With only two days left at Yellowstone, we had to make sure we explored every area. Eager for another view of Yellowstone Lake, when the sun was shining, we headed toward Fishing Bridge to hike Elephant’s Back.
The quiet trail started on the side of the road and led us through thick forest. A mile or two in the lollipop trail, we veered to the right to start our climb. Switchback after switchback zigzagged us higher and higher up the mountain. We went slow, and stopped a few times as the altitude was bothering my dad. As they say though, slow and steady wins the race. It gave us time to soak up the peace and quiet and relish in views of the lake below as it peeked through the trees.
At the top, the trail flattened out and we made a big arc around to the viewing spot. Gosh, was it worth the effort. The sun was peaking through the puffy white clouds, shining down on the navy blue waters of Yellowstone Lake below. The water was calm, with only a few white lines stretching through it from early morning boaters. Two long wood logs, placed perfectly toward the opening, called our names and we sat down to soak it all in.
A few people came and went as we snacked and relaxed, but largely we had the place to ourselves. The temperatures were slowly rising and the sun on our faces felt happy and warm. Bundled in our layers, we admired the snow capped mountains on the far side of the lake. They added a lovely background, but I was glad we hadn’t encountered snow yet!
Eventually we gave up our spots to some new hikers and began the hike down. We came across several hikers just beginning their adventure and wished them a good day. This part of the hike went down switchbacks (so much easier), but was certainly longer and steeper. We were thankful we had gone the other direction at the split!
Back at the car, we drove over to the Storm Point trailhead for one more short hike. This trail led through the forest to the shore path along Yellowstone Lake. As we walked through the forest, a Ranger was teaching his sons how to do trail maintenance by sawing through some trees that had fallen along the trail. As we passed, he commented to us that trees in Yellowstone like to fall down more than they like to stand up! This seemed very true, not only on this hike, but in many parts of the park. The forest floor was often riddled with fallen trees, blown over by strong winds. They pile up and weather until they are gray and brittle because the climate is so dry here. No quick decay like in the damp forests back East.
Eventually we emerged from the woods and walked along the path onto of the cliff by the shore. Storm Point lay ahead, an outcropping giving a spectacular view of the lake. My mom and I were caught up taking pictures when my dad spotted a yellow-bellied marmot sunbathing on the rocks! We quietly but quickly hurried over to capture it in its glory, but we needed have hurried. The marmot seemed to love the camera and posed for us for a long time, making sure to have the scenic lake behind as a beautiful backdrop. Another animal to check off the list!
We then wound our way back to the car, practicing some leprechaun heels clicks/jumps along the way. I’m very good at the left side, but the right side needs some practice. We goofed around, trying different strategies, until I finally nailed it. With some coaching, my dad got it too. Finally, due to peer pressure, my mom made an attempt as well. The laughter and play was fitting end to a lovely day.
Tonelli's Travels 