2016/09 Wyoming

We decided to take a break from long-distance flying for our vacation this year, and drive up to Wyoming instead. After a quick overnight in Utah on the drive up, we joined with our friends (the Hansens, Russells, and Curtis) at the Big Sandy trailhead to venture into the Bridger Wilderness. We spent two nights with our friends, making the journey up to Deep Lake and to Ryan's plaque on the side of Steeple Peak. Lindsey and I then ventured off on our own to the Cirque of the Towers region. After a beautiful first evening in the Cirque, we spent all of the next day bundled inside our tent during the non-stop rain and snow storm. Fortunately, it cleared a bit the next day so that we could escape over Jackass Pass to return to the car. Our next stop was two nights at the Signal Mountain Inn in Grand Teton National Park, before moving on for two nights at Madison Campground in Yellowstone National Park. From there, we moved on to two nights at the Canyon Lodge in Yellowstone (meeting up with Nate Mohr along the way), before starting a two-night backpacking trip in the Black Canyon region of the park. From there, we decided to change our plans somewhat and return to Grand Teton National Park rather than spending more time in Yellowstone. Unfortunately, the weather turned a bit foul, and so we decided not to make use of the backcountry permit we had and instead stay in a hotel. After three nights in the park, it was then time to head home (with a quick stop in Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada).