Our previous day’s experience taught us that there was next to no food available in the park.  So it’s best to bring your own.  A quick stop at a grocery store in Coulter Bay filled the trunk with picnic goodies.

The first stop of the morning in the park was Old Faithful.  But we got there just after it had erupted so we had a 90 minute wait for the next “show”.  Meanwhile we were entertained by multiple smaller geysers that wanted some attention too.  The Beehive Geyser, dwarfed by it’s bigger “sister” nonetheless put on a pretty impressive show.  But then it was Old Faithful’s turn and she did not disappoint.  Small wisps of steam were soon followed by clouds of steam.  Then small spurts of water followed by an unforgettable display as the boiling water shot straight up into the sky.  I know why people go to the park just to see it.

Leaving Old Faithful we stopped at a few smaller geothermals and then hiked to the Grand Prismatic Spring.  As many of you know, I’m not exactly a hiker.  This one was worth it.  Huge pools of aqua blue water ringed by red, yellow and orange.  It was difficult to know where to look next.  And it was steaming.  They estimate the average temperature of the water at 161 degrees. It was the most incredible sight to see red and aqua blue steam rising.

And then we enjoyed our picnic lunch. A beautiful grove of pines with an Amish family at the next tables.  And bear warnings stapled to the tables.  But no sign of Yogi and BooBoo.  Almost disappointing.

Lunch was followed by more touring of geothermals.  There are thousands in the park.  To the first white men in the area it must have looked like the earth was very angry. It looked that way to me too.

Dinner that night was a trip into Jackson Hole, Wyoming.  The town of legend.  Huge arches of antlers greet visitors to town.  And the place was bustling.  Honky Tonks sat side by side with upscale eateries.  Outfitters and purveyors of outdoor sporting goods lined the streets.  We chose a place recommended by Fodor’s that boasts of authentic Mexican fare.  It was the first time I ate cactus.  It was pretty good. A cross between lettuce and cabbage. A wonderful meal.  Especially the margarita