Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

At ten weeks in, it seems there are still more "gems" in the park that Andre and I are just getting to. Last night after we were done working and eating, we set out at about 6:30 to drive the north road of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. We had driven the south road and done a great hike on that side of the canyon earlier in the season on Uncle Tom's trail, a sometimes paved, sometimes dirt path that involved a number of switchbacks alternating with metal staircases that dropped and dropped and dropped until you arrived at a great view of the lower falls.

After hiking back up via the same endless staircases, we'd continued on a path that meanders along the ledge of the canyon for a few miles until we'd reached "Artists Point", one of parks famous overlooks that provides an amazing view to the canyon and the waterfall. On that day, the view, although as stunning as promised, was obstructed for the most part by the busloads of visitors of every age and nationality jostling for position to see, pose in front of, video and photograph said view.

Last night on the North side of the canyon it was a completely different story.  Our first visit to the canyon had been in bright sunlight early in the day. This time, 7 or 8 weeks later, it was about 40 degrees colder, and early evening just before sunset.  There were only a handful of hearty folks at each overlook and the view was stunning, if a bit chilly!  The canyon itself, carved out by water through layers of  volcanic lava and ash from the large eruption that shaped most of this part of the park was magnificent and the colors along the canyon walls made it well worth the trip. Here are some photos from the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone....