Jackson, WY to Vernal, UT

We did spend 3 days at Jackson Hole, WY. While this is a beautiful place, (somewhat reminiscent of Ketchum, ID) it is really a tourist trap. There are more Galleries than anywhere else I have been. Prices for basics (except fuel) is about 40% higher on average than what we are used to in the Seattle area: [a bag of (3) organic romaine hearts was $8.99 at the grocery].

When we left Yellowstone we had seen every native animal except moose. But once we reached Grand Teton National rec area we were not disappointed (except no racks on these guys).

We completed our first science project which entailed building an aquifer with layers of clay, fine sand, coarse sand, and pea gravel. Then we "drilled a well" with a pencil wrapped in a nylon stocking, removed the pencil, filled the aquifer with water, and drew water out of our well with an eye dropper. Next we polluted the aquifer with red food coloring and watched it seep through the layers and eventually contaminate our well as we continued ot draw water out of the aquifer. This was actually a very cool project!

After school we rode the tram to the top of Jackson Hole ski area. The views were good and the day was spectacular.

From Jackson we head South on highway 191. This is a great 2-laner with very little traffic and incredible scenery. The fall colors are out in full splendor. Antelope are everywhere!

We make good time through the Flaming Gorge area on to Vernal, UT.

Vernal is the Dinosaur capital of the world. There have been more dinosaur remains found here than anywhere else. We spent several hours today at the Utah state museum on dinosaurs where the kids became "Junior Scientists" and earned a badge.

Ranger Rick at the Museum suggested a drive up to a historic site that has petroglyphs from sometime between 1 A.D. - 1,200 A.D.

Tomorrow we head for Arches National Park and the Moab area. Weather looks great for the foreseeable future.

Hope all is well with everyone.

The Paton's