Lone bison near Pebble Creek. NPS PHOTO BY / JACOB W. FRANK
Yellowstone National Park in Winter
Snowshoeing: Discovering Yellowstone in Winter
Restoring Grizzly Habitat In The Northwest Hey Bear Partners With Vital Grounds Foundation
Winter Wildlife Guide
A seasonal look at Greater Yellowstone’s adaptive characters
Splitboarding to Yellowstone’s Mystic Falls
The Best Places to Eat Around Yellowstone National Park
Stargazing In Yellowstone Country
Bird Watching in Yellowstone
Quick
LEFT: Hunting fox, Hayden Valley
NPS PHOTO BY NEAL HERBERT
YELLOWSTONE AND GRAND TETON ENTRANCE FEES
VEHICLES
$35 per vehicle to visit each individual park, good for seven days.
MOTORCYCLES OR SNOWMOBILES
$30 for each park, good for seven days. Snowmobile entry limited to guided tours or permit holders.
INDIVIDUAL (FOOT/BICYCLE/SKI)
$20 per person for each park, good for seven days.
ANNUAL PASS
$70 for each park. When traveling by snowmobile, this pass admits the signer(s). When traveling by snow coach or shuttle, this pass admits a signer and up to three additional persons (16 and older) for a total of four people.
SENIOR PASS
$80 lifetime pass, or $20 annual pass, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62 or older.
ACCESS PASS
Free for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.
MILITARY ANNUAL PASS
Free annual pass available for active-duty military personnel and their dependents.
U.S. MILITARY, VETERANS AND GOLD STAR FAMILY MEMBERS
New in fall of 2020, the Interagency Annual Military Pass was expanded from covering current military to include veterans and Gold Star Families. This pass is free to those who qualify.
Due to COVID-19, park access and amenities may not be available at full capacity. Visit nps.gov/yell for timely updates.
EXPLORE: YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK APP
Unsure where to begin your visit to Yellowstone’s 2-million-plus-acre terrain? Unable to make it to the park yourself this season? No worries— you can now visit virtually via the Yellowstone National Park app.
The National Park Service’s Yellowstone app features live updates on the status of lodges, campgrounds, road conditions and even predictions for when the park’s famous geysers will erupt. The app also reminds you when you’re near the places, topics or tours you marked as “interested in” once you arrive. And if you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone this winter, the app provides critical updates on road conditions and closures.
Ready to share your Yellowstone photos with friends and family? The app lets you create a collage of your unique experience and plug in photos from your trip.
The search bar feature allows users to browse by services or sites, finding everything you will need to know at your fingertips. Download the app and explore your Yellowstone today! – Tucker Harris
Snowshoeing: DISCOVERING YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER
BY EDDY MURPHY
Two snowshoers traverse a trail in the Hellroaring area.
NPS PHOTO
Some winter adventurers go above the trees, into the big sky and glide through the powdery paradise of Lone Peak; some painstakingly contemplate the cardiovascular benefits of cross-country skiing on one of the area’s many groomed trails; and some of us delve into the blustery and glittering wilderness on snowshoes.
Some winter adventurers go above the trees, into the big sky and glide through the powdery paradise of Lone Peak; some painstakingly contemplate the cardiovascular benefits of cross-country skiing on one of the area’s many groomed trails; and some of us delve into the blustery and glittering wilderness on snowshoes.
Some winter adventurers go above the trees, into the big sky and glide through the powdery paradise of Lone Peak; some painstakingly contemplate the cardiovascular benefits of cross-country skiing on one of the area’s many groomed trails; and some of us delve into the blustery and glittering wilderness on snowshoes.
I’ve spent a lot of time in Yellowstone during the summer, working as a barista. After those seasons ended, I returned home to Tennessee’s bland, rainy winters, sinking into nostalgia when I couldn’t lace up my boots and gawk at mesmerizing vistas whenever I saw fit.
But I was going to be near the wonderland that stole my heart four summers ago, and I was not about to let some white fluffy stuff deter me from recreating in my new home.
for me to avoid my mom’s shabby sofa in Tennessee and instead live in Montana yearround, I was elated. I also felt uneasy, because I have never skied. I knew the couple inches of cursed snow that fell in Tennessee every year were nothing compared to what these skies promised. I knew Montana winter would make everything I knew of that season seem trivial and ridiculous.
