A Day Too Soon

Today's Mileage:  419
Loop Mileage:  5853
Quest Total:  11348
State Total:  27
Current Location:  Cody, Wyoming

Started off south today in much better conditions.  In fact with the sun shining, blue skies,  and warming temperatures the Bitterroots were a great sight.  Naturally, things didn't stay this way. When I turned east and headed for the Tetons, it looked like more of the same from yesterday.  Not wanting to let me down, the weather did get colder, wetter, and then snowed as I headed over the summit.  According to local weather reporters, temps are 20 to 30 degrees below normal.  Made it into Jackson hole, WY. and there appeared to be plenty of people who weren't expecting the cold as they walked around shivering in t-shirts.  Jackson Hole is an interesting looking town, but definitely there for the tourist trade.  Went and rode thru Teton National park.  Unfortunately, clouds were hiding the tops, but the mountains are still pretty impressive. The gal at the gate said although it was a little cold, it was better than yesterday when they had blizzard conditions and the park was closed.  Also told me that if i stayed around it would be nice tomorrow.  From there I headed up to Yellowstone National Park.  I realize that just driving thru both of these parks in one day, doesn't do them justice, but with the weather, I really didn't see too many other people getting out of their cars except to take pictures.  When i checked in at the gate, the attendent told me that even though the weather wasn't being cooperatve, if i stayed around, it would be better tomorrow.  Naturally, hearing this twice, made me feel much better.  Climbed up over the summit in Yellowstone and got snowed on.  The picture of the bike is just prior to the continental divide.  After turning east out of the park, climbing over another summit and getting snowed on again, I headed for Cody.  I'm not sure what this area east of Yellowstone is called, but it was really very pretty.  It was the best riding of the day.  Of course I could be prejudiced, because it was dry and warmer at the lower altitude.