NATIONAL PARKS DAY 2: Due northeast from Norris is the Lamar Valley . Thanks to a reliable water supply, lush vegetation and panoramic vistas, it’s known as “America’s Serengeti” for its large, easily visible wildlife population. On any given day, you might see herds of bison, pronghorn or deer; bald eagles and osprey in flight; or a badger, coyote or grizzly. Nature-loving anglers can kill (or rather, catch and release) two birds with one stone, as the tranquil Lamar River offers some of Yellowstone’s best fly-fishing. Surrounded by rolling verdant hills in all directions — and interrupted only by glimpses of the valley’s plentiful fauna — visitors can expect to hook both rainbow and native Yellowstone cutthroat trout up to 15 inches long. This afternoon, you’re headed due south for an up-close-and-personal view of Yellowstone Lake . The largest high-elevation lake in North America and nearly 400 feet deep in places, it’s too cold for swimming but is wonderful to explore by kayak or canoe. Because of the lake’s many hidden underwater geysers, submerged fumaroles and other geothermal features, we recommend a guided tour with one of the many outfitters in the area. After your paddle, enjoy a rewarding dinner in the charming Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room before bidding farewell to the park — until next time. @Rennett Stowe YELLOWSTONE LAKE “The land around Yellowstone was historically claimed by many native indigenous tribes; my tribe — the Northern Arapaho — being one of those. The translation we have for Yellowstone is ‘the water goes up,’ which I think is a cool translation. I know that historically my family members have been there and seen that.” — ROBERT MARTINEZ Award-winning Northern Arapaho Artist LAKE YELLOWSTONE HOTEL DINING ROOM PLAN YOUR TRIP. Browse listings for places to stay starting on p. 81 and find outfitters starting on p. 95. @sarikalivingwild YOUR HOME BASE IN YELLOWSTONE (HINT: BOOK NOW) Find the perfect headquarters for your getaway and book it as soon as possible. Depending on the season, spots get booked months — or sometimes even a year — in advance. LODGES, HOTELS & CABINS From the elegant Lake Hotel to the Roosevelt Lodge inspired by Teddy himself, there are nine different lodging facilities in Yellowstone. Wi-Fi and TVs can be scarce in this neck of the woods, however, so bring that paperback book you’ve been saving. CAMPGROUNDS There are 12 campgrounds with more than 2,000 sites, and reservations are made through yellowstonenationalparklodges. com and recreation.gov. Backcountry sites are also available with a permit. OUTSIDE THE PARK Whether you’re seeking a bed-and-breakfast hideaway, a cozy cabin or a Western-inspired inn, there are dozens of accommodation options within the gateway communities of Cody (50 miles east), Jackson (60 miles south) and Dubois (80 miles southeast). 46 FROM TOP: FLICKR/RENNETT STOWE, INSTAGRAM/SARIKALIVINGWILD.
Wyoming Official Travel Guide 2023 Wyoming Official Travel Guide: Page 46
