Monday, July 02, 2007

July 2 - Thermopolis Hot Springs

Thermopolis, Wyoming is famous for it's hot mineral springs. They have several resorts and spas where you can soak in the hot soothing (smelly) water. In fact The Wyoming Bath House is state run and you can soak there for free! We didn't take the time.

The minerals in the water form travertine formations that are interesting. The first photo is of a mound made by standing a pipe vertically and letting the mineral water flow out the top. The minerals build and build until you have an interesting and quite pretty mound. The second photo is of the terraces that have formed naturally were the water seeps from the hillside. The springs are on the bank of the Big Horn River, which is the same as the Wind River but changes names at the mouth of the Wind River Gorge.



6 comments:

Kailana said...

That is a very cool looking structure! I think hot springs at the beginning of the trip might be too soon, you might be looking for them at the end, though!

Alyson said...

How long does it take for those things to form?

hellomelissa said...

i remember happening upon hot springs while swimming in a wyoming creek. what a treat!

ReveryWings said...

From what I understand Al, it takes several days or more. The minerls have to amlqyyo bit by tiny bit.

Booklogged said...

It's so fun to read your comments. I thought I would be blogging more on the drive, but I am either too interested in the scenery or asleep.

Alyson said...

Booklogged, it's about time you at least commented!! I expected more blog posts as well. I check multiple times a day, but I understand that there isn't more. I guess that means you're enjoying yourself.