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RVing message boards => Rallies, Shows, & Events => Topic started by: Kim (skyking4ar2) Bertram on February 09, 2016, 01:09:35 PM
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Well, for those who have been hibernating, the YNP Rally is just a little over 90 days away, and we'll use this post to keep folks up with things they need to know, which should be especially helpful for the new folks (and there's a bunch!) who are coming.
If you need a refresher, here's the rally announcement (http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/index.php/topic,84419.0.html), and here are the expected attendees and some other important info (http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/index.php/topic,84928.0.html).
Starting down the list of things to be mindful of:
Binoculars, cameras, stuff to see stuff with - the sights are many and often, but at a distance - the longest lenses, biggest binoc's, etc. will help you cover the vastness and the animals in their natural cover
Layered clothing and good footgear - weather in May is very changeable, and you need to prepare for temps in the 30's to 60's. If you plan to hike some, and there are many opportunities, think some boots, not tennies....
Stocked pantry - West Yellowstone, while it has several grocery stores, may not have the selection of things you are used to, so hit the Walmart or whatever on the way in for most of your goodies and fill in. You may not enjoy premium prices in the area and going elsewhere may cost you a half a day.
Bottle water and things to eat in the park - while several of the venues will be open in the park, we have found it important to carry drinks and sammies or whatever, because those stops are a LONG way between each other. If you are sugar sensitive, as I am, you'll learn the trick about carrying something interesting to eat as a backup.
Fuel - while there is fuel in the park, it is expensive, and again, far apart. Think keeping your tank full on the way into the park and you won't be disappointed. It's only 2.9 million acres...
A GPS mapping program on your personal device - cell signals are almost non-existent except at Old Faithful and it wasn't great. I have had good luck with CoPilot which is based off the GPS on your phone, not your cell signal. There are others.
Others who have been in the park will be sharing their info here as well, and I encourage that.
It's going to be a great time with plenty of diversity for all! Get crackin' and start packin' !!
See ya soon!
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We are already getting questions from folks about routing into West Yellowstone and it is an important topic because of the time of the year and how late winter was and the variety of ways you can come in. Hopefully, those who have gone before will share their routing experience and take a little of the edge of.
Personally, we typically come up from the south via Salt Lake City and I-15, and then US 20 out of Idaho Falls. That route could be picked up by folks coming from the east, and folks coming from the west at some point. Targhee Pass north of Ashton, ID is a bit of a pull but nothing extraordinary. The Idaho Potato Museum, though not large, in Blackfoot, was an interesting stop with RV parking for those who need to slow down and get a sandwich. Rupe's Burgers about a block from the museum is somewhat of a local legend and food was good!
The Shoshone Reservation Casino in Fort Hall on I-15 is also a great fuel stop for larger rigs, we had good food there, and it's an overnight stop with its own RV park if you are running out of daylight.
As usual, your choice of routing at that time of the year is still about weather as you traverse elevations.
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Subscribed to this one as well Kim.
I think you are correct, though, this time of year the West approach will be the easiest. They also generally have the East entrance open but Dunraven Pass will be a crap shoot for that time of year so you will want to make certain to go South towards West Thumb and Old Faithful then around to Madison Junction if coming in from the East from Cody, WY.
Mike.
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Mike, we should make a point to all who look at a map and are considering coming through the park to West Yellowstone.
If this is your first time, that route may look simplest, but there will probably still be roads closed at that point. There are some links we'll post so you can see real time and expected openings of different parts of the park.
If that's your plan, please communicate your routes and get comments from those who have done it and additional information from the Czars of all things Yellowstone, Pancake Bill and Jim Dick, who while working in the park for many years, have their fingers on the pulse of what's happening better than any of us.
The vastness of Yellowstone and the limited access points make your planning, especially with a Plan B, especially important. We want everyone to get there safe and sound!
Kim
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I agree Kim, even with as much as Chrystal and I are there (2-3 times a year) there are too many road closures and detours to keep track of them. Each time it seems like we are getting detoured somewhere differently for one reason or another, not always road construction related. It will be even more important for those unfamiliar with the park to keep close tabs on the thread as well as the parks website/updates.
Mike.
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Coming to Yellowstone from Salt Lake City the Hell's Half Acre rest area on I-15 in Idaho has some great boardwalk trails that are signed so you know what type of lava bed formations you're walking over. Very interesting stop and a great place to walk out the kinks from driving.
ArdraF
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hi kim. took your advice and made reservation at grizzly for 5/26 to5/31 hope there will still be people left there from the rally looking forward to it,paul&retta
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paul&retta again we will be coming from the east on 90 to the Yellowstone rally should we come through the park or would there be a better way his time of year ,
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paul&retta again we will be coming from the east on 90 to the Yellowstone rally should we come through the park or would there be a better way his time of year ,
If you are on I-90 I would drop down and come through Gardner which is the "original" entrance. Then drop to Mammoth and on down to Norris and West @ Madison Junction and you will come out only a couple of blocks from Grizzly RV park when you enter West Yellowstone, MT.
