Yellowstone - have you been in 2002?
 

We have planned a trip to Yellowstone in early October.<BR><BR>2 questions -<BR>1) has anyone been this year and can report on the impact of the drought on waterfalls and rafting<BR><BR>2) Anyone know a good company and place for horseback riding and rafting/floating<BR><BR>If the the drought has diminished the beauty too much we might postpone?<BR>Thanks

The waterfalls are fine, full of water in yellowstone. The only place drought was mentioned was in the tetons- the Snake is low but they can still raft, the jackson Lake is too low for boating. <BR>Check the National park lodges for horseback riding, they definitely have it up at Roosevelt and Mammoth.

Draught is being mentioned all over the west. All bodies of water are a bit low but still good for recreation. As of late May, the waterfalls in Yellowstone were fine, but I don't know if they will hold out until late fall.

Last year, at the end of August, Yellowstone had to impose a strict, absolutely NO campfires policy. Even in the fire rings in the developed campgrounds. They may have to do the same this year & the timeframe will purely depend on conditions.<BR><BR>So, maybe no roasted marshmallows or s'mores, but still lots of beauty!

PS - Doug,<BR><BR>There is no rafting in Yellowstone Park itself. There is horseback riding, but riding will probably be discontinued by October. Most ranger-led activities end mid-Sept as do boat rentals, riding, etc. inside the park.