpg)
My teardrop thermometer that I temporarily lost.
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112275-ea73d9d4b48f00818b0d1ba5344e5a7c.jpg)
Lots of new growth along this stretch, with Shoshone Lake visible again
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112276-53dcdd37f2ddb7d00c51f3992c7488d1.jpg)
The marshy meadow that we dropped down to
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112277-2c90e7a9258401376456db06cbcd5237.jpg)
This is the old trail down to the outlet ford. I tried to get Sheila to take this one, but
she was a no-go.
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112278-d8fec2dfcee2d724c58031f2eacd2805.jpg)
Looking down on the outlet of Shoshone Lake
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112279-4432f128c2741a18f9b5ca61d4ce3738.jpg)
The other end of the original trail to the outlet ford
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112280-cb8e1c73a87f39a657836df47a5db880.jpg)
Arriving at the outlet
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112281-bd6629369f8685ca91352f0f938dc6d2.jpg)
Crossing the outlet
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112282-f8463577e86ba7f77b5353ae28226de6.jpg)
The DeLacy Creek Drainage across the lake
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112283-35e9636156ff9185ba8d4126767a8b6a.jpg)
Small section of beach hiking to reach camp
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112284-bfdcef11a2c5710882f88903c9a17bb9.jpg)
Arrived
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112285-3489b509fedfd70df3025cfbc64119fd.jpg)
Tent site at 8S0
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112286-fbc44de11ad6c4f387c18a87dfd17022.jpg)
The essentials.
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112287-23a47db41cb8f3c42b8fdf0959f44b6c.jpg)
The Outlet Patrol Cabin - I can't believe that these are not manned fulltime.
Complaint #5!
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112288-6806ae95ef484aa9fe15c5477f1402f0.jpg)
Checking out our map.
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112289-66e24fed91650dbe0e5b2c1ba1e54b7b.jpg)
Dinner for night four
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112290-457e8a45746a6ed1d86f5c7c7adbc40e.jpg)
Tomorrow's trail
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112291-b1c7408dfe27a0eee5a66b9bfc1b002c.jpg)
Arnica going to seed
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112292-048b0cc8d87613869fdda400e25fb867.jpg)
Looks cold, but actually was very pleasant
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112293-404eb4178ec379d0c77592edbdcbc859.jpg)
The life of luxury.
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112294-e826577b4668d104b1641753b5557366.jpg)
Sunset on Shoshone
Day 5 - Campsite 8S0 to the DeLacy Creek Trailhead - 7.2 Miles
As our tent was right on the trail that led to the cooking area and the bear pole, I could hear one of the people from the second arrivals head down and then back to their tent. We awoke at 6:00 am the next morning so that we could get an early start, since we had to hike out and then drive down to Jackson for the evening. So while we are taking down our tent, the lady from the couple that had arrived the latest got out of their tent and went and got their food bag off of the bear pole and then returned to their tent. The couple that had done the 30.5 miles the previous day hadn't hung their food, and they began eating in their tent as we finished up taking down our tent. This is a no-no in grizzly country. So not only did they potentially endanger their lives, they also endangered ours, and perhaps anyone else who comes along and uses that campsite. Sheila and I headed down to the food area and ate our oatmeal. When we returned, both parties had made haste and were gone.
The east side trail that runs along Shoshone Lake took me a bit by surprise - certainly not hard to do.
So as we arrived at the junction with the DeLacy Creek Trail, we met a retired police officer who was bringing his grandson into the Yellowstone backcountry for the first time. His grandson was fishing in the lake as we chatted. They were essentially doing our route in reverse. He also mentioned that his wife was going to join them and that she was still coming down the DeLacy Creek Trail. He then mention that she was losing her sight and required a service dog to guide her. What? Service dog? I didn't think that Yellowstone allowed dogs into the backcountry? They tend not to play well with the wildlife. I looked it up when I got home and sure enough you can get a permit to take a service dog into the Yellowstone backcountry. Who knew?
