Yellowstone National Park, Lamar Valley - 8/24/14

After visiting the Middle Geyser and Norris Geyser Basins, we headed for Lamar Valley located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park. It's about 60 miles from where we are staying in West Yellowstone, east of the Roosevelt Lodge.

This beautiful, wide, expansive valley is often referred to as America's Serengeti. It is the perfect environment for grizzly bears, bison, elk, wolves, pronghorns, coyotes, and many species of birds. In addition to the wildlife in this area, the landscape is spectacular with mountain, meadow and river views of the Lamar River and Soda Butte Creek.

Lamar River.

We saw evidence of grizzly bears here (tracks, scat, etc.), but, unfortunately, did not see any.

Views along the banks of the Lamar River.

Part of a herd of bison.

Chillin' in the meadow.

On the move.

Valley views.

Soda Butte: This is a travertine mound formed by a hot spring 100+ years ago.

Hydrothermal water flowing from the butte.

Love this orange lichen!

Cliff swallow nests.

Soda Butte Spring.

Contemplating a swim.

Mallards in the spring.

Slough Lake.

Valley view.

Wildflowers.

So beautiful...

We saw about 10 herds of bison, a grizzly in the distance, pronghorns, an eagle and many other birds. This valley is a "must-see" for those visiting Yellowstone. Many thanks to our friend and tour guide, Lynn, for telling us about it.

On the drive back to West Yellowstone, we encountered this big old bison, who just wanted to walk down the middle of the road!

Admission to Yellowstone is $25/vehicle or an annual pass can be purchased. John's Senior Pass gets us in for free (such a bargain!)

Website: www.nps.gov/yell