Sunday, July 12, 2009 - Thermopolis, WY, the long way around

First thing in the morning we all headed across town from the campground to the Hobo Pool at the hot springs in Saratoga. Since the campground is designed for "self-contained RVs" only, we had overlooked the fact that we haven't yet been using all the self-c0ntained aspects of the camper and were not ready to learn quickly.

But Saratoga, Wyoming, has a good deal for travelers in need of a place to relax, shower, or use the other usual facilities. Behind the Hobo Pool (the hot springs made into a sort of rustic "hot tub" (cement sides, but with the algae and sand on the bottom still)) are men and women's simple shower, sink, and toilet facilities. All of this is free and there are quite a few folks from all over taking advantage of the pool and the rest.

The route from Rawlins to Thermopolis can be done at least two ways; through Lander and/or Riverton, or through Casper and Shoshoni. We opted for the shorter route through Riverton. More on that decision later!

The terrain north of Rawlins is rather desolate in many ways. Although it has its own beauty, many might think the endless rolling red dirt hills (with larger hills in the distance) covered by sparse vegetation (mostly sagebrush) is too hot and lonely.

But we discovered a little "oasis" in all of this sameness.

July 11, 2009, Saturday - Laramie, Snowy Range

In the morning we breakfasted in Shair's Restuarant. Afterward we visited Aunt Jean Linde, Ethan's oldest living relative. She is ninety something. Aunt Jean told Kathy some stories. Like way her great aunt Florence McKillip going up to Alaska.

Then we visited Wyoming's Territorial Prison and broom factory.

Then we drove to and through the Snowy Range. Kathy was in fine form spotting prong horn deer. We visited summit tour, Lake Marie and the field with the trout stream. A lot of snow remains on the ground.

Then on to Saratoga where we camped at Deer Haven camp ground.

We spent the evening at the free Hobo hot springs pool.