The Magic of Yellowstone. Day One.

Yellowstone is such a magical place! It becomes even more so when you realize you're atop an active volcano. The park is immense and filled with splendor in all directions. Then, there js the wildlife. So much to see and do and so little time. We are glad we don't have to pack up our tent and be on our way today. We'll spend the next 2-3 days in the Yellowstone/Grand Teton parks.

The drive into Yellowstone was spectacular "as usual". We set up camp and then rested a bit. Also, I was impressed to see how the park is run very efficiently with tons of visitor facilities. You can virtually find all the comforts from home.

Based on the recommendation from Jake, a friend of Juan's, we headed to Lamar Valley in the afternoon. Mentioning that it was the "Serengeti
of the Americas" sold us.

It was amazing to encounter all the wildlife along the road. We were filled with adrenaline when we saw a bear with two cubs crossing the road right in front of us. While everybody can take shelter on their cars, there we were - exposed on our motorcycles with really no easy escape. There are cars in front and behind you blocking your way and you're left with very little room to maneuver. It's great that you're up close at all times when riding the bike, but we want to make it back in one piece. It is hard to decide whether to keep your hand on the throttle or your finger on the shutter. We also saw a fierce chipmunk and I risked my life to take a picture for Sofia and Sebastian. They'd be running after them if they were here.

Today we'll give the bikes a bit of a break and do some hiking.