Discovering Yellowstone National Park For The First Time [GALLERY]

I think it was an old slogan for Heinz Ketchup or something like that, where I first remember hearing ‘Good Things Come to Those who Wait.’ Well, if that truly is the case, both Yellowstone National Park and I have benefited tremendously from my most recent trip. That’s because both of us have waited it out patiently for the last 42 years for me to make my first foray into “Geyserland.” Old Faithful will never be the same.  

I’m sure many of you are astonished by this admonition. What makes it even more unbelievable is that I have lived in Wyoming nearly my entire life…even spending considerable time in the northwest corner of our great state, and I still hadn’t made the grand trek until now.

What can I say? I’m constantly late (as I’m sure my wife will willingly attest to). I didn’t learn how to blow bubble gum until I was 12. I didn’t hit puberty until my junior year of high school, and I’m pretty sure that was the same year I lost my last baby tooth. I was one of the last people I know to succumb to the cellular phone…or Facebook, etc., and the list goes on and on. Be comforted that I think it’s finally time that I “grew up.”

The point is however, that I made it, and it was a spectacular Labor Day weekend! Let me just say that Yellowstone National Park is nothing short of magnificent, and truly breathtaking. It’s alive in so many ways, and comes with several different ecosystems, environments, and terrains. It’s teaming with healthy wildlife. Although I would miss out on sightings of a moose, a bear, and a wolf; I did get to see all kinds of birds, bighorn sheep, bison, elk, deer, dogs, squirrels, and another first for me…a coyote. Could you spot her in that picture?

And despite my habitual lateness, I haven’t wasted too much time in learning and reading more about this ancient caldera and all of its wonders. I would strongly urge you to do the same…no matter how long it takes. Don’t stop at Yellowstone, either. Find out about all the wonders that call Wyoming home. Take a tour. I promise you’ll discover a whole new state of mind.

Please check out my pictures “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.” I humbly credit my lovely wife for taking most of the good ones.