Day five started with an incredible white water rafting trip down the Shoshone Canyon in an two-man inflatable kayak. The water was cold and the rapids were fun! After a hot shower and a quick breakfast, we started our drive into Yellowstone National Park.
Highway 14 takes you from Cody straight into the East Gate and the hour drive before you get into the park has so much to offer in the way of scenery - from horse ranches and rock outcroppings to the Buffalo Bill State Park and Reservoir.
Past the gate - it's sensory overload for the eyes. Every way you look - it's interesting. Whether its a herd of bison bathing or just the landscapes that unfold as you drive deeper into the heart of the park. An afternoon thunderstorm cut our exploration a little short, but you'll see it didn't stop us from getting in a gorgeous hike before settling in for a frosty night in preparation for our itinerary-full next day. Day five:
Looks like bath time was nice and steamy!
This Is Yellowstone.
The contrast between the puffy white clouds and rugged yellow mountains makes for picture perfect photos.
This ranch is just off the road between Cody, WY and Yellowstone. Open pasture, horses, mountains and blue skies - ahhhhh... Wyoming!
The haze is from wildfires near the south gate toward Jackson, WY.
A boat travels across Yellowstone Lake, trying to beat the rain and thunderstorm rolling into the park during the afternoon.
The storm arrives.
Wildlife is everywhere! We named this guy 'Elvis' because he looks like a king!
The thunderstorm kept most people in their cabins or tents, but we threw on a pair of boots and hiked out to the natural bridge - trying to make the most of every ounce of daylight. It was SO worth the hike and it was virtually tourist free because of a little bit of rain.
The trail above the natural bridge.
Another elk spotting right near the camping site.
The storms went away and the sun came up just in time to give this field and trail a beautiful golden glow!