I’ve spent a lot of time in Yellowstone during the summer, working as a barista. After those seasons ended, I returned home to Tennessee’s bland, rainy winters, sinking into nostalgia when I couldn’t lace up my boots and gawk at mesmerizing vistas whenever I saw fit. So, when the opportunity arose for me to avoid my mom’s shabby sofa in Tennessee and instead live in Montana yearround, I was elated. I also felt uneasy, because I have never skied. I knew the couple inches of cursed snow that fell in Tennessee every year were nothing compared to what these skies promised. I knew Montana winter would make everything I knew of that season seem trivial and ridiculous.
But I was going to be near the wonderland that stole my heart four summers ago, and I was not about to let some white fluffy stuff deter me from recreating in my new home.
But I was going to be near the wonderland that stole my heart four summers ago, and I was not about to let some white fluffy stuff deter me from recreating in my new home.
This winter, my first in Big Sky, I’ve spent many subzero mornings trying to extract my two-wheel-drive pickup from Crown Butte Drive’s ditches. When I first purchased snowshoes, I thought their alloy frames looked awkwardly shaped and odd.
This winter, my first in Big Sky, I’ve spent many subzero mornings trying to extract my two-wheel-drive pickup from Crown Butte Drive’s ditches. When I first purchased snowshoes, I thought their alloy frames looked awkwardly shaped and odd.
This winter, my first in Big Sky, I’ve spent many subzero mornings trying to extract my two-wheel-drive pickup from Crown Butte Drive’s ditches. When I first purchased snowshoes, I thought their alloy frames looked awkwardly shaped and odd.
THE LODGEPOLES WHISPERED, AND YELLOWSTONE BECAME
So, when the opportunity arose for me to avoid my mom’s shabby sofa in Tennessee and instead live in Montana yearround, I was elated. I also felt uneasy, because I have never skied. I knew the couple inches of cursed snow that fell in Tennessee every year were nothing compared to what these skies promised. I knew Montana winter would make everything I knew of that season seem trivial and ridiculous.
I’ve spent a lot of time in Yellowstone during the summer, working as a barista. After those seasons ended, I returned home to Tennessee’s bland, rainy winters, sinking into nostalgia when I couldn’t lace up my boots and gawk at mesmerizing vistas whenever I saw fit. So, when the opportunity arose for me to avoid my mom’s shabby sofa in Tennessee and instead live in Montana yearround, I was elated. I also felt uneasy, because I have never skied. I knew the couple inches of cursed snow that fell in Tennessee every year were nothing compared to what these skies promised. I knew Montana winter would make everything I knew of that season seem trivial and ridiculous.
THE
LODGEPOLES WHISPERED, AND
YELLOWSTONE
THE LODGEPOLES WHISPERED, AND YELLOWSTONE BECAME SOMETHING ENTIRELY NEW TO ME: A WINTRY WONDERLAND,
BECAME SOMETHING ENTIRELY NEW TO ME: A WINTRY WONDERLAND, NOT ONLY VOID OF THE SOUND OF LIFE, BUT A PLACE WITH TRUE SOLITUDE.
The next weekend, I took my inaugural solo snowshoeing adventure in the Yellowstone backcountry. I drove to the Fawn Pass trailhead in northwestern Yellowstone. My truck was the only vehicle in the lot on the gorgeous, clear and frigid day. A moose drank out of an unfrozen rivulet beyond the pavement, and I translated it as the beginning of a memorable experience.
The next weekend, I took my inaugural solo snowshoeing adventure in the Yellowstone backcountry. I drove to the Fawn Pass trailhead in northwestern Yellowstone. My truck was the only vehicle in the lot on the gorgeous, clear and frigid day. A moose drank out of an unfrozen rivulet beyond the pavement, and I translated it as the beginning of a memorable experience.
The next weekend, I took my inaugural solo snowshoeing adventure in the Yellowstone backcountry. I drove to the Fawn Pass trailhead in northwestern Yellowstone. My truck was the only vehicle in the lot on the gorgeous, clear and frigid day. A moose drank out of an unfrozen rivulet beyond the pavement, and I translated it as the beginning of a memorable experience.
I watched the moose as I strapped on the snowshoes I’d blindly invested in, hoping they could carry me to the same kind of fond memories my hiking boots had in summers past.
I watched the moose as I strapped on the snowshoes I’d blindly invested in, hoping they could carry me to the same kind of fond memories my hiking boots had in summers past.
I watched the moose as I strapped on snowshoes I’d blindly invested in, hoping they could carry me to the same kind of fond memories my hiking boots had in summers past.
I sallied on, into the trees, without any idea what to expect. Right away, I noticed the silence. No birds chirping, no brooks babbling, no wind—only the thwack of my snowshoes breaking the surface of new snow.
I sallied on, into the trees, without any idea what to expect. Right away, I noticed the silence. No birds chirping, no brooks babbling, no wind—only the thwack of my snowshoes breaking the surface of new snow.
When I paused to sit under a tree for a snack, I lost my balance and fell into an impossible position in two feet of snow. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to escape.
I sallied on, into the trees, without any idea what to expect. Right away, I noticed the silence. No birds chirping, no brooks babbling, no wind—only the thwack of my snowshoes breaking the surface of new snow.
When I paused to sit under a tree for a snack, I lost my balance and fell into an impossible position in two feet of snow. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to escape.
Then, a slight breeze brought the hoary contours of the earth to life. I stopped in wonder. The sun blazed cold and brilliant behind a transparent cloud. Its strange, slanted light animated snow skimming the surface into phantasmagoric spirits. The lodgepoles whispered, and Yellowstone became something entirely new to me: a wintry wonderland, not only void of the sound of life, but a place with true solitude.
It surely is an amazing thing to have the opportunity to be the only person on earth outside of your front door.
Then, a slight breeze brought the hoary contours of the earth to life. I stopped in wonder. The sun blazed cold and brilliant behind a transparent cloud. Its strange, slanted light animated snow skimming the surface into phantasmagoric spirits. The lodgepoles whispered, and Yellowstone became something entirely new to me: a wintry wonderland, not only void of the sound of life, but a place with true solitude.
It surely is an amazing thing to have the opportunity to be the only person on earth outside of your front door.
Some winter adventurers go above the trees, into the big sky and glide through the powdery paradise of Lone Peak; some painstakingly contemplate the cardiovascular benefits of cross-country skiing on one of the area’s many groomed trails; and some of us delve into the blustery and glittering wilderness on snowshoes.
When I paused to sit under a tree for a snack, I lost my balance and fell into an impossible position in two feet of snow. was afraid I wouldn’t be able to escape. Then, a slight breeze brought the hoary contours of the earth to life. I stopped in wonder. The sun blazed cold and brilliant behind a transparent cloud. Its strange, slanted light animated snow skimming the surface into phantasmagoric spirits. The lodgepoles whispered, and Yellowstone became something entirely new to me: a wintry wonderland, not only void of the sound of life, but a place with true solitude.
But I was going to be near the wonderland that stole my heart four summers ago, and I was not about to let some white fluffy stuff deter me from recreating in my new home.
A version of this article first appeared in the Feb. 11, 2011, edition of EBS.
I’ve spent a lot of time in Yellowstone during the summer, working as a barista. After those seasons ended, I returned home to Tennessee’s bland, rainy winters, sinking into nostalgia when I couldn’t lace up my boots and gawk at mesmerizing vistas whenever I saw fit. So, when the opportunity arose for me to avoid my mom’s shabby sofa in Tennessee and instead live in Montana yearround, I was elated. I also felt uneasy, because I have never skied. I knew the couple inches of cursed snow that fell in Tennessee every year
Eddy Murphy is originally from Nashville. He lives in Big Sky and enjoys hiking, fishing and live music.
A version of this article first appeared in the Feb. 11, 2011, edition of EBS. Eddy Murphy is originally from Nashville. He lives in Big Sky and enjoys hiking, fishing and live music.
It surely is an amazing thing to have opportunity to be the only person on earth outside of your front door.
This winter, my first in Big Sky, I’ve spent many subzero mornings trying to extract my two-wheel-drive pickup from Crown Butte Drive’s ditches. When I first purchased snowshoes, I thought their alloy frames looked awkwardly shaped and odd.
Yellowstone explorebigsky.com
A version of this article first appeared in the Feb. 11, 2011, edition of EBS. Eddy Murphy is originally from Nashville. lives in Big Sky and enjoys hiking, fishing and live music.
The next weekend, I took my inaugural solo snowshoeing adventure in the Yellowstone backcountry. I drove to the Fawn Pass trailhead in northwestern Yellowstone. My truck was the only vehicle in the lot on the gorgeous, clear and frigid day. A moose drank out of an unfrozen rivulet beyond the pavement, and I translated it as the beginning of a memorable experience.
Yellowstone
I watched the moose as I strapped on the
GRIZZLY RESTORING HABITAT IN THE NORTHWEST
BY TUCKER HARRIS
Hey Bear partners with Vital Ground Foundation
Fifty years ago there were less than 1,000 grizzlies in the Lower 48. Today, there are more than 2,000, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Vital Ground Foundation and Hey Bear are helping protect bear habitat.
“It’s really a conservation success story,” Kevin Rhoades, Vital Ground’s recurring donation program director said. “But, the thing is, that land between the recovery zones determined by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service back in 1993, there hasn’t really been an effort to conserve those lands until the last 20 to 30 years.”
Vital Ground Foundation’s mission is just that: to protect and restore North America’s grizzly populations for future generations by conserving wildlife habitat and by supporting programs that reduce conflicts between bears and humans.
Hey Bear is a quality accessory and apparel brand helping support organizations with aligning missions: to provide awareness, education and resources for humans to better coexist with bears. Each year, a portion of Hey Bear’s revenue goes to a chosen organization. This year’s partnership is with Vital Ground.
“Conservation has always been a part of my backbone since I was young,” Rhoades said. “And I’ve always had that ethic to conserve—whether it’s grizzly bears or even things like the gray wolf, that’s always been something I’ve been into.”
However, conservation efforts aren’t cheap.
“Land is expensive,” he said. “So we have all these different sources of income to help provide for the work we do on the ground.”
That’s where Hey Bear comes in. As a business partner to Vital Ground, Hey Bear has raised more than $1,000 since June of this year to give back to Vital Ground.
“Vital Ground is an exceptional organization to work with,” Conner Clemens, Hey Bear’s brand manager said. “We work well together because Hey Bear is the educational resource for information about bear safety, and Vital Ground is out in the field making sure that the bears and humans are able to coexist.”
Two of Hey Bear’s mission pillars match with Vital Ground’s: Awareness and Coexistence.
A “jewel of a meadow,” Bismark Meadows is a key land project Vital Ground Foundation worked on for nearly 20 years to conserve and protect. PHOTO COURTESY OF VITAL GROUND
“It’s good synergy,” Rhoades said. “I would say we probably match more with our alignment with what we’re trying to do than any other business partners we have.”
One particular land conservation project Hey Bear is proud to help support through their partnership with Vital Ground is Bismark Meadows.
“Bismark Meadows is this wonderful jewel of a meadow in Idaho’s Panhandle,” Rhoades said. “When we first got our eyes on that land 20 years ago, it was multiple parcels owned by different landowners.”
Vital Ground has slowly completed deal after deal to finally close on the project almost 20 years later this past Spring. At 1,000 acres of meadows and wetlands, Bismark Meadows is a key grizzly habitat for building a connection from southwestern Canada to Montana’s Cabinet Mountains, to Washington’s North Cascades, and to Idaho’s Bitterroot Ecosystem.
Habitat loss is certainly the largest threat for any animal, Rhoades said, but particularly for the grizzly bear as they’re already somewhat isolated in Yellowstone, Glacier National Park and Montana’s Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem.
“When you’ve got people moving here in droves, and people who want a piece of paradise, they buy a big lot,” Rhoades said. “From garbage problems, to hobby chickens, to leaving dog food on the porch, just all those sorts of potential for conflicts increases with more people moving in. That’s why it’s so important that groups like [Vital Ground] are conserving these big chunks of land.”
We can’t stop people from moving to this paradise, but we can help conserve land with nonprofits such as Vital Ground and help raise awareness and educate those in bear country. Hey Bear is a great educational resource for new land and homeowners, providing resources for how to store trash, protect your pets and stay aware.
“We are so proud that our Hey Bear sales are able to help fund the
efforts for Vital Ground to continue their work for long lasting bear biodiversity,” Clemens said.
Bears are not inherently migratory by nature, Rhoades said. However, as the grizzly population has continued to grow, some bears are getting displaced, and younger adolescent grizzlies are starting to venture out and explore due to reaching capacity populations on isolated land.
“The hope,” Rhoades said, “is that there’s enough protection of private lands in between: Whenever they cross highways and such, that they can get there safely with opportunities to connect with other bears.”
Hey Bear invests in orga-
nizations like Vital Ground to support their long-term mission of connecting ecosystems. When you support, shop and shout “Hey Bear!” you’re also giving back to a nonprofit who makes a positive impact on the great bruins in our backyard.
Visit VitalGround.org or heybear.com to learn more.
Vital Ground Foundation’s overarching vision is to protect wildlife habitat and prevent conflicts in the most critical locations across the Northern Rockies and Inland Northwest. GRAPHIC COURTESY OF VITAL GROUND FOUNDATION
Kevin Rhoades from Vital Ground Foundation joined Hey Bear at the Big Sky Community Day event in July of 2022.
PHOTO BY TUCKER HARRIS
Winter Winter Wildlife Guide
A seasonal look at Greater Yellowstone’s adaptive characters
By Jen Clancey
Elk | Cervus canadensis
According to the National Park Service, elk are the most abundant large mammal in Yellowstone. In the winter, their population in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem decreases from summertime’s 10,000-20,000 to less than 4,000. Even with smaller seasonal herds, they are an essential food source for winter predators, composing 85 percent of wolf kills and supplying eats to 12 scavenger species.
A bull elk’s age can be identified by the size, width and number of points on their antlers. At 11 or 12 years old, an elk will likely have the thickest, heaviest and largest antlers in its lifetime. After that, their antler size will decrease. As spring rolls around, you may have a better chance of witnessing evidence of an elk’s path: shed antlers are replaced by new ones in the warmer months.
Fun Fact: An elk’s color changes from light tan in the spring, fall, and winter, to copper brown in the summer. Courtesy Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Long-tailed Weasel | Neogale frenata
While the long-tailed weasel is the largest and most widely distributed of the three North American weasels, you might have a hard time spotting them in the winter. During the spring and summer, the weasels sport a brown coat with a white stomach. But when snow begins to fall, their coats become entirely white as they transform into their winter version, the ermine. Not only does this allow them to hide from predators, but it also camouflages them when they are on the hunt for voles, mice, pocket gophers, smaller birds and rabbits. During the spring and summer, they add various reptiles and amphibians to their diet.
If you are keen to find these elusive winter creatures, here’s a tip from Wade: "Trying to follow their tracks isn't something that's going from point A to point B. It's this really crazy… track pattern, but it's because they're listening to the mice below the snow, and are following exactly on top of wherever that mouse is moving."
The 13- to 18-inch long mammals will likely be seen alone as they are solitary animals.
Fun Fact: The long-tailed weasel’s presence spans from southern Canada to northern South America.
Courtesy University of Minnesota-Duluth
A cow elk moves through snow at Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park. PHOTO BY NEAL HERBERT/NPS
A long-tailed weasel dons its winter coat. PHOTO BY BRYANT OLSEN
One of the wonders of Montana is the wildlife it hosts, its magnificence due in part to the resiliency needed to survive in an often-harsh environment. Montana’s winters illustrate this best, challenging its living inhabitants with blustering winds, freezing temps, dumps of snow and all the side effects of such conditions—especially in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
As a Yellowstone guide for more than 30 years, Denise Wade knows this best. Since 2018, Wade has co-owned Big Sky Adventures & Tours, and her
Mountain Lion | Puma concolor
clients are treated to a unique experience in the snowy season.
“A lot of the winter tours definitely focus on talking about adaptations that wildlife has to make to survive the winters here,” Wade said.
Whether you’re on a tour with Wade, out on an independent adventure or are simply observing the outdoors from your living room window, enjoy Mountain Outlaw ’s field guide as a way to study and appreciate some of Greater Yellowstone’s hardy wildlife—and keep your eyes peeled!
Peregrine Falcon | Falco peregrinus
Because these birds are mostly seen from March through October in the Greater Yellowstone region, it’s a real treat to spot a peregrine falcon during the winter. Coasting at 55 mph when flying, these falcons travel at speeds up to 200 mph when attacking prey—mainly songbirds and waterfowl—in mid-air.
"Peregrine falcons are beautiful to see," Wade said. But for the more casual bird spotter, she advises looking out for eagles if you’re itching to see a predatory bird. "We do get a lot of bald eagles that come down from Canada during winter here. So it's really common to see bald eagles in the winter, more so than the summer," Wade said.
The falcons' population began declining in the 1940s due to impacts from pesticide use. During the 1980s the National Park Service launched efforts to reintroduce the species through captive-bred peregrines, releasing them into Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. In 2022, the park service saw at least 21 young in studied territories.
Fun Fact: The falcon’s name, derived from the Latin word peregrinus, means “to wander.” Courtesy American Bird Conservancy
The cougar, also known as the mountain lion, can be confused with the jaguar of New Mexico and Arizona, but is a smaller species that dwells in more rocky and rugged territories of the West. Due to their elusive nature, cougars narrowly survived an early 1900s campaign to kill off predators. According to the National Park Service, cougars were all but eliminated from Yellowstone National Park but began a slow return to their historic homelands in the 1980s.
Wade says cougars are among the rarest animal to see during both her tours and own personal animal-watching. "Cougars are really hard to see. And for me personally, that's where looking for wildlife tracks and putting together those clues of tracks or scat or rubbings on trees or scratch marks [is important]," she said.
There are an estimated 32 to 42 cougars in the northern portion of Yellowstone National Park, and they are most often seen through the lens of remote cameras and webcams. In the summer, cougars tend to remain at higher elevation but as the weather turns colder, they begin to descend.
Fun Fact: On average, cougars kill elk every 9.4 days and spend about four days with each kill. Courtesy National Park Service
A male peregrine falcon perches on a branch in Yellowstone National Park. PHOTO BY PAT GAINES
A cougar tom peers through tree branches in Yellowstone National Park. PHOTO BY JACOB W. FRANK/NPS
Jen Clancey is the digital producer at Outlaw Partners.
w w w . R o c k i e s r e b e l s . c o m
P h o t o g r a p h y B y E m i l y J e a n R u s s e l l
Fly Fishing. Refined.
Fly Fishing in Montana can be a rugged, sometimes-tiring adventure—that’s why Madison Double R will be a welcome respite at the end of each day.
Located on the world-renowned Madison River south of Ennis, Madison Double R offers first-quality accommodations, outstanding cuisine, expert guides, and a fly fishing lodge experience second to none. Now accepting bookings for the 2022 season.
TO YELLOWSTONE’S
MYSTIC FALLS
By John Layshock
PHOTOS BY JOHN LAYSHOCK
IT’S AN EXPERIENCE LIKE NOTHING ELSE.
The Mystic Falls trail begins at the Biscuit Basin parking lot near Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park.
My neighbor and good friend Brett Bench took the day off to help me enjoy this adventure to the falls. We both prefer splitboarding, to fully enjoy the descent, and it’s a great way to tour this loop. There’s not a lot of vertical, but a few great powder turns go a long way. The Upper Geyser Basin has miles of trails, and while touring in the winter isn’t the easiest, there are excellent opportunities for Nordic skiing, splitboarding, snowshoeing or walking.
As you leave the parking lot, you ski past a number of thermal features including the Sapphire Pool and Jewel Geyser. The Sapphire Pool is about 200 F and is on the top of my list of the most beautiful and inviting pools in the park. The Jewel Geyser sits about 100 feet away and erupts about every 5-10 minutes, shooting steam and water 10-30 feet high.
The trail leads away from the basin and toward the caldera rim. It’s about a mile to the falls along the Little Firehole River and the trail continues up and around Mystic Falls to make a 3-mile loop back to the basin. It’s an easy-to-moderate ski to the base of
WINTER IS THE BEST TIME TO FEEL THE WEIGHT OF YELLOWSTONE’S AWESOME SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SENSES
the falls before the trail gains a couple hundred vertical feet and another mile to the Upper Geyser Basin overlook.
Touring groups should be aware of a few potential slide paths near the falls, and it’s important to have someone with avalanche training and local snowpack knowledge. The loop from the base of the falls back to the trailhead is for intermediate to advanced backcountry enthusiasts.
Mystic Falls is approximately 70 feet tall. There are dozens of smaller cascading waterfalls above and below the main waterfall along with dozens of hot springs. Unlike the geyser basins, these hot springs seep into the river. There are a few hot pools around the bottom of the falls and brightly colored bacteria can be seen living on the canyon walls. Large amounts of steam billow from the top of the falls far from the trail, but are dangerous and should not be approached.
From the top of the overlook, the view can be overwhelming to most visitors viewing them from this vantage point, including myself. But the vista is breathtaking, showcasing Upper, Black Sand and Biscuit basins, which contain a significant percentage of all the geysers in the world including Old Faithful.
Winter is the best time to feel the weight of Yellowstone’s awesome sights, sounds and senses. The geology and biology contain secrets of the universe that today’s scientists are still trying to understand. The bacteria from the waters and mud pots in Yellowstone require extreme temperatures, and some species don’t even need oxygen. They could easily resemble, or be related to, life on other planets.
The best way to tour in Yellowstone is to charter a snow coach with a group of friends. It costs a bit more than a lift ticket at your local ski hill, but it’s an experience like nothing else.
John Layshock is a guide for Yellowstone Alpen Guides and has been showing guests the wonders of the park for over eight years.
the Best Places to Eat Near Yellowstone National Park
Bozeman, MT:
THE FARMER’S DAUGHTERS CAFE
510 N 7th
The Farmer’s Daughters Café & Eatery offers more than just a meal—it’s a journey through Montana’s rich agricultural landscape. Located in RSVP Motel BZN, this vibrant café prides itself on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that capture the essence of Montana’s farms and fields. With every bite, expect the warmth and satisfaction that only great taste can deliver, creating a dining experience that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
SKY
SHED
24 W Mendenhall St.
Sky Shed offers a rooftop experience overlooking the breathtaking mountains surrounding. The menu offers a wide range of options from comfort food to fine dining. Sky Shed is located on top of the Kimpton Armory Hotel and is the perfect place for hotel guests or locals.
BODHI
FARMS FIELD KITCHEN
RESTAURANT
13624 S Cottonwood Rd.
Experience “farm to table wild game” dining. Field Kitchen offers a connection to the history of our surrounding area as every plate has a story. They are open year-round offering dishes that match each season with fish, game meat, fresh fruits and farm-grown vegetables.
AC BENCHMARK
110 N Tracy Ave.
Benchmark is a four-season rooftop restaurant and bar located on the sixth floor of the AC Hotel. You will find a variety of Neapolitan-style pizzas, appetizers and salads. You can pair your meal with one of their premium hand-crafted cocktails, wines, or beers on tap.
Big Sky, MT:
HORN AND CANTLE
750 Lone Mountain Ranch Rd.
Horn and Cantle is a crowd favorite. Located at Lone Mountain Ranch, you can make this lunch or dinner an experience. Wear your Montana best for a fun night out with fire pits going, live music
(6:30pm-8:30pm) and amazing food and drinks. They take pridein their farm-to-table menu. At Horn and Cantle you will be sure to find a mix of “on the range classics just off the beaten path.”
WILD CADDIS
42950 Gallatin Rd.
Wild Caddis is located at Rainbow Ranch Lodge along the Gallatin River and surrounded by the mountains and open seasonally. Guests at Wild Caddis can expect a real ranch-to-table experience as Wild Caddis takes pride in supporting local farms and sustainable products whenever possible. You can choose from an award-winning wine list or stick to a local brew. For the food, you will have to make some tough decisions as everything is delicious and a wide variety of food is offered.
OUSEL AND SPUR
50 Ousel Falls Rd.
Ousel and Spur is known for their delicious Italian cuisine. They offer a wide range of pizzas and pastas in a relaxed setting. They have outdoor seating in the summertime overlooking the beautiful mountain ranges. Their indoor seating is cozy and year-round.
BLOCK 3 KITCHEN & BAR
145 Town Center Ave
Block 3 gives you the authentic Montana experience with their rustic, yet cozy, and modern decor. Their menu features a variety of different types of food ranging from soups and salads to seafood to some of the best Montana game. They also take pride in their delicious cocktails and ongoing list of fine wines. This Montanastyle chophouse will satisfy everybody.
RIVERHOUSE BBQ & EVENTS
45130 Gallatin Rd.
If you’re looking for something a bit more casual or for a bigger group, Riverhouse is the perfect option. Enjoy live music while overlooking the Gallatin River. Riverhouse is home to the best barbeque in town. They don’t take reservations and many times have a waitlist but that’s part of the fun. Grab a drink, sit by the fire, play some cornhole and look out at beautiful Big Sky all before you eat.
Livingston, MT:
2ND STREET BISTRO
123 N 2nd St.
The 2nd Street Bistro combines the techniques of classic French cooking with locally and regionally sourced Montana lamb, pork, beef, chicken and produce. In this kitchen, everything is made completely from scratch. The food is mostly classic French cuisine, as well as some worldly flavors and other European classic bites.
FAINTING GOAT PUB
122 N Main St.
One of the few places that serves food until midnight. With live music four nights a week and a cozy atmosphere, you can come here for a comforting evening with yummy food and drinks. Fainting Goat Pub aims to provide guests with an authentic Irish Pub experience.
LIVINGSTON BAR & GRILL
130 N Main St.
Livingston Bar and Grill channels the warmth and charm of Montana. They offer classic American cuisine with a modern flair at reasonable prices. This is an easy night out for any occasion.
Cooke City, MT:
MINERS SALOON
208 Main Street East
Miners Saloon is a guaranteed spot that will leave you feeling full! Pizza, burgers, salads, and tacos are the foods they are known for. Their
recipes use the best local ingredients that change with the seasons. In a small town like Cooke City, you won’t be sorry if you stop by.
MONTASIA
102 Main St.
Voted Best Asian Restaurant in Montana two years in a row. This restaurant mixes up your typical Western cuisine. It’s a tiny walkup place with a few outdoor tables and an intriguing menu featuring exciting burgers, creative Asian food and unique drinks.
West Yellowstone, MT:
PETE’S ROCKY
MOUNTAIN PIZZA
112 N Canyon St.
Looking for something easy yet yummy, Pete’s is your place. They serve delicious pizza and pastas. A great place to go with families and friends. Pete’s is locally owned but you will feel at home no matter where you are from.
THE BRANCH RESTAURANT AND BAR
315 Yellowstone Ave.
The Branch is an essential stop on your journey visiting Yellowstone National Park. Stop in for breakfast to get energized before a day of adventuring or stop by for dinner to relax after a long day. They have an extensive menu with many options as well as a game room with pinball, pool tables, air hockey and more.
BULLWINKLE’S SALOON AND EATERY
115 N Canton St.
Bullwinkle’s features a menu sure to please everyone. They offer freshly hand-cut, dry-aged steaks and chops, prime rib, pasta, Idaho Trout, chicken, sandwiches, salads, appetizers, vegetarian, and glutenfree meals. They even make delicious homemade desserts.
Gardiner, MT:
GRIZZLY GRILLE
375 US HWY 89 S
Grizzly Grille is a perfect pit stop for a quick bite to eat. This food truck allows you to create your own bowl or sandwich along with the ability to order some sides. You will leave ready to keep adventuring.
RUSTY RAIL LOUNGE
901 Scott St. W
Rusty Rail Lounge is a familyfriendly restaurant with an “Old West” atmosphere. Featuring steaks, seafood, pastas and more, with friendly service and generous portions, you can rest assured you won’t walk away hungry.
OUTLAW’S PIZZA
906 Scott St.
Outlaw’s Pizza is a lovely eatery with some of the best views of Gardiner. You can get pizza, pasta or take advantage of their full salad bar. Take a step into the Old West and enjoy a meal with guaranteed great service.
Jackson Hole, WY:
PERSEPHONE BAKERY
3445 North Pines Way, Wilson WY OR 145 East Broadway
Delicious coffee and pastries for breakfast or enjoy a healthy, clean meal from their lunch menu. A cute atmosphere in two different locations. This spot is definitely a must go, and if you make it early enough maybe you can snag my personal favorite, their almond croissant.
HEALTHY BEING CAFE
165 E Broadway
“Food that makes you feel as good as it tastes.” Healthy Being is a cafe, juicery and wellbeing market that focuses on organic ingredients. Leave here feeling nourished and ready to go for the day’s activities, or stop in for lunch for a mid-day recharge.
ORSETTO
161 Center St.
This fantastic Italian restaurant is fashionable with trendy decor and great service. It offers outdoor seating seasonally. This restaurant is great for dinner and drinks or more of a late night vibe.
Driggs, ID:
FORAGE BISTRO & LOUNGE
253 Warbird Lane
Forage Bistro & Lounge offers