Yellowstone

We went to Yellowstone National Park last weekend sans Jessie, who stayed at the Boppie Champagne Resort and Spa.  We cross country skied and stayed at Chico Hot Springs just north of the Gardiner entrance.  We had gorgeous weather the whole time - bluebird skies and temps ranging from the single digits to the 30s.  It seemed very warm most of the time, even when it was below 15 because of the bright sun and calm wind.  We skied around Tower Junction down a closed road that was actually groomed.  The highlight of the skiing was Tower Falls, a huge waterfall that was completely enclosed in ice - we could see the water falling behind the ice and could hear the muted roar.  We saw alot of elk and bison in the park, and lots of antelope everywhere.  

Chico Hot Springs is sweet - the perfect blend of Montana rustic with no haughty attitude and high quality food in the restaurant.  It felt great to soak in the natural hot springs after skiing.  They have a greenhouse heated by the springs that has an avocado tree and lemon tree in it.  I need to figure out how to grow me an avocado tree in Montana.