Backpacking Heart Lake

Instead of hiking, we decided to drive through Hayden Valley. It is an area known for an abundance of animals from grizzlies to bison. We decided to leave the animals to their natural environment instead of intruding on foot. 

The next morning we set out on our 10 mile trip into the back country destination, Heart Lake. We headed out with our wilderness permits, bear spray, and everything we needed for a two-night stay packed on our backs. Along the way we stopped for relaxing, soak in the warm water bubbling down Witches Creek. Our hike led us to a beautiful campsite at the base of Mount Sheridan with Heart Lake directly in the front of us. Our site even included a hanging pole for our food and a pit toilet, with an amazing view! So much for leaving the animals to their natural environment, as when we arrived, notices advised us that there was a boar grizzly, and a mother with three cubs frequenting the area. We must have stored our food properly, as none of them decided to visit! 

It was a beautiful campsite , though the clouds opened up and it poured for hours. We did lots of reading in our tent, taking short outings during breaks in the weather. In the late evening, bugling elk could be heard over the rain pounding the top of our little tent. We were grateful for its waterproofing capabilities, staying warm and dry. On our way out, the skies cleared revealing dramatic skies and amazing photo opportunities. We were able to take a close look at the geothermal features, especially mud pots and gorgeous scenery on the way out.

After two amazing days in the back country of Yellowstone, we felt grateful for this amazing experience and that our bodies were able to get us there and the 10 miles back to our pickup. We shared a celebration beer and kicked back to reminisce about our fantastic journey to the Yellowstone outback.Read more