The Petrified Tree. Petrified trees in the park are evidence of its volcanic history. Trees buried by volcanic ash slowly had their organic structure replaced by minerals. These tree trunks were literally turned to stone. The petrified tree pictured here was placed behind the fence to protect it from vandals and collectors. Two other petrified trees that were nearby were totally removed one piece at a time by thoughtless visitors in the past. Anatomically, this trunk is indistinguishable from the present-day redwoods in California; however, no redwoods exist within Yellowstone today. 50 million years ago, boom, and they were gone.
Andra and I have moved along to Mt. Washburn. We've driven up a dirt road to take a few pictures from the Northern trailhead.
That building in the far off distance is at the peak of Mt. Washburn. Of course, we decided to hike up from the opposite side the next day. The trail approaching from the other side is significantly steeper but more scenic.