My winter adventure in Yellowstone began with a few days of crosscountry adventure. Besides staying at two different places and travelling 1500 miles by air (400 by road) - I had to haul a couple hundred pounds of luggage with me. To be honest, my biggest concern was how I was going to be able to get everything down to Old Faithful. Surprisingly enough, the trip was very smooth and I managed to get all settled in with very little hassle.
It is amazing to be in the park with snow. This past summer we had a pretty good snow in late September, but nothing like this. The depth of the snow at Old Faithful varies from one to two feet and, since it is winter, none of it is melting anytime soon.
Travel is different in that most people are skiing or snowmobiling. I don’t have my skis yet, so I am still walking. Believe me, it is not that easy to walk in this much snow. Another hazard of walking is paying attention to where you go because it is considered impolite to walk on the ski trails!
So far, no cabin fever. It is getting dark between about 4:30 and 5 and most people don’t stay out past that time. Once I start work, I will be able to establish a schedule that allows me to utilize my daylight hours to their fullest.
I started work on Friday (12/15). Monday (12/18) is when we open and I will be working in either the Espresso Bar near the lobby or the Bear Den Gift Shop near the Geyser Grill. It will be interesting to meet and talk to all the people that come to visit Yellowstone in the winter. If any of you happen to come into the park, stop by and say hello!
Until next time, take care and have a great holiday season!