Mike.
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Hi Kim,
Laurie & I are looking forward to the Yellowstone rally. We're leaving Benson around the 15th of April and have stops planned at Flagstaff, Page, Bryce, and SLC while heading north. From the Yellowstone rally, we're heading north to Alaska for the summer via the Marine Highway.
When do we need to confirm our reservations at Grizzly and how will they be handled? With the cheap fuel prices, the SKP park here in Benson is at 100% capacity almost all the time this winter and I would expect similar at Grizzly.
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Chip,
As discussed in the FAQ, your reservation is confirmed by your being on the list. The final payment options and last minute changes will be announced around March 1.
Kim
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Kim,
DW and i are getting more excited about this trip. I hope I haven't missed an email or message as it is passed March 1st.
Thanks
Steven Thum
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We'll be coming from the west along I-90. I haven't been that way in several decades, and don't remember which way into West Yellowstone is the better route with a motorhome..(287 or 191) but we're planning on gassing up at Costco in Bozeman... so 191 makes the most sense...IF the road is decent.
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Steven,
We will be announcing a cutoff for any new attendees later this week with several options for folks to make their payments. Time is flying!
Kim
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Boomer,
I have had the motorhome on the US 287 route which I found a bit less twisty than US 191, but my rule of thumb is US highways are motorhome roads. There are exceptions, no doubt, but everyone has their preference. I think the US 191 is a beautiful drive down the river, the other not quite as scenic, but ....
There are a couple of shorter passes on both, but nothing to walk away from - you are in the mountains!
Best advice is carefully watch the weather, just in case, but I think you'll be fine either way!
We will be in the park a week early getting organized and will be able to get folks some real time, boots on the ground road conditions, and will keep folks informed.
Kim
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Thank you Kim, yes time is flying.
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Check the FAQ (http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/index.php/topic,84928.0.html)! Latest info!
Kim
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We'll be coming from the west along I-90. I haven't been that way in several decades, and don't remember which way into West Yellowstone is the better route with a motorhome..(287 or 191) but we're planning on gassing up at Costco in Bozeman... so 191 makes the most sense...IF the road is decent.
Either hwy 287 or hwy191 are fine for large RV's. Hwy 287 is less twisty as Kim puts it but not by much. I prefer Hwy 191 mainly due to scenery, I love driving alongside the Gallatin River alongside hwy191. Although driving around Quack Lake and Hebgen Lake are quite scenic as well.
Mike.
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191 is my preference. I WANT to stop and have breakfast here:
http://innonthegallatin.com/the-cafe-at-the-inn/
Their pancakes (and breakfasts in general) have been rated as some of the best in the country...how can I resist? :P
I suspect we'll stay at least one night there on the way to the rally...IF I make it that far on the 2nd day.
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Have had lunch there, good food...the breakfast thing intrigues me.... 8)
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Have had lunch there, good food...the breakfast thing intrigues me.... 8)
https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/the-21-best-pancakes-in-america
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For lunch or dinner, try Gallatin Roadhouse Grill, near the turn off to Big Sky. Great barbecue, fun country vibe, live music. If it is warm enough, you can sit on the patio overlooking the Gallatin River. We ate there the last time we were in Yellowstone, doing a snow coach tour in February. One of our sons lives in Bozeman, and this place is definitely going to be on our list when we visit since we go through West Yellowstone to get to Bozeman.
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For those of you who might not have discovered this Yellowstone official website (https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm), there's a great deal of important information there, including information on what's open and closed on what dates, and road conditions.
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Hi Kim, can you give us an update on the site assignments? Thanks.
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I would like to know too please.
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Here is the link to the latest site assignments as posted by Kim: http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/index.php/topic,84928.0.html
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Thanks Sarge but the list hasn't been updated for awhile. The list was posted on April 10 and edited on April 14. Although Eric and I have a site assigned to us, there are several people new to the forum whom I convinced to attend the YNP rally including a couple from a different forum. Kim said I shouldn't feel responsible for them, but I do. He also said that there was one party who was holding up the assignment process but he had given them a deadline. Kim will probably update the assignment list very soon.
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Gotcha, thanks.
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Please refer to the FAQ for the latest important information on parking and payments!!!
We are officially in the short rows!
Kim
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Hi,
We are in the planning process and will be going West on I80 toward Salt Lake (our last visit was via Salt Lake, and Idaho Falls) and then North. I noticed earlier references to I90 and then US 287 and 191. I presume these are equally applicable to travelling North from I80? If not, I'd appreciate your comments.
Tx,,
Ernie
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Ernie,
We are coming up through SLC, then Fort Hall, then Grizzly from the south. That northern route would be more appropriate for folks coming from much farther north, I think.
Weather at the time is the big factor to me on which one.
Where are you coming from?
Kim
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Are there ever rally's in the southeast?
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I believe there was one in Georgia several years ago - got a suggestion?
