Artist Point

There are those moments that define ultimate beauty and move us to an emotion far beyond our expectations. Artist Point provides the incredible gift this morning.



We are up early because we're moving north today, planning on ending the day and spending the evening at Mammoth at the north entrance to the park. En route we explore the canyon area and arrive at Artist Point early.




Our ranger friend from yesterday has given good advise for this itinerary and emphasizes the must see vista here. I am overwhelmed. As the short hike brings the amazing spot into view, my thoughts are clear - I don't believe I've ever seen anything this beautiful. The tears flow - it's clearly my moment.



































There is no doubt why this is such a photographed and painted area - words can't describe.





















The drive from here has many overlooks showing various parts of the high and low falls and all are spectacular. The grand canyon of Yellowstone is equally stunning. Inspiration Point a marvel.





We spend nearly three hours exploring this incredible section of the park. It is a highlight of our trip so far.



The day is gorgeous, the scenery beyond scope and I'll take my morning moment with me for a very long while.

Momma and Baby Welcome

Finally, we reach the gates of Yellowstone. Immediately, the weather clears and all that we have heard about this amazing place becomes instantly apparent. It is stunning!










The valley leads us into the upper section of the canyon where we find our first waterfall and a deer along the path. The perfect welcome!

















From the canyon we find ourselves climbing once more into the mountains and once again the snow begins. We are getting used to the weather fluctuations by now and just laugh. At a pass, we are welcomed further to this magnificent place by a momma grizzly and her two cubs. They are at a safe distance below our vista, so the sight is exhilarating as opposed to frightening. It's the way we want to encounter these amazing animals not on a hiking path alone! We now truly know we're in Yellowstone!




















As we make our way through the park to our destination tonight at the south side in Grant Village, we encounter several more sunny and clear drives interspersed with snow. It's unbelievable. But, completely worthy of the diverse scenery we encounter along the way. Every turn presents another wow!













Our Vue is ready for quite an adventure here!!!

Light Shows and Cliffs in Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls, South Dakota is a pretty place. We are quite surprised by what South Dakota is presenting. Though a bit tired, we decide to take in the lights and sound show at Falls Park, as weather is good tonight and is promising to not be so the next few days. It is worth the effort. The park is beautiful and watching families gather on the lawn for the evening is a very pleasing sight. Wells Fargo presents the history of this town with lasers and changing colors on the falls. Sitting out on the lawn and taking it all in for the hour and a half we're here is a lovely welcome to this true taste of Americana.


































We once again work our schedule around morning rain and, as the skies clear in the afternoon, we head out for some state park sightseeing. What rewards are in store for us here.

















A short drive to Garretson hosts Palisades State Park and packs quite a punch for such a small area. The cliffs are amazing and again we are so surprised by what we are finding in South Dakota. The perfect picnic spot is found before we explore several easy hikes leading us from one beautiful place to another.














We soak up the incredible scenery and spend several hours at this lovely park before heading on. Our afternoon plans are full as we try to squeeze in a day's worth of activity in just half the time. We're, of course, up for the challenge! Certainly enjoying the tour so far!

Upstate Beauty

Several parks in this very pretty city provide yet more trails, gorges and waterfalls. Robert H. Treman State Park presents more than most state parks combined could provide. We can't believe what we find here!



The lower falls host a swimming hole, although not officially opened today, brimming with early guests who have waited long enough for the warmth to make an appearance this spring. We find many families pouring in this afternoon, all enjoying the crystal clear pool of refreshment. The Gorge Trail connects 2 1/2 miles upstream to the higher falls. We opt to drive to the top and hike a mile of the upper falls, combined with the ridge trail for what appears to be the optimum views. And, oh, are we rewarded beautifully!



























































It is hard to imagine anything that could rival what we experience here, and we know the western portion of our trip will be spectacular. But, New York state is a force to be reckoned, there is no doubt!






Though the climb is quite steep, Celeste claims this would be an advanced hike for New Life, the payoff is more than worth the effort. We love it here!!!





After a full day of hiking, gorgeous vistas and beautiful falls, we concede and take a quick auto tour through the darling downtown area, evident of college life. We can't help but stop in at Jason's convenience store - fro yo and all. We think of both Jason and Ash at this destination, needless to say!

Our home away from home provides dinner for us this evening and we're quite happy as we've exerted a lot of energy on our Ithaca tour today. Plans for a good night's rest a must as we head to Canada in the morning!!!!

Wildflowers and Waterfalls

Our journey from New Life en route to Niagara Falls takes us through the beautiful finger lake region of New York. We both fall in love with this area. Base will be at the Homewood Suites in Ithaca for a couple of nights, good midpoint stop, comfortable accommodations and a wonderful area for exploring some of the gorgeous outdoor amenities that abound.














Cornell University is a five minute drive and we find their magnificent Plantations to explore first thing. The wildflower garden is impressive housed along the river. Meandering here is paradise.
















The arboretum presents magnificent views along it's two mile trail and a suspension bridge takes us onto a very pretty back trail also skirting the river. There is a plethora of options in this piece of heaven and we soak up as much as possible this morning.

























A quick tour through the main campus escorts us to Ithaca Falls where we picnic, plant our sunflower seeds and gape in awe at the tremendous waterfall we're able to virtually touch. It's the perfect prelude to the next day's grand Niagara and we get more excited by the minute.




We pause a good while here soaking it in before jetting to our next adventure in this amazing place!