We planned on a short walk and getting a cancel stamp at Norris because the weather was “supposed” to be bad. Also, John had to climb that hill to get back from the White-faced Ibis photographs on his off day.

There are a series of lakes across the middle of Yellowstone, near the Norris-Canyon Road that cuts through the middle. The lakes are known for having birds – Eagles, Grebes, Swans, and more. Wolf Lake is completely closed off for bird nesting. Cascades Lake, Grebe Lake, and Ice Lake are, at least, partly accessible. Ice Lake is the only one that is a short hike.

The western edge of Ice Lake and trails are not restricted.

Apparently, there is a $5,000 fine to enforce the privacy of those nesting birds.

The first thing we saw were some of the weirdest water fowl catching fish.

It turns out that Ice Lake has three back country camping sites. One was occupied with fishermen.

John thought he saw some swans across the water. When we got closer, Kate went out on a log and thought they were snow banks. John thought snow banks do not have beaks … usually.

There were two Trumpeter Swans sitting on the bank. We do not know if they are nesting or just resting.

Similar to the White-faced Ibis, Kate and John tip-toed around the swans looking for a closer and better angle. Periodically, the swans gave them the stink-eye and flapped their wings. Swans are massive, but a lot less scary than a Grizzly Bear.

On the opposite side, only one swan was visible above the grass line. This was the closest that it was possible to get without boots or hip waders. Park rules require staying, at least, 75 feet from all wild life; 300 feet from Bears and Wolves. These swans were about 100 feet away, so John could not get much closer.

If you are wondering why you have not been invited to Yellowstone, it is because we have no room to stuff you anywhere. See?