Last year we traveled through Wyoming and Jessie is still recovering from the trauma. Ask her about Casper and get ready. Last summer we stayed in Casper's KOA which was dreadful, and the drive in and out was blah. We were determined to avoid that part of the state at all costs.

We hadn't driven the northern part of the state before so we were happily surprised by how much prettier it was. Check out the drive out of the Bighorn National Forest...

This brought us to Thermopolis. The night before we stayed in Buffalo, WY, but we had originally planned to stop in Thermopolis. The unexpected early stop was good because we were able to see the beautiful mountain drive in the daytime but also stop and visit the World's Largest Mineral Hot Spring.

This vent was built just over 100 years ago. In the sign you can see a photo of what it looked like before it was completely covered in minerals.

It was a hot day, so Sarah Michael and Tessa ran through some sprinklers.

Water from the Big Horn Hot Springs gurgles up from the ground at 135º at a rate of 3,600,000 gallons per day.

You can't walk directly on the mineral bed, please stay on the path.

There are two water parks at the hot springs, plus a state-operated bath house that offers free soaks. How can you turn that down? It was a hot day, so the girls had no problem saying no to sitting in 103º water. I, on the other hand, was going to at least give it a try. This trip is about experiences!

I was surprised how the water didn't feel super hot. They make a big deal that the water is hot and therefore you're limited to a 20 minute soak, but I didn't think it was uncomfortable in any way. I got out after about 15 minutes only because I knew the girls were anxious to get back on the road.

And the road out of Thermopolis was stunning too.