Kim
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Hi,
We are in the planning process and will be going West on I80 toward Salt Lake (our last visit was via Salt Lake, and Idaho Falls) and then North. I noticed earlier references to I90 and then US 287 and 191. I presume these are equally applicable to travelling North from I80? If not, I'd appreciate your comments.
Tx,,
Ernie
Ernie, I agree with Kim, if you were already up north the I-90 and US287/191 would make more sense. If coming from the southern route through SLC, then merely stay on I-15 all the way to Idaho Falls (exit 119 I believe) then stay on Hwy20 all the way through Rexburg, Ashton and Island Park and into West Yellowstone, MT. Turn right on Electric Avenue and Grizzly will be about two blocks on your right.
Mike.
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I believe there was one in Georgia several years ago - got a suggestion?
Kim
I hear the blue ridge parkwayin North Carolina is nice.
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Hi,
We are in the planning process and will be going West on I80 toward Salt Lake (our last visit was via Salt Lake, and Idaho Falls) and then North. I noticed earlier references to I90 and then US 287 and 191. I presume these are equally applicable to travelling North from I80? If not, I'd appreciate your comments.
Tx,,
Ernie
We live in the SLC area. Take I-80 to I-84 to I-15 (north side of the SLC area). I-84 is an easier way to cross the Wasatch Mountains than I-80. Take Highway 20 in Idaho Falls (well marked as the path to Yellowstone). It leads right into West Yellowstone. This is the way we always head up. Highway 20 runs in the back side of the Tetons with some great views.
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I hear the blue ridge parkwayin North Carolina is nice.
Happy Camper,
We'll wander a little off the YNP topic for a moment to address your question.
Typically an RV Forum rally needs a park that can host up to 20-25 rigs at a time of various sizes from the largest to the smallest. Many places are just not set up for that. Often we negotiate a "rally rate" with the owners to benefit both the attendees and the owner filling up his sites.
On the other hand, a rally happens when someone decides to pick a date and a place and fires it up!
We will actually be coming down the East coast in November, stopping at Gaffney, SC for Freightliner, but if you want to fire up an interest post in the Rally section and see what you see, give it a shot! I'd be glad to help you!
There are many very good spots in the area as soon as you determine the boundaries of the "southeast"... 8) (I say that because I am an Arkansas Razorback in the Southeast Conference and we play Texas A&M and nobody who can read a map would consider College Station, TX the "southeast")
Kim
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Our current plan is DFW area to Salina KS(I35) I70 to Denver I25 N to pick up I80 then West toward SLC and North to Yellowstone. The last time we were in Moab so the trip was a straight shot North to Yellowstone.as Kim described.
I'd say the route West to then go North through SLC, etc. is about the same distance (1500Miles). Suggested routes?
Ernie
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Ernie
As mentioned before, take I 84 and that will bring to the south Ogden area, way better than 80 all the way to 15. Looking forward to seeing you.
Bill
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Our current plan is DFW area to Salina KS(I35) I70 to Denver I25 N to pick up I80 then West toward SLC and North to Yellowstone. The last time we were in Moab so the trip was a straight shot North to Yellowstone.as Kim described.
I'd say the route West to then go North through SLC, etc. is about the same distance (1500Miles). Suggested routes?
Ernie
If you want a scenic drive, still not too hard, stay on I70 through southern Utah to Highway 191. Head north through Price to Highway 6 to I 15. Wiggly canyons, gorgeous views, not bad on elevation changes. That's the way we always head to Denver even though we live about 10 miles from I 80 eastbound.
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Just noticed that I shoulda posted this on this thread:
Wondering if anyone plans to drive to West Y'stone from the "south"... Southern NM, West Tx, ... which route are you favoring? One that Google Maps suggested goes up thru Denver, Casper, then across Wy, then swing west of YNP... Another suggested a swing west thru Moab, SLC and up.. Another one goes thru Buena Vista to I-70, then west for a while and north again on some "secondary" highways 191/189...thru Jackson, The weather in Colorado might be a large factor especially for the high elevation routes...
this might show it: https://roadtrippers.com/map?lat=43.04731&lng=-110.71953&z=10&a2=t!14153480
thx.
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Another suggested a swing west thru Moab, SLC and up..
From Santa Fe, via Cortez, that's our route!
Kim
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We're on our way to Yellowstone now. We left the Tucson area via Phoenix to Flagstaff and then north on 89 with a stop in Page. We're presently stopped at Bryce Canyon for a week and will head to SLC for a couple of days and then to Yellowstone.
It's cold here at Bryce - below freezing every night. Even with the cold weather Bryce is as crowded as I've seen it in June before. The visitor center was packed yesterday. I hope these crowds aren't a prediction of what we'll see at Yellowstone this May.
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We're on our way to Yellowstone now. We left the Tucson area via Phoenix to Flagstaff and then north on 89 with a stop in Page. We're presently stopped at Bryce Canyon for a week and will head to SLC for a couple of days and then to Yellowstone.
