A little more than a week ago employees of local
businesses felt like Maytag repairmen. I swear that I heard an echo when I entered
a store and said “Hi” to a clerk. A couple of feet of snow later, things are
hoppin’ in the caldera. I believe I saw the Lodgepoles sway from a collective
sigh of relief as merchants were suddenly inundated with snowmobile
enthusiasts.
Crowds of sleds surround gas pumps in clusters. Adults
and kids alike are completely outfitted in the latest snowmobile apparel. The
inside of the stores looks more like a Star Wars convention where everyone
decided to wear their Darth Vader costume. Stocking up on munchies, the
procession returns to the pumps. Firing up the sleds, their pending excursion
is confirmed and off they go in single file. Their adventure is on.
What must be acknowledged is their joy as they tour the Island
Park Caldera that is blanketed in white. For many, this is an annual
opportunity, for some it is a weekly event and for others it is a once in a
lifetime experience. It is difficult to tell from their enthusiasm which
visitors cherish the experience more.
Island Park offers much of the scenery available in
Yellowstone Park without the heavy hand of the Park Service. It is truly a
blessing to have this corner of Yellowstone Country available to tour on
snowmobiles. Residents of the caldera enjoy hosting visitors who appreciate
what we have been blessed with.
Remember to be safe while operating your machines. Watch
out for traffic when crossing roads. Don’t allow your speed to exceed your
control of the sled. We want you to return home safely, with great memories of
your visit.
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