Sunday 7-13

We got up early and drove north to the Mammoth area of the park. First we went to the Boiling River for a swim at a secret spot (directions given to us on a slip of paper by a ranger) where the very hot spring water mixes with cold river water. You can wade through the icy river to pools where the hot spring water pours in, and find warm or hot spots to sit. It was really neat. 

Then we went into Mammoth Hot Springs "village" where elk were wandering through and lounging on the green without a care for the people or cars. 

After lunch in the restaurant, the boys got their Yellowstone junior ranger badges. We walked around the Mammoth Hot Springs boardwalks to see more springs and thermal features. 

Karl was so tired he fell asleep in the car on the way back to our campground. 

Jay busy reading...