It's cold here at Bryce - below freezing every night. Even with the cold weather Bryce is as crowded as I've seen it in June before. The visitor center was packed yesterday. I hope these crowds aren't a prediction of what we'll see at Yellowstone this May.
A co-worker of mine just went to Yellowstone last week and said there was no one there, it was great. He also said the weather wasn't the greatest and some areas were not going to be open until this week so that may have been a factor. I am sure that visitor numbers will do nothing but increase from here on into the season. Can't be any worse that 4th of July weekend though. ???
Mike.
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We have a linear route...I15 to 20...:)
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interesting websites re: YNP
detailed maps of the various hiking trails with guidance regarding what to see
http://www.trailguidesyellowstone.com/information/yellowstone_guided_day_hikes.php
videos of the hiking trails, quite amazing actually... Go Pro?
http://naturevalleytrailview.com/
Here are the YNP Yellow Bus trips... some won't start until June but some are available starting May 18, like the photo tour that leaves very early in the morning.
http://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/things-to-do/summer-things-to-do/adventures-on-land
webcam of Old Faithful:
https://www.nps.gov/features/yell/webcam/oldFaithfulStreaming.html
If anyone gets interested in some of these maybe we can connect?
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From Santa Fe, via Cortez, that's our route!
Kim
Kim,
Sounds like you've done this before... Have you used 191 up thru Jackson?
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I'll let someone else tell their story, but from SLC, that would not be my first choice in a larger motorhome towing.
But having done that route in a car, at park speeds, that might make for a long day. I just like the Idaho Falls, US 20 route better coming from the south.
Kim
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We have a linear route...I15 to 20...:)
What day are you leaving Vegas to head up there John?
Steve
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I driven into Yellowstone many times from all angles and my favorite is I-15>26>89>191. None of the routes in are scary in a motorhome unless you take 22 into Jackson.
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What day are you leaving Vegas to head up there John?
Steve
Right now plans are to leave Vegas on 5/13 drive to Fillmore, UT (284 miles), then onto Pocatello, ID 5/14 (308 miles) and drive into West Yellowstone on the 15th (158 miles).
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We are getting ready to leave Oceanside on 5/8 and heading to Mesquite over night, going to Moab for 4 nights then on to Lake Jordanelle State Park in Park City for 2 nights and then will be in Yellowstone on the 15th. Anyone going our way?
Looking forward to seeing/meeting everyone.
Anita and Jeff
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The South entrance to Yellowstone, from Tetons will not open until May 13.
Good roads, but easiest would be 20 from Idaho Falls, to West Yellowstone. The only long climb I can do with my gas coach and not drop below 45.
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Good reminder - I had forgotten about that!
Again, to all, make sure you know your way is clear!
Kim
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Because I have to work on Friday the 13th, but want to make it to the park by Sunday, we are planning the following schedule. Leave Burbank, CA Friday the 13th at 5:00pm to Las Vegas (280 miles) by 11:00pm. Do an overnight, then Saturday the 14th, Vegas to SLC (Ogden-430 miles) for an overnight. Then Sunday the 15th, Ogden to West Yellowstone (300 miles). We'd be happy to meet up with anyone at any point along the way. For sure we will take the most direct route I-15 to US 20. Looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones.
Steve & Dee
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WooHoo! It looks like, IF Kim is able to get our space back...we'll be joining youse folks after all. (I have a boat-load of stuff to get done, around the house and to the motorhome and toad before we leave...but assuming everything comes together, we'll be leaving Kitsap County, WA on the morning of Thursday 5/12. We'll stop for the night in Spokane, then head for "The Inn on the Gallatin," south of Bozeman. (about 425 miles) IF I can make it that far in one day. Not sure how much the various mountain passes will affect my average speed...going down...no problem!, 8) but going UP the hills... :-\
anyway...IF things go according to plan...and they rarely do, we should be in West Yellowstone somewhere around noon on Sunday.
If anyone coming from the northwest wants to hook up and caravan...I'm fine with that, just be aware...I stop for gas at Costcos about every 200-250 miles....and will hit Costco Missoula and Costco Bozeman for gas. ( I have no idea how much pulling the C-Max will affect my mileage...and my wife says she's NOT going to push the motorhome if I run out of gas...darned uppity wimmenz!)
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On the road - but you are in original site
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We are leaving the SLC area sometime between 8:00 and 8:30 on Sunday, heading straight to West Yellowstone. So many of us will be on I15 or Hwy 20 that day we should have created some kind of flag so we recognize the other travelers! We will be the folks in the smaller Outdoors RV Timber Ridge with a red truck. Honk if you see us. 😀
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Because I have to work on Friday the 13th, but want to make it to the park by Sunday, we are planning the following schedule. Leave Burbank, CA Friday the 13th at 5:00pm to Las Vegas (280 miles) by 11:00pm. Do an overnight, then Saturday the 14th, Vegas to SLC (Ogden-430 miles) for an overnight. Then Sunday the 15th, Ogden to West Yellowstone (300 miles). We'd be happy to meet up with anyone at any point along the way. For sure we will take the most direct route I-15 to US 20. Looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones.
