upward over the mountain

I mentioned we had a busy September with weekend trips, but for sure the crowning jewel was 5 days of backpacking in Yellowstone. Our friend Steven was a ranger there years ago so when he planned a trip it was a no brainer to go...even though September weather that north scared the bejebbus out of me (I have no interest in snow and tent sleeping).

But none of my concern was warranted; hands down that trip was one of the single most amazing experiences of my life. Like, it was perfect. We had beautiful weather that kindly only rained at night while we were cozy sleeping and warmed up during the day for perfect cool hiking temperature. The autumn leaves and colors were stunning and the company was easy and fun. Plus Steven planned almost everyday ending with a dip in hot springs, so tired bodies were comforted and healed from long days of moving...like I said, perfect.

Full crew

permit

these meadows were sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo pretty
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like so pretty I couldn't stop taking pictures

hot springs at Dunanda Falls

beautiful skies

I was serious about these meadows

one of the handful of times we had to ford a river

in the heart of Bechler Canyon

where we came from, where we were headed

Mr. Bubbles hot springs

Aaron on day 4

I carried s'mores in my pack supplies for this moment

happy campers

last day

Lone Star Geyser

that is Old Faithful off in the distance, which meant we were only a car ride away from pizza in Jackson Hole

calorie burn reward!

I can't wait for next year's trip.