Should we as Americans (and especially those of us responsible for educating today's youth) be concerned that it requires multiple signs and fences to keep people from stepping into an active steaming geyser?

Well, we've done it. 3 National Parks, 13 Days. 2,400 Miles. 5 Showers. After a few days of unpacking, doing laundry and dishes, airing out tents and sleeping bags, etc. it feels like we are home. Doug is doing a fantastic job chronicling our trip here, so take a look if you are interested. I still feel very fortunate that we had time (and the benefit of a relatively fuel efficient car) to explore some of the most beautiful parts of our country. While planning, we were a little disappointed that we planned the trip so early in a year with such heavy snowfall, as we weren't able to access all the places we wanted to see. But we were thoroughly rewarded with some early season perks, such as pleasant weather, an astounding display of wildflowers, and waterfalls that would knock your socks off. Doug compares my awe of waterfalls like a child's love of unicorns or rainbows. And it's probably a fair comparison. I will add a video from one of my favorite hikes, to Osprey Falls in Yellowstone. For a comparable effect of the power of this waterfall, place your computer on the bathroom counter plugged into some large speakers, and aim your shower head (cold water of course) on your face as you watch this.