Montana Trip

     We did a loop through Yellowstone on our way to Montana.

     Explored the "Lewis and Clark" caverns. Interesting trivia note: Neither Lewis nor Clark discovered the cavern. The cavern was first discovered by non-Native Americans in 1882 by two people from Whitehall, Montana, Charles Brooke and Mexican John. The government named the cavern Lewis and Clark. The hike between the parking lot and the cavern was just under a mile each way and uphill (just one way). The cavern tour was a really neat experience. Our tour guide narration throughout the tour was full of the history, facts, statistics, and some pretty good humor too. Stan hung out with Sargent and enjoyed a little nap.

     The museum in Bozeman featured Dinosaur bones discovered throughout Montana, and a visiting exhibit of the Villas of Oplontis (near Pompeii). Both featured areas of the museum were pretty cool, and the art just beautiful. We also took in the planetarium that was so very relaxing that any longer would have turned into nap time.

     In Virginia City Don and Josh got to revisit the family history found in Nevada City as this was Mary’s first visit. We do enjoy the family history and learn new things about the past each time. We had a family photo taken in the spirit of the Wild West, and took in a play at the theater.

     Around the Cabin, Josh helped Uncle Stan with some yard work, we all got to see a few deer, and take in some breathtaking views from up on Todd Mountain.

     Throughout our travels from place to place we got to experience freeways in Idaho with posted speed limits of 80 mile per hour. Don enjoyed a nice glass of Scotch. Drove by the restored house that Grandpa David, Aunt Daryl, and Uncle Buck grew up in. Visited an historic church that is home to a cross that our first president worship to. Saw a bridge for sale (too funny, huh?). Past by an arch of antlers, and crossed the Snake River.

     On our way back to California, we passed through Yellowstone Park to then continue past The Grand Tetons.