Though we didn't technically travel very far today, we got to see so much more of the park and surrounding area. We had driven back in to the Mammoth Hot Springs area, and went for the walk all through the terraced springs. It's strange how they look cold because it is all white and ice-like but really its steaming hot. We felt like physical warriors because just before heading up on the boardwalk leading through the springs we had heard a woman exclaim, "You can't drive through it! No. There is no way I am walking all through there. It takes TWO HOURS to walk it!? I think NOT!" Way to go us. Haha. I had to laugh. And we did see her later, in her car, at the top of the lookout checking out the springs from above, so I guess we all win.
A bike ride was in store today - finally! - and I was more than pumped to get back on Llele for a little bit. Alas, silly us, the trail marked for biking in the park was a Mountain Bike trail. Booo. So after a much shorter bike than my legs were hoping for, we went for a hike instead. And then, on the advice of a good friend, we searched out a reward we didn't think existed in the park: swimming in hot springs. If you hike to where the Gardiner River and the Boiling River meet, there is a spot for soaking in the jets of cold and hot water. It was exquisite. And just enough off the main road that not too many people go there. We were greeted by a 5+ foot long snake. I think it scared Adam more than me;) A little jolt of adrenaline was eased away with a solid amount of time in the hot water, though.
As if we didn't have enough soak time, we met up with my aunt's buddy from Peace Corps, Craig and partner Sue in the evening for another soak - this time in the Chico Hot Springs. Totally different look at hot springs. Chico is a walled in pool that literally fills to the brim every day with hot water from the springs and then is emptied each night. Luxury. Luxury completed with lovely company, a mouth-watering meal, fun pictures/stories from Craig's Peace Corps experience, and the kicker: a real bed to sleep in:)
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Mags,
ReplyDeleteSounds like Craig and Sue were fantastic hosts, which is one of the reasons why I knew you should visit them! I'm so happy you connected. And if they're reading this, thanks, Craig and Sue, for hosting Maggie! Hope you had fun!
:) -Jen