Everyone should take the opportunity to go to YellowstoneNationalPark  , it is a must include on anyone’s Bucket List. It is the GrandDaddy of all zoos (thankfully no fences or cages), the most spectacular views, and the most fascinating geological formations all in one place. This is not a fly in and rent a car  type of vacation. This is a good old fashioned, squeakin’ styrofoam Americana car vacation. I know what you are thinking, “Are you kidding me, 18 hours in the car…..possibly with kids? No way!” Yellowstone is the destination but the journey getting there is also filled with beautiful scenery.

Being in the great outdoors is as essential to my survival as breathing. Yellowstone is as close as you can get sans backcountry trails when it comes to experiencing the true wilderness. Every turn has a new vista or possible wildlife siting. Yellowstone is meant to be experienced so visit the geyser basins, sulfur springs, lakes, and turnouts. Come prepared to hike down to see incredible waterfalls or possibly a back country trail to view wildflower meadows only few have ventured to view.

This is not your Momma’s drive through wildlife sanctuary, the ones quite frequently featured on America’s Funniest  Home Videos.   This is  the real deal. There will be no guide to remind you to “keep your hands and feet inside at all times as the animals are wild and will bite”, just respect their personal space and they should pay you no mind.

This image of Bison or tatankas , was photographed in one of the most beautiful places in Yellowstone, Hayden Valley. The bison look so up close and personal, but remember the number one rule; let’s all say it together now “keep your hands and feet inside…….” I cheat with a BIG A%* lens! If you would like to see more art images from Yellowstone, check out heplerphoto.com  .