It’s barely spring, and there’s still snow blanketing the high country, but they’re already advertising the switch from snowmobiles to bicycles in Yellowstone National Park.
Bicycles? Now? In the land of geysers and bears and bison? Yes, now, before the summer crowds overrun the landscape.
www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/springbike.htm
According to one page of the park Web site, until the roads are reopened to motorized vehicles, probably in late April, certain routes are open to bicyclists, joggers, hikers and even inline skaters. In places, you might have to wait until the snowplows are finished. Be sure to read the tips: don’t brother the bison and take bear spray just in case.
Whether you go now or wait until summer, go to the park’s main page to learn about the history of America’s first national park, its wildlife and the awesome scenery. “Photos &Multimedia” has a Web cam aimed at the Old Faithful geyser, and a collection of videos you access by clicking on a park map. As with any national park Web site, “Plan Your Visit” has lots of valuable info on things to see and do and know before you go.
Yellowstone Net advertises lodging reservations, hotel reviews, and information on the area’s fly fishing, waterfalls (check the photo of Union Falls), geysers, wildlife, Top 10 attractions and more Web cams.
Look under “Things to Do” at YellowstonePark.com for another list of Top 10 Things To Do, including whitewater rafting and hiking some of the park’s 1,300 miles of trails. They have their own collection of videos about the park and podcast guides. And if you click on “Maps &Travel Routes,” you’ll find downloadable guides for your trips to the park from major starting points.
gorp.away.com/gorp/resource/us_national_park/wy_yello.htm
Don’t forget that this is a great slice of the outdoors begging for you to park the car and go exploring. The outdoors specialists at GORP have a guide to the park’s nature trails, fishing and boating, and wildlife viewing.
If you want to stay in one of the park’s famous lodges, they’re operated by Xanterra Parks &Resorts. Try for a room in the Old Faithful Inn.
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