My trip to Yellowstone and surroiunding areas of Montana began on August 18, 2006. Using West Yellowstone as a base, I explored the area by hiking and driiving. On the road by 6:30 each morning to beat the crowds and view wildlife. After a week in the park I left via the Lamar Valley on the Beartooth Highway. Smoke from forest fires obscured the views as I headed through Columbus and Livingston to Big Sky. From Big sky I drove a loop past Quake Lake, to ghost towns of Bannack and Virginia City. During this vacation I logged over 2,000 miles, on the car and a few on my hiking boots as well!

For additional Yellowstone shots see the Big Sky ski trip under the SJSC section. I took a side trip from Big sky in March 07 to the limited area of Yellowstone that was open in winter to car traffic.