Exploring the Road Along the Base of the Chalk CLiffs & then Secret Valley

Some of you might recall the discussion a few months ago about the old road that Superintendent P.W. Norris constructed along the base of the Chalk Cliffs in the Gibbon River Canyon back in 1878. We discussed walking along the base of the cliffs from the Canyon Creek area below Gibbon Falls and the Gibbon Falls Picnic Area for 2, possibly 2.5 miles, down to the Tuff Cliffs Picnic Area.

This would be a casual walk, concentrated on a cluster of subjects, including any historical evidence of what had to be one of the earliest roads in Yellowstone National Park, the geology of the cliffs and the landslides that have descended them, late blooming wildflowers, and any wildlife we come across. We will leave some vehicles at the Tuff Cliffs Picnic Area to provide transportation back up the canyon to the Gibbon Falls Picnic Area. From there, we will take all the vehicles up the road adjacent to GIbbon Falls, and park either in the Gibbon Falls parking lot or the Iron Springs Picnic Area parking lot.

Our second walk of the day will be a short stroll from the new bridge over the Gibbon River upstream to where we will commence an off-trail wander up Secret Valley. Late summer and autumn is the best time to explore this area. Hopefully, much of the terrain that is wet and spongy in places in June, July, and early August should be much drier. This will be an "in and out" foray up Secret Valley Creek about a mile or so to the vicinity of Secret Valley Hot Springs. We visited this area twice back in the 2005-2007 timeframe, both times in early or mid-summer, and we had to do some swamp dodging, rock hopping, and log walking.

I would recommend bringing hiking poles and waterproof boots, just to play it safe. With the presence of Secret Valley Creek and the associated hot springs, there is always the possibility of wet spots. As usual, we should all be carrying easily accessed bear spray and the usual assortment of sun protection mechanisms, like a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Also, bring binoculars, camera, lunch, and water. For the sake of comfort if we take an extended break up Secret Valley, bringing a lightweight camp chair or Crazy Creek chair is advised.

For new Members and first-timers, be aware that the posted meet time and meet place is deliberately BOGUS. If you RSVP "Yes", and the Organizer has your cell phone number, he or she will provide the accurate meet place and meet time information. The Organizer will provide you with their cell phone number, so you both have a means of contacting each other if necessary on the morning of the Meetup.

Looking ahead for the next 2 or 3 weekends after September 13-14, we will be concentrating on fall colors and various wildlife species migrations. That includes everything from feathered critters, like sandhill cranes and bald eagles to small mammals like badgers and coyotes, and the full array of large mammals (charismatic megafauna), including bears, bison, elk, and wolves. Weather can be a big factor if we get a blast of the cold/wet variety.

Those of us with serious football addictions rely heavily on our DVR's and the ability to record notable games and watch them in the evening.

See you Sunday!

Ballpark