Madison Valley

If you enter the Madison Valley from West Yellowstone, then you will likely be greated by a Bald Eagel. I believe this nest came down in 2007, unfortunately. For three years we have enjoyed seeing the eagle chicks.

The Madison area is all about bison.

You might even find yourself in a bison jam or two.

They will even be near the geyser fields.

You will also find a large number of elk in the open spaces.

Look along the river banks for swans and geese.

More than anywhere else you are reminded that you are inside an active volcano. These are the outside walls of the caldera on the west side of the park.

Yet, the Madison River flows gracefully through the area. Fisherman wade into the cold streams for great fishing.

Oh, and be prepared for changing weather! It was late May and 46 degrees outside (and snowing). We arrived the first week in June one year and West Yellowstone had only been receiving flights for one day because of the snow.

We have frequently stayed in West Yellowstone motels, and it was always a pleasure to have this scenery being the first and last thing that you see each day. Absolutely amazing!