Yellowstone's Hayden Valley in a Day -- September 17 2021

[Kerrie at Thru We Go]

Thanks for the great trip report! I really enjoyed going along for the ride. I hung out in Hayden Valley when I worked there as a Park Ranger back in the day. I have fond memories of swimming in Violet Hot Springs and jumping in the snow to cool off in the winter. I still remember feeling like my skin was peeling off. Reading this report brought a big smile to my face.

 

[WasatchWill]

We need a hand clapping emoji on here. Bravo! Fantastic photos and story telling. Loved the humor. Looks like a day well spent.

 

[The Trout Whisperer]

After surviving Scat’s bog fest trip in Sept, my new backpackin slogan is…

GO B O G Or go home!

 

[scatman]

Your presence is payment enough. Besides, I don't think I can convince anyone else to go the places I have planned.

I was not even sure you saw him as we were coming over that hill. I don't think he was expecting to see us either!

I don't know. . . Bison backs look rather pointy. Strap a banana seat on one and I might consider it. I think I've narrowed down which bumper sticker to make for the Subaru next year -- "BisonBoy" would look good in an upper angle script. Or better yet we can make it banner style in big bold letters across the top of your windshield.

Could have been all the picture taking. Bears may be leery of shutter clicks. If I go mirrorless I'll try to find a quiet option.

You hear that @wsp_scott ? I cannot remember if Hugh promised that we'd see a bear in Hayden, but I know for better (or worse!) we missed the nude Scatman Bear Dance. Apparently he was holding out on us.

Never say never Hugh. . . we still have not planned a day hike for next year yet.

Are you kidding, my presence is a detriment.

I guaranteed a bear sighting in Hayden, which is a step below a promise and thus the bear dance may be required.

What is our day hike going to be? As I sit icing my knees down.

 

[scatman]

Peanuts to subdue my wild side? That hadn't occurred to me.

 

[TractorDoc]

I hung out in Hayden Valley when I worked there as a Park Ranger back in the day.

Well consider me Jealous!

Reading this report brought a big smile to my face.

One could not ask for a better compliment.

Bravo! Fantastic photos and story telling. Loved the humor. Looks like a day well spent.

Thanks Will!
One of my goals on a trip is to try and make sure the group has a good time. Getting my hiking mates to crack a smile adds to an already great experience. I know they won't admit it but I think Hugh actually laughed once and Scott smiled twice on this past year's adventure.

my new backpackin slogan is…

GO B O G Or go home!

We might have to get some T-shirts made for recognition along the trail.

You could have "Boggy Bottom Boys" or something similar written across the back.

What is our day hike going to be? As I sit icing my knees down.

All depends on the Scatster's availability, ambition, and flexibility. The Forest Lake idea still intrigues me. If that does not work out then we have the option for another shuttle hike that could turn into another epic loop hike.

 

[scatman]

All depends on the Scatster's availability, ambition, and flexibility. The Forest Lake idea still intrigues me. If that does not work out then we have the option for another shuttle hike that could turn into another epic loop hike.

The Scatman's availability, ambition and flexibility are all fluid at the moment, or maybe viscous is a better description. I would like to see Forest Lake, but there is no "Wow" factor to it. What kind of shuttle hike do you have in mind?

 

[TractorDoc]

Went back and found a picture (from the web) of the old snowshoe cabin from 2004:




Interesting to compare it to 2021:



Looks like the pine in the front did not make it but several behind the cabin may be the same. . . only much bigger!