Fishing Bridge Junction to Canyon Junction
You are on what is called the Grand Loop Road heading North from Fishing Bridge Junction. The first thermal feature is called Mud Volcano and that is where we saw our first Bison. We were able to view them there up close because they were on the other side if this very heavy log fence.
Further on is the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The colors derive both from minerals and from living organisms. There are infinite shadings of yellow and orange and also reds and pinks, off-whites, browns, greens, and black. Most of the colors result from the weathering of the rocks and from the upward passage of hot water and steam.
The Falls on the Yellowstone River was raging as the river was at full capacity. Here's some statistics on the canyon:
- Upper Falls: 109 feet (33 m)
- Lower Falls: 308 feet (94 m)
- Canyon depth: 800 - 1200 feet (240 - 360 m)
- Canyon width: 1500 - 4000 feet (450 - 1200 m)
- Canyon length: about 20 miles from the Upper Falls to Tower Junction
Steps down to the Yellowstone River.
The Yellowstone River.
There was a bald eagle in the tree on the other side of the river. He is a little hard to see, but up near the top of the tall tree.
Our first view of the Bison at the Mud Volcano area.
There are other features in this area that you can see on the wood walkway, but it was closed because the Bison had taken over.
Read the sign! Some people don't!
On the hill behind Mud Caldron.
Everyone got excited when the Bison came close to the fence.
We were able to get close to the bison because there was that big heavy fence between us.
We learned that the wildlife own Yellowstone and visitors have to work around them. If they want to cross the road they do in their own good time, sometimes backing up a very long line of cars.
The very beautiful Hayden Valley.
Our first view of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
View from Artists Point.
The Upper Falls.
There are many informational exhibits throughout Yellowstone.
"I just have to jump into these trees!"