We said our goodbyes to the two gentlemen and began the last stretch back to the trailhead. About twenty minutes from the lake we ran into the lady with the dog and chatted for a few minutes. Once again this was very inspirational to me. They were heading all the way to Moss Creek - 11 miles roughly, and she would be going on that trail on the east side of the lake. If they actually made it to Moss Creek, then my hats off to her. Quite an accomplishment - on par with the 30.5 mile day in my book.
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112295-691fc57cf5a4656071bc1bf7290fc7ab.jpg)
Some fog lifting off the lake in the morning
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112296-7b828a5d2d0031be785047d92a479f91.jpg)
Heading through the '88 burn
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112297-8c5f3310cf9369ed4042d631ff541cf8.jpg)
Some nice views up above the lake - looking towards the narrows
![102.jpg 102.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112298-bcfd03470e4f0fe7cbb48dc5e91820b6.jpg)
New growth as thick as dog's hair
![103.jpg 103.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112299-b5b7475ffd9e952fea349bb16b6a5551.jpg)
The narrows
![104.jpg 104.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112300-3c50d08eaa3c5ee97236a99d84d45499.jpg)
Time for some more beach hiking
![105.jpg 105.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112301-29da584fb2b11e87c11d6d63cf003551.jpg)
The marsh on the east side of Shoshone Lake
![106.jpg 106.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112302-71d8def25726361e5068910da96e635a.jpg)
Almost to the end of the beach
![107.jpg 107.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112303-9685ad49ddeb9ef2870cd6cc9470af66.jpg)
Arriving back at the DeLacy Creek Trail junction
![108.jpg 108.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112304-40770f08440d7019c5f9e592cecc873c.jpg)
DeLacy Creek
![108b.jpg 108b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112305-54b0567d0710f99c9dda140aa83da757.jpg)
The lady with the service dog
![109.jpg 109.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112306-ddfb287bf7a75dadab146b9511ef47ab.jpg)
Hey, I found a penny. This must be my lucky day!
![110.jpg 110.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112307-da3b24ecb57d7e38fb9f136fabb8a659.jpg)
A pale swallowtail
![111.jpg 111.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112308-0535c5f4fa68764d78603d64980db8fe.jpg)
Back at the trailhead
![112.jpg 112.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112309-89d5c073f700ce7fc42dfc31a3ea9f01.jpg)
And what is this? A note from @The Trout Whisperer!
So we packed up our gear and headed out to Jackson, stopping at Grant Village Campground to see @The Trout Whisperer. He turned out not to be at his site, so we continued on to Jackson, stopping at the Grand Teton Visitors Center on our way. When we arrived in Jackson, we checked into our motel, cleaned up a bit and went out for some Tex-Mex at the Merry Piglets. After dinner I had to make my annual pilgrimage to Moos for a Oreo malt with dark malt. Delicious!
![113.jpg 113.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112310-2eda59446568916ef740c0e18dae90a1.jpg)
I just loved this bus, parked in loop G at the Grant Village Campground on our way to see if @The Trout Whisperer was around.
![114.jpg 114.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112311-e2d742162246e01fed0bd7f04f90b93d.jpg)
I had two chicken spinach enchiladas.
![115.jpg 115.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112312-4729b65597d1b8105f1320fa4f526638.jpg)
While Sheila had two chili rellenos. Both meals were good, but I think Sheila's was a tad bit better.
![116.jpg 116.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112313-28eafe1751ddad03d8559c96f0324d36.jpg)
![117.jpg 117.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112314-e92ef8db260398a7d47b7be8ddadaeab.jpg)
Of course, every time I see the above two images I wonder why me and @Rockskipper aren't paddling down
the mighty Mississip?
![118.jpg 118.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/112/112315-dba67dac1353eafe8b6fddaacc3347fa.jpg)
Pure Heaven!
Well, it was an interesting trip to say the least. I was a bit disappointed that we didn't get to see any large wildlife while we were in the backcountry. On the other hand, the temperatures were perfect, with mid to high seventies in the day, and low to mid-forties at night. And I do know this, I'd rather be sick in Yellowstone than sick in Salt Lake.
The End.
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