Itinerary
Please note: Alternating trips run in the opposite direction, starting in Bozeman and ending in Jackson.
Day 1: Jackson, Wyoming
Encircled by the Teton, Gros Ventre and Snake River mountain ranges, Jackson is a ranch town turned luxury outpost that refuses to give up its dungaree and work glove vibe, making for fascinating photo opportunities the moment you arrive. Western pride abounds in Jackson, from the saddle-seat bar stools at the Silver Dollar Cowboy Bar to the elk antler arches at each corner of the town square. With a local ski hill located a few blocks south of the town square and rodeo grounds nearby, it’s typical to see mountain athletes alongside working cowboys. Jackson is also the southern gateway to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, with Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks to the north and vast wilderness areas close by.
Within these realms live top predators like grizzly bears and wolves, and plenty of herbivores, some of which occasionally wander through the town streets. Despite its growing opulence, Jackson’s a hearty place, emblematic of the Old West and with a deep reverence for all things wild. from the moment you arrive. If time allows, explore the town with a stroll on its iconic wooden boardwalks, camera in hand, and get ready for the exciting trip ahead.
At this evening’s welcome dinner, meet your Photo Expedition Leader who will offer an overview about the adventure ahead. A professional photographer skilled at capturing high-quality wildlife and landscape images, your guide is also an expert naturalist. Their understanding of the intricacies of this region will be essential to getting the images you covet.
Day 2: Grand Teton National Park—Scenic Float Trip
Nothing quite prepares you for the drama of the Tetons that rear up in a row of angular peaks from the valley floor. Protected forever in one of America’s most impressive national parks, the Tetons are emblems of the West’s grandeur, and the park’s wildlife is as magnificent as its mountains. Today’s focus is on wildlife photography as we look for elk, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, bison and eagles. This afternoon, water level permitting, float the placid Snake River beneath the Tetons’ jagged summits. In a shallow raft, we can capture moose, beavers, osprey, or even a black bear at eye level, for strong compositions. We’ll also explore Mormon Row where we capture the iconic T.A. Moulton Barn backed by the majestic Tetons—a quintessential shot for any western portfolio. The day concludes with golden light as we shoot the rugged landscape while the sun sets behind the iconic range.
Day 3: Grand Teton National Park—Alpine Exploration
Rise early for daybreak on the Tetons and capture the sunrise alpenglow. (Note: sunrise and sunset illuminate this grand landscape in dramatic and shifting light, depending on atmospheric conditions, and we have multiple early morning and evening shooting sessions to catch the poetic light as it transforms with vibrant colors.) Today is devoted to capturing mountain landscapes and images, and we focus on depth of field and proper exposure to craft images that tell the story of this landscape. As we travel to some of the park’s most photogenic areas, we’ll look for elk, moose, eagles, bears and possibly even elusive wolves. After lunch we’ll ride the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram up Rendezvous Peak, elevation 10,455 feet. As we rise 4,139 vertical feet, the grand scope of this unique mountain range comes into focus. Without foothills to ease the climb, the Tetons strike high in the sky and create their own unique ecosystem. From the tram dock we have the option of short and longer hikes to explore the mountaintop, with plenty of time for alpine photography. We’ll ride the tram back down to the base for another sunset shooting session on our way to historic Jackson Lake Lodge, where we spend the night in full view of the peaks and often see moose along the marshy shoreline.
Day 4: Oxbow Bend / Yellowstone National Park—Old Faithful
For more golden hour light shooting, we rise early in search of moose at the willow-covered bottomlands of Oxbow Bend east of Jackson Lake. Made famous by Ansel Adams in a 1942 shot of the Snake River in the foreground and Mount Moran in the background, this special spot features dramatic leading lines for artistic images. You may also capture shots of river otter, beaver, muskrat, osprey and bald eagles.
We continue to Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, established in 1872, for our first glimpses of the geothermal features that dot the landscape. Pack your wide-angle lens to capture towering natural geysers. From vast landscapes to intricate crystal formations in geothermal crusts, we’ll experiment with wide compositions as well as macro photography to capture the vibrant colors of the mineral-laden pools. We also learn about fire ecology as we drive through recovering areas once ravaged by wildfires, with photo opportunities to capture the contrast between vibrant new growth and dead and blackened snags. At Old Faithful, your Photo Expedition Leader provides expert guidance and insights into geothermal activity. Beyond the famous geyser, the Firehole River Basin boasts the highest density of geothermal features on Earth, offering stunning shots of geysers, hot springs, mud pots and fumaroles. The dynamic beauty of these geyser basins inspired early explorers and conservationists like Teddy Roosevelt.
Day 5: Hayden Valley / Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone / Lamar Valley / Gardiner
More of the park lies ahead, including Hayden Valley, a picturesque grazing area for large herds of bison and elk. Yellowstone is home to some 4,000 bison, the largest land mammals in North America, which we expect to photograph today. Bighorn sheep may be on display near Mount Washburn, and we may also spot coyotes and bald eagles. A stop at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where Yellowstone Falls pours off a sheer cliff into a thousand-foot-deep gorge, offers the park’s most inspiring vista and an opportunity to experiment with slower shutter speeds to soften the raging water. This afternoon, continue to the Lamar Valley in the park’s remote northeast corner. As the sun starts to dip, we'll take spotting scopes on a search for bears and wolves. Though Yellowstone's famous gray wolves are elusive and almost always seen at a substantial distance, the Lamar Valley is the best place in North America to find and photograph them. We have the added advantage of working closely with wolf researchers in the park, who help us track them. Tonight, we stay just outside the park's northern boundary in Gardiner, Montana, which lies along the Yellowstone River.
Day 6: Lamar Valley Wildlife Safari
Early this morning, set out in search of wolves, grizzly bears and large herds of elk and bison in the broad meadows of the Lamar Valley. Wolves were reintroduced here to their native ecosystem amid much controversy in the 1990s. After a 70-year absence following their government-sanctioned eradication, wolves have again flourished, supported by bountiful prey. In addition, their predatory presence has helped to right imbalances in the ecosystem. In addition to using your telephoto lens, you’ll learn about digiscoping. Our Photo Expedition Leaders carry high-powered spotting scopes on board our vehicles, and if we are fortunate to spy wolves, we'll have the opportunity to obtain images and video using the scope’s magnification and your smartphone.
This afternoon, we head to Cooke City to visit the Hartman Gallery, with a slide presentation by renowned Yellowstone resident Dan Hartman. An award-winning wildlife photographer and videographer whose work has been featured in National Geographic and the BBC, Dan will share insights about wolves and wildlife photography that will inspire your visual storytelling and unlock your creative potential. We also see dramatic mountain vistas as we ascend the famous Beartooth Scenic Byway to the top of region’s mountainous plateau. Charles Kuralt called it the “most spectacular road in America,” and it’s easy to concur: high alpine lakes sparkle in the waning light and surrounded by an intensely rugged granite. In this golden light hour, we stop for photo opportunities to capture the massive western landscape. Early this evening, we return to the Northern Range for more wolf tracking, knowing our chances to see and photograph them are best at dawn and dusk.
Day 7: Lamar Valley / Mammoth Hot Springs / Paradise Valley / Bozeman
One last quest for wolf and bear viewing awaits in the Lamar Valley this morning. Traveling back toward the northern reaches of the park, we may take a short hike to photograph an abandoned wolf or bear den before continuing to Mammoth Hot Springs. Here, thermal water spills over travertine terraces that have been described as a “cave turned inside out,” and heat-loving organisms called thermophiles add distinct colors to the mineral-laden formations. The textures and moving water create stunning abstract images, and the leading lines along the geothermal pool edges offer interesting framing. Push yourself creatively here as we incorporate the photography lessons from the entire trip. A resident elk herd in Mammoth is prevalent, and unique shots that contrast nature and man, like the ungulates against a crowded parking lot, for example, speak to the story of Yellowstone today. We then follow the Yellowstone River north through scenic Paradise Valley, with views of the Absaroka and the Gallatin ranges en route. Reaching Bozeman, we recount our adventures over a farewell dinner this evening.
Day 8: Bozeman / Depart
Although you’re leaving the greater Yellowstone ecosystem today, you’re bringing part of it with you. Anticipate the enjoyment of reviewing, editing and sharing your images as our safari concludes. Those departing today will be transferred to the airport. Travelers wishing to spend extra time in Bozeman will have the remainder of the day free to explore this historic Old West/New West town. The rapidly growing city boasts 40 individual properties on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is also home to Montana State University. A Bozeman highlight is the Museum of the Rockies, a Smithsonian Affiliate and repository for state and federal dinosaur fossils, including the mounted Montana's T. rex skeleton. A transfer is included to the airport to meet your departing flight.
Natural Habitat Adventures is an authorized permittee of Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks.
Day 1: Jackson, Wyoming
Encircled by the Teton, Gros Ventre and Snake River mountain ranges, Jackson is a ranch town turned luxury outpost that refuses to give up its dungaree and work glove vibe, making for fascinating photo opportunities the moment you arrive. Western pride abounds in Jackson, from the saddle-seat bar stools at the Silver Dollar Cowboy Bar to the elk antler arches at each corner of the town square. With a local ski hill located a few blocks south of the town square and rodeo grounds nearby, it’s typical to see mountain athletes alongside working cowboys. Jackson is also the southern gateway to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, with Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks to the north and vast wilderness areas close by.
Within these realms live top predators like grizzly bears and wolves, and plenty of herbivores, some of which occasionally wander through the town streets. Despite its growing opulence, Jackson’s a hearty place, emblematic of the Old West and with a deep reverence for all things wild. from the moment you arrive. If time allows, explore the town with a stroll on its iconic wooden boardwalks, camera in hand, and get ready for the exciting trip ahead.
At this evening’s welcome dinner, meet your Photo Expedition Leader who will offer an overview about the adventure ahead. A professional photographer skilled at capturing high-quality wildlife and landscape images, your guide is also an expert naturalist. Their understanding of the intricacies of this region will be essential to getting the images you covet.
Day 2: Grand Teton National Park—Scenic Float Trip
Nothing quite prepares you for the drama of the Tetons that rear up in a row of angular peaks from the valley floor. Protected forever in one of America’s most impressive national parks, the Tetons are emblems of the West’s grandeur, and the park’s wildlife is as magnificent as its mountains. Today’s focus is on wildlife photography as we look for elk, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, bison and eagles. This afternoon, water level permitting, float the placid Snake River beneath the Tetons’ jagged summits. In a shallow raft, we can capture moose, beavers, osprey, or even a black bear at eye level, for strong compositions. We’ll also explore Mormon Row where we capture the iconic T.A. Moulton Barn backed by the majestic Tetons—a quintessential shot for any western portfolio. The day concludes with golden light as we shoot the rugged landscape while the sun sets behind the iconic range.
Day 3: Grand Teton National Park—Alpine Exploration
Rise early for daybreak on the Tetons and capture the sunrise alpenglow. (Note: sunrise and sunset illuminate this grand landscape in dramatic and shifting light, depending on atmospheric conditions, and we have multiple early morning and evening shooting sessions to catch the poetic light as it transforms with vibrant colors.) Today is devoted to capturing mountain landscapes and images, and we focus on depth of field and proper exposure to craft images that tell the story of this landscape. As we travel to some of the park’s most photogenic areas, we’ll look for elk, moose, eagles, bears and possibly even elusive wolves. After lunch we’ll ride the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram up Rendezvous Peak, elevation 10,455 feet. As we rise 4,139 vertical feet, the grand scope of this unique mountain range comes into focus. Without foothills to ease the climb, the Tetons strike high in the sky and create their own unique ecosystem. From the tram dock we have the option of short and longer hikes to explore the mountaintop, with plenty of time for alpine photography. We’ll ride the tram back down to the base for another sunset shooting session on our way to historic Jackson Lake Lodge, where we spend the night in full view of the peaks and often see moose along the marshy shoreline.
Day 4: Oxbow Bend / Yellowstone National Park—Old Faithful
For more golden hour light shooting, we rise early in search of moose at the willow-covered bottomlands of Oxbow Bend east of Jackson Lake. Made famous by Ansel Adams in a 1942 shot of the Snake River in the foreground and Mount Moran in the background, this special spot features dramatic leading lines for artistic images. You may also capture shots of river otter, beaver, muskrat, osprey and bald eagles.
We continue to Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, established in 1872, for our first glimpses of the geothermal features that dot the landscape. Pack your wide-angle lens to capture towering natural geysers. From vast landscapes to intricate crystal formations in geothermal crusts, we’ll experiment with wide compositions as well as macro photography to capture the vibrant colors of the mineral-laden pools. We also learn about fire ecology as we drive through recovering areas once ravaged by wildfires, with photo opportunities to capture the contrast between vibrant new growth and dead and blackened snags. At Old Faithful, your Photo Expedition Leader provides expert guidance and insights into geothermal activity. Beyond the famous geyser, the Firehole River Basin boasts the highest density of geothermal features on Earth, offering stunning shots of geysers, hot springs, mud pots and fumaroles. The dynamic beauty of these geyser basins inspired early explorers and conservationists like Teddy Roosevelt.
Day 5: Hayden Valley / Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone / Lamar Valley / Gardiner
More of the park lies ahead, including Hayden Valley, a picturesque grazing area for large herds of bison and elk. Yellowstone is home to some 4,000 bison, the largest land mammals in North America, which we expect to photograph today. Bighorn sheep may be on display near Mount Washburn, and we may also spot coyotes and bald eagles. A stop at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where Yellowstone Falls pours off a sheer cliff into a thousand-foot-deep gorge, offers the park’s most inspiring vista and an opportunity to experiment with slower shutter speeds to soften the raging water. This afternoon, continue to the Lamar Valley in the park’s remote northeast corner. As the sun starts to dip, we'll take spotting scopes on a search for bears and wolves. Though Yellowstone's famous gray wolves are elusive and almost always seen at a substantial distance, the Lamar Valley is the best place in North America to find and photograph them. We have the added advantage of working closely with wolf researchers in the park, who help us track them. Tonight, we stay just outside the park's northern boundary in Gardiner, Montana, which lies along the Yellowstone River.
Day 6: Lamar Valley Wildlife Safari
Early this morning, set out in search of wolves, grizzly bears and large herds of elk and bison in the broad meadows of the Lamar Valley. Wolves were reintroduced here to their native ecosystem amid much controversy in the 1990s. After a 70-year absence following their government-sanctioned eradication, wolves have again flourished, supported by bountiful prey. In addition, their predatory presence has helped to right imbalances in the ecosystem. In addition to using your telephoto lens, you’ll learn about digiscoping. Our Photo Expedition Leaders carry high-powered spotting scopes on board our vehicles, and if we are fortunate to spy wolves, we'll have the opportunity to obtain images and video using the scope’s magnification and your smartphone.
This afternoon, we head to Cooke City to visit the Hartman Gallery, with a slide presentation by renowned Yellowstone resident Dan Hartman. An award-winning wildlife photographer and videographer whose work has been featured in National Geographic and the BBC, Dan will share insights about wolves and wildlife photography that will inspire your visual storytelling and unlock your creative potential. We also see dramatic mountain vistas as we ascend the famous Beartooth Scenic Byway to the top of region’s mountainous plateau. Charles Kuralt called it the “most spectacular road in America,” and it’s easy to concur: high alpine lakes sparkle in the waning light and surrounded by an intensely rugged granite. In this golden light hour, we stop for photo opportunities to capture the massive western landscape. Early this evening, we return to the Northern Range for more wolf tracking, knowing our chances to see and photograph them are best at dawn and dusk.
Day 7: Lamar Valley / Mammoth Hot Springs / Paradise Valley / Bozeman
One last quest for wolf and bear viewing awaits in the Lamar Valley this morning. Traveling back toward the northern reaches of the park, we may take a short hike to photograph an abandoned wolf or bear den before continuing to Mammoth Hot Springs. Here, thermal water spills over travertine terraces that have been described as a “cave turned inside out,” and heat-loving organisms called thermophiles add distinct colors to the mineral-laden formations. The textures and moving water create stunning abstract images, and the leading lines along the geothermal pool edges offer interesting framing. Push yourself creatively here as we incorporate the photography lessons from the entire trip. A resident elk herd in Mammoth is prevalent, and unique shots that contrast nature and man, like the ungulates against a crowded parking lot, for example, speak to the story of Yellowstone today. We then follow the Yellowstone River north through scenic Paradise Valley, with views of the Absaroka and the Gallatin ranges en route. Reaching Bozeman, we recount our adventures over a farewell dinner this evening.
Day 8: Bozeman / Depart
Although you’re leaving the greater Yellowstone ecosystem today, you’re bringing part of it with you. Anticipate the enjoyment of reviewing, editing and sharing your images as our safari concludes. Those departing today will be transferred to the airport. Travelers wishing to spend extra time in Bozeman will have the remainder of the day free to explore this historic Old West/New West town. The rapidly growing city boasts 40 individual properties on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is also home to Montana State University. A Bozeman highlight is the Museum of the Rockies, a Smithsonian Affiliate and repository for state and federal dinosaur fossils, including the mounted Montana's T. rex skeleton. A transfer is included to the airport to meet your departing flight.
Physical Rating: Easy to Moderate
Natural Habitat Adventures is an authorized permittee of Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks.
