We then drove from Cody to the East Entrance which was a beautiful surprise. The towering rock walls reminded us of the Colorado River area. My photos don't do this area justice, but Mom and I decided it is the second most beautiful entrance to Yellowstone.
Daylight was fading fast, so we drove on to Moran to keep our reservation at the Togwotee Mountain Lodge. LIttle did we know what a strange experience awaited us. Road construction delayed our arrival until after dark, around 7PM. Our reservation was confirmed and prepaid, but the place was closed up tight when we got there. The office was closed. The gift shop was closed. The restaurant and saloon were closed. There was not another living soul in sight. But it was late and we were tired, so when we found a note on the door with room keys, we thankfully climbed the stairs with our luggage to our room.
But let me tell you, it was strange. In this large, 2-story hotel, we were the only occupants. We never saw another living person that evening nor the next morning. We slept very little, expecting Jack Nicholson to come walking down the hall at any minute. Had we seen the word "redrum" on the mirror, we would have left without hesitation! (Sorry, no photos. It never crossed my mind.)