Steve & Dee
Steve, fortunately I have a more leisurely schedule so I am taking my time driving from Vegas to West Yellowstone, don't tell Susan that I am actually leaving a day earlier than we must... ::)
I am seriously considering not even towing and just renting when we arrive. We'll see. Jeep weighed in at 4,620# curb weight today. We are searching for a full time toad, Ford Focus or such, but that's another discussion.
I am REALLY looking forward to this event and meeting up with friends and meeting new friends. Almost giddy... ;D
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I am seriously considering not even towing and just renting when we arrive. We'll see. Jeep weighed in at 4,620# curb weight today. We are searching for a full time toad, Ford Focus or such, but that's another discussion.
You might not need to rent. I'm sure there will be a number of folks who have room in their vehicles.
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Steve, fortunately I have a more leisurely schedule so I am taking my time driving from Vegas to West Yellowstone, don't tell Susan that I am actually leaving a day earlier than we must... ::)
I am seriously considering not even towing and just renting when we arrive. We'll see. Jeep weighed in at 4,620# curb weight today. We are searching for a full time toad, Ford Focus or such, but that's another discussion.
I am REALLY looking forward to this event and meeting up with friends and meeting new friends. Almost giddy... ;D
What's this crap John. I was hoping to see the Jeep are tricked out. :'( Besides, it's a Jeep, it doesn't want to be left behind.
Mike.
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I am going to post some numbers in the Towing thread...please advise.
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What's this crap John. I was hoping to see the Jeep are tricked out. :'( Besides, it's a Jeep, it doesn't want to be left behind.
Mike.
After confirming my numbers, it looks like towing is not an issue. I'll be bringing "Red Rover" along. What in the world is this thing with naming Jeeps? :o
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After confirming my numbers, it looks like towing is not an issue. I'll be bringing "Red Rover" along. What in the world is this thing with naming Jeeps? :o
Good for you. As for naming them, I guess "it's a Jeep thing." ;D
Mike.
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Hi,
We're about to give the overheating problem the acid test. Arrived in Larado this afternoon and will head out on I80 over the mountains to Salt Lake in the AM. Hope to arrive at KOA around 4:00 in the pm.
Please advise of any adverse conditions or happenings.
Thanks,
Ernie
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What in the world is this thing with naming Jeeps? :o
Blame Roy Rogers:
NELLYBELLE
One of the most memorable characters on the Roy Rogers TV show that ran from 1951 through 1957 was neither Roy, Dale, Trigger, Buttermilk or even Bullet - or for that matter even made of flesh and blood. It was a TV icon manufactured from good old American steel and named Nellybelle, a 1946 Willys CJ-2A Jeep with some very innovative bodywork. It was in fact owned by Roy, but was driven in the show by his comic sidekick, Pat Brady (1914-1972). Brady met Rogers while appearing as a bass guitarist in California in 1935, striking up a friendship with the young country & western singer who was a member of the popular group, The Sons of the Pioneers. When Len Slye was elevated to screen stardom as Roy Rogers, he recommended Brady as his replacement. However, as Bob Nolan, an original member of The Sons, was referred to as Bob, "Bob Brady" became "Pat Brady" joining the legendary singing group and appearing in a dozen films between 1938-51, including West of Cheyenne (1938), Man from Sundown (1939), The Durango Kid (1940), Song of Texas (1943), Bells of Coronado (1950), and South of Caliente (1951).
On TV, Pat Brady drove around Mineral City, the setting of the series, sweet talking to Nellybelle as if his verbal compliments could convince the recalcitrant jeep to get up and go. The name, which was painted on her doors in most episodes, apparently developed out of Pat riding an ornery mule in the earlier movies, and addressing it with phrases like "Whoa, Nelly!"
Roy Rogers chose to include a Jeep into the program because he noticed that after WWII, Jeeps were very popular, especially with children. Rogers himself owned a Jeep which he used for hunting, off road cruising and travel to and from his studio.
KEYWORDS
20th Century
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Please advise of any adverse conditions or happenings.
At the moment, the weather in SLC looks a little stormy late Friday, but nothing to keep your from traveling. Hopefully, the cooler temps might help alleviate any heating issues.
Safe travels!
Kim
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We just checked into Elco for an over nighter. We head for SLC tomorrow.
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Hey Ernie, just saw your handiwork in Terry & Alice Esslingers coach, Beautiful! They arrived today.
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That's a different Ernie. He does beautiful work but I'm the lazy Ernie with the Dozer (orangie) Rubicon.
Ernie
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Oops.
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Hey,
Right now we're parked at the Provo Elks club. It's about 30 miles south of the KOA in SLC. We're the only ones here. They have 5 spaces with full hookups and 50A power on a level paved lot. And you can't beat the price at $20.00 / night with a really nice club house serving adult beverages within walking distance.
I'm sure this stay here is going to cost, though. We're within walking distance of a large shopping center and of course the first thing DW noticed is they have a large Dillards - her favorite place to shop. Plans have already been made for a whole afternoon there.
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We are leaving Minnesota on May 10. We plan to take I94 to I90.
Is it better to:
A. Take I90 to Livingston and then go south on 89 to Gardiner through the north entrance, down to Norris Junction and then on to Grizzly, or
B. Take I90 to Bozeman and then take 191 to the west entrance and Grizzly?
What are the pros and cons of each route? Scenery, travel time, driving challenges, etc.?
We have not driven in the mountains much less pulled a TT through the mountains. Thanks for the advice.
We look forward to meeting everyone on May 15. Cheers!
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I haven't been on those roads in about 3 decades...so I really can't...and won't even try to advise on those issues...BUT, if you come down 191, be sure to allow time for a stop here:
http://innonthegallatin.com/
Their pancakes are rated as some of the very best in the country...
https://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/the-21-best-pancakes-in-america
There's just NO WAY I can pass up a place that's that highly rated...:D
(it's no farkin wonder I can't manage to shed pounds.) :P
IF Everything goes according to plan, we SHOULD be at the Inn on Friday night...and ready for breakfast on Saturday. 8)
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Is it better to:
A. Take I90 to Livingston and then go south on 89 to Gardiner through the north entrance, down to Norris Junction and then on to Grizzly, or
B. Take I90 to Bozeman and then take 191 to the west entrance and Grizzly?
Since we have a son in Bozeman, we have done both paths a number of times. The easy way is just Bozeman to 191. It is as direct as you can be in the mountains, and very pretty. Wiggly in a few places, but with nice pullouts. You need to remember that Montana has a law that says you need to pull over if vehicles back up behind you, but they do provide the pullouts to do so. My son makes it from Bozeman to West Yellowstone in just over an hour, but plan on two in a motor home without crazy driver.
Going through Gardiner will be lovely but much more time consuming due to the driving speed in the park. I would recommend doing that drive in a toad during the rally when you can take the time to enjoy it.
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The easy way is just Bozeman to 191. It is as direct as you can be in the mountains, and very pretty. Wiggly in a few places, but with nice pullouts.
Well then it's 191. Thanks!
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Since we have a son in Bozeman, we have done both paths a number of times. The easy way is just Bozeman to 191. It is as direct as you can be in the mountains, and very pretty. Wiggly in a few places, but with nice pullouts. You need to remember that Montana has a law that says you need to pull over if vehicles back up behind you, but they do provide the pullouts to do so. My son makes it from Bozeman to West Yellowstone in just over an hour, but plan on two in a motor home without crazy driver.
Going through Gardiner will be lovely but much more time consuming due to the driving speed in the park. I would recommend doing that drive in a toad during the rally when you can take the time to enjoy it.
^^^This. We've done both various times and seeing as how you will have a vehicle to go exploring the park with, you can see the north (Original) entrance without the trailer. I-90 to Bozeman and then 191 straight into West is spectucular, follows the Galatin River and well worth the drive but also the most direct of the two.
Mike.
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Another perspective for you, Max, is that the urge to start shooting pictures will overwhelm you and you won't be able to stop where you need to stop if you come through the park all hooked up.
US 191 from Bozeman will be a gentle introduction to the landscape and the river is really pretty as you come down.
At the moment, West Yellowstone is a ghost town compared to what it will be like at the end of the month. Grizzly is lightly populated and life is good!
See everybody soon! Weather here was glorious yesterday, sunshine and quite cool early.
Here's what you see when you come into the park from the west entrance...
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Attention those coming into West Yellowstone via US 191 from Bozeman!
There is a construction delay in the Big Sky area, roughly halfway down, where one lane only will be open and they are using a pilot car. That can be a 30 minute delay if you hit it wrong.
It's possible that work might be completed by this weekend, but...
Kim
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30 minutes? Heck...time for a sammich! ;D
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Hey Kim, we hear that you may get 2" of snow tonight, is that what you guys hear?
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http://m.accuweather.com/en/us/west-yellowstone-mt/59758/weather-forecast/2209709
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Hey Kim, we hear that you may get 2" of snow tonight, is that what you guys hear?
It was flurrying earlier, supposed to get 2" to 4", but who knows...we're at 6600' here and the snow line is predicted at 5500' so .....
The highways will be clear and they'll clear and sand the passes. We're hunkered down and excited! Snow would make for some great wildlife shots and the Jeep is fueled.
Marc and Jimmie Kay Fisher arrived earlier and folks are dribbling in this week!
Bring it on!
Kim
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That's the spirit Kim. We have never let a little weather deter us from enjoying our RV and traveling.
Although I will admit, the tornado warning in Texas last year freaked us out a bit. ??? Don't like those swirlin' winds.
Mike.
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Kim,
I started to dewinterize the Beaver and encountered a water leak. Naturally the shops nearby are all booked up. Is it possible to transfer my reservation to a cabin instead? We still want to make this rally, but I'm afraid the Beaver won't be ready soon, especially if it turns out to be the water manifold itself (as I suspect).
Thanks.
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Kim,
Just talked to Grizzly - they've put us in cabin C 15, and they said to just notify you, but the change is all handled, nothing for you to do.
Thanks.
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Now that we're stuck with non-RV travel for this trip, I have to decide whether to bring the Jeep or the F-150 crew cab. Since we have to bring bedding, dishes, utensils, etc. with us, besides suitcases, the F-150 has more capacity, but both vehicles are comfortable for traveling and can work.
The really big question now is whether there is a "jeep trip" being planned that would not be doable for the F-150. The Wrangler Unlimited would be snug on storage for the stuff we need to bring, though it's probably doable, but I need to know if it's worth the cramping of space and leaving a few things behind.
Thanks for any input.
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You drive one, she drives the other.
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Nice thought, but she doesn't work that way. ::)
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Larry,
I have my eyes on a couple of short Jeep trips that could be worked in, nothing crazy, just explorations and not in YNP, but think everyone is going to be real busy in the park.
I would trade comfort over utility on this trip and catch a ride if someone goes wheeling. 8)
Kim
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OK -- thanks, Kim. The F-150 is 4WD with 20" tires, but of course it's somewhat large with a long wheelbase, so that would determine whther it could make it on a trail. Barring something really attractive, then, I'll just plan on the F-150.
Thanks.
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Kim,
I started to dewinterize the Beaver and encountered a water leak. Naturally the shops nearby are all booked up. Is it possible to transfer my reservation to a cabin instead? We still want to make this rally, but I'm afraid the Beaver won't be ready soon, especially if it turns out to be the water manifold itself (as I suspect).
Thanks.
That sucks Larry. Sorry to hear you won't be bringing the coach.
Mike.
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I'd be in for a Jeep'n trip......
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Marty there are some trails over in the Gravely range. Not serious 4wd but great sightseeing.
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Cool, I don't need to hard core rock climb to have a good time. Sometimes it's just nice to get off of the beaten path and see what's out there.
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Bill, who is very familiar with the area, and I just had a short discussion and if folks need a break from the park, there are several interesting Jeep day trips that could be easily added to the agenda. No rock crawling but some great scenery and manageable off the pavement stuff.
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That sucks Larry. Sorry to hear you won't be bringing the coach.
Mike.
Thanks, Mike -- me too. But at least I've found an alternative way to attend; better than nothing.
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Load the Jeep on a trailer and pull behind the 150.
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Bill, who is very familiar with the area, and I just had a short discussion and if folks need a break from the park, there are several interesting Jeep day trips that could be easily added to the agenda. No rock crawling but some great scenery and manageable off the pavement stuff.
Count us in for these trips.
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We will be bringing our Jeep and are up for some off-road scenery.
Jeff
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Due to the recent snow some of the off road trails may be a bit muddy. There are other day trip options for those who might get board with the park.
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Count us in for Jeep'n.
Ernie
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Crap...due to a couple of unexpected delays...we're not going to get out of here until Friday now...That SHOULD put us in West Yellowstone mid-day on Sunday. (could POSSIBLY arrive late Saturday...but I doubt it.) No hurry...I'm taking a vacation from my vacation! :P (and maybe one of youse folks will turn on the heat there so it's not so danged cold! ) ;D
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(and maybe one of youse folks will turn on the heat there so it's not so danged cold! ) ;D
Aaah, that heater takes a while to get things warm, but it does pretty well by mid-morning, then slacks off in the evening... ::)
Sorry 'bout your vacation2...
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Additional arrival info has been posted in the FAQ (http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/index.php/topic,84928.0.html) - please take a look.
Any questions, ask them here, please!
Kim
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Disappointed we can't get to the Gallatin Roadhouse - that is good food! At least the trip to Bullwinkle's will be close.
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Disappointed we can't get to the Gallatin Roadhouse - that is good food! At least the trip to Bullwinkle's will be close.
I think Bullwinkle's was the place we ate at in September and it was quite good as well.
Mike.
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Larry N,
There are no off road adventures in Yelllowstone. You won't need a Jeep unless you plan on adventures outside the Park. There are a couple of drives out of Cook City in the Northeast area but not worth it if there aren't any other areas you want to explore.
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Bill, who is very familiar with the area, and I just had a short discussion and if folks need a break from the park, there are several interesting Jeep day trips that could be easily added to the agenda. No rock crawling but some great scenery and manageable off the pavement stuff.
YES.
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Thanks, Jim -- I'll bring the F-150 for its capacity.
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I think Bullwinkle's was the place we ate at in September and it was quite good as well.
Mike.
It was the place we ate at last year. I have always had good food there. It should be a great evening.
Off to the Bozeman airport to pick up Corinne. :)
Bill
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Kim,
Diana and I will arrive Saturday. We have already made the reservations. Looking forward to this.
Steven Thum
scdiver
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Kim,
The Gray's will be arriving on Saturday. I have already called Grizzly to reserve Sat night. We have spent 2 days in Custer State Park and heading out for Yellowstone tomorrow. See everyone Saturday! Joe & Patty
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Hello everyone,
Max and Eric will be arriving on Sunday. We have a few repair issues that can probably wait until we get to West Yellowstone. If we can't deal with the repairs on our own hopefully there will be an RV service in the area.
1. No hot water after the dealer dewinterized the TT.
2. Rear electric stabilizing feet not working. Worst case is we have to manually operate.
3. We forgot to adjust the height of the hitch to match up with the new RAM.
So nothing major.
See you on Sunday.
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We got kind of a late start...but as much crap as my wife kept hauling out to the coach...(it was ALL her fault...trust me)... :P I decided I'd better run it across a scale before setting out. Woohoo! We had over 2000 lbs to spare!
We hit the road at 12:30 and made it to Spokane. If everything goes well...we SHOULD make Bozeman tomorrow, and West Yellowstone on Sunday.
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Boomer,
We're here, you'll be here.
Safe travels!
Kim
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1. No hot water after the dealer dewinterized the TT.
Check to make sure that the bypass valve on the water heater is not in the bypass position. If you are not sure, DO NOT put power to the water heater unless you are CERTAIN there is water in the tank. You can burn out the heating element and ruin the tank.
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Sign us up for the off roading excursion !
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We just had a mini rally before the rally. We are in Ogden, Utah and met up with Mike & Chrystal Zuech (zmotorsports) for dinner and some quality catching up time. Our forum Framily are the best. Planning to leave Ogden around 8am tomorrow. Should put us there around 3pm. Looking forward to it.
Steve & Dee
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We decided to stop in Butte for the night. We should be there noonish I think...IF I don't stay too long eating pancakes at the Inn on the Gallatin... :P
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Since we are early risers and prefer the scenic route, what do y'all think of ;
Leaving Jackson WY on 33 heading west > 31 to cross the mountain to Swan Valley, > 26 > 48 > 20 heading north ?
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We're in Pinedale, WY, and will be there probably noonish.
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Check the updated FAQ!! (http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/index.php/topic,84928.0.html)
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Since we are early risers and prefer the scenic route, what do y'all think of ;
Leaving Jackson WY on 33 heading west > 31 to cross the mountain to Swan Valley, > 26 > 48 > 20 heading north ?
You may have already gone, and I don't know that route across to Swan Valley (which looks a little hilly), but you may want to stay on 33 all the way to 20. I have driven that in a car, it's a little twisty and turny, but very scenic through the potato farms.
But if you came out of Jackson on Hwy 33 and survived the Teton Pass, you'll be good anywhere! 8)
Kim
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Kim, thanks. We like twisty turny scenic roads. Al decided to do all our laundry before we head out this morning so I caught your message.
Remind me to tell you the story of how we squeezed our trailer through a McDonald's drive through in Raleigh.
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There'll be plenty of campfire stories from this trip, we'll just add yours to the list!
Safe travels!
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Some Bison Pics by Coleen on Sunday Evening just north of W. YS. on highway 191
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some more:
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last ones:
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Nice pics hope we get to see some tomorrow
Bill
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Great pics Gary & Colleen. See you in a few days.
Mike.
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Gary and Colleen beat me to the punch, but I opened a thread with a sticky in the Rally section (http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/index.php/topic,94436.0.html) for everyone to post their YNP pictures!
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For those who have extended or have the time, Beartooth Highway is scheduled to open Monday! (http://beartoothhighway.com/ne-entrance-to-yellowstone-parkcooke-city-montana-opens/)
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Today has been quite.the day for bison jams. Took us 3 hours to.go from the west entrance to Old Faithful. Bison...walking down the center line...or.right down the middle of the lanes of traffic.
Just another day in Yellowstone.
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Around 10:30 or so, we were only in it for one.
There was a crippled mother with a red dog at the back of the pack, and everyone was stopping. Have mercy!
Kim
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Yeah...we saw her and one other lame bison. I just know I should have stopped and loaded them into the back of the C-Max and taken them to the ranger station for care... :P
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We left the cabin about 9, and arrived at Old Faithful about 11, 1:45 of that in the jam. The Momma with the limp actually passed us a couple of times.
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Larry,
Now that's sad.... :'(
K
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We had to turn around a mile or so into the west entrance. Far too many buffalo for our dogs. They can only eat one or two at a time. ;)
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Wow, starting early, but bison jams can happen anytime. Yesterday Jim & Pat Dick and I had to attend training in Mammoth, we were on the road very early. No issues on either end of the trip with vehicles.
We heard from many areas of NPS, including Bison management, Wolf project, Bears etc. Plus a heads up on a busy summer. Very interesting day, although it was also pretty long.
My suggestion is to get into the park early. Not as many early morning bison jams. Nowhere near the number of cars. Enjoy your day and head back out by between3 and 4. Later in the day everyone else is on the way out. OR have dinner here and head out after 7PM.