Thursday, April 26/2018

We travelled the depth of Wyoming today.  We entered at the South end and drove out of the North today.  Sounds impressive but the State of Wyoming is not very long when it comes to miles north to south.  The landscape along 191 N however is varied and we found ourselves in the lowlands and again up into the elevations near 8700 feet.

There was snow on the distant mountains but again this year we have been blessed with no snow on the pavement.
We did see several herds of both deer and antelope and a dropped a factoid about antelope on John he didn't know and that was that the antelope is one of the fastest land animals on the planet.  Second only to the cheetah!!  See, I do learn a few things watching the National Geographic Wild Channel!!

We passed lots of snow in the pass just before Lander, Wy and I can sure see why they use snow fence.  They must get a ton of the white stuff during the winter season.

Snow

Ice and snow on the water before Lander, Wy

Nice color but a long way down

Coming into Wind River Canyon near Shoshoni, Wy

In coming this route, John and I get to travel the Wind River Canyon and that is always a visual pleasure.  The Wind River cuts through the canyon providing wonderful views and great fishing.   The canyon is dotted with signs stating what time period the passing rock is from.  It is as interesting as travelling the Vernal, Utah pass.

The tunnels of the canyon

A beautiful drive through the canyon.  One we never tire of.

The Wind River

Left it is

Lots of deer here

Yes, there are antelope in this picture!!

Left again

Welcome to Montana

We stopped for the night at one of our favourite spots in Montana.  We have a few favs here in Montana.  Tonight's spot was in a sweet little campground in Laurel.  The sign going in says NO CAMPING but we usually just drive past it and park in and amongst the huge (and I mean huge) cottonwood trees.  The campground is situated right beside the Yellowstone River and at this time of year it is flowing like crazy.  A lot of water passes by in a very short time.   Lots of folks use the boat ramp to launch their boats and I am sure one must have a good idea as to the whereabouts of all the sandbars.  This river, at its current flow rate would show no mercy if you get yourself into trouble.

Laurel, Mt campground

The cottonwoods provide an awesome environment for all the different birds and they must appreciate it as one can hear birdsongs from sun up to sundown!!  The river is home for several osprey although we did not see any this year.  Squirrels were put on the earth simply to bug dogs and of course that was quite evident.  They too make their homes in the cottonwoods and I can only imagine how wonderful the park looks and sounds in the summer season.   Many use the park as a place to walk their dogs as well.  It is a lovely place to stay for a night.

Tonight's setting sun

Another good day of travel behind us and we are another day closer to home.   Life is Good.