Thermopolis Part 2

We have enjoyed the free 20 minute soaks and free shower facilities at the Hot Springs State Park now twice. We'll stop by on our way through town tomorrow for one last soak and shower.

Today we drove to Riverton. We first located and started to explore the 1838 Rendezvous site. This was one location where Mt Men came to trade furs. Unfortunately, just as we were getting started, a man came by and said he had to lock the gate. Apparently a man and his dog had gotten stranded on an island in the river and a rescue was underway. The area had to be closed as a result (not sure why).

Next, Phil and I went out to the headquarters of the Wind River Buffalo Project. We were not able to get a tour, but we could see 5 or six bulls in a pen near the headquarters. Last winter we met Jason Baldez who is part of the Intertribal Buffalo council, which helps tribes across the nation get Yellowstone Bison for their tribes. The Wind River has a herd for each tribe (Eastern Shoshoni and Northern Arapaho). We donated to their cause this year and have watched several short documentaries.

On our way back from the bath house, we stopped at a hardware store. I accidentally left my fire poking stick at Vedauwoo so we sourced 2 new ones by cutting a wooden dowel on half and wrapping the handle with tape. Although I have a spare now, I hope they both last me the trip.

Tomorrow will head up to Cody and then take Chief Joseph Highway up to the north east entrance of Yellowstone. We will drive through the Lamar Valley and out the Gardiner entrance and hope to stay at a campground between Gardiner and Livingston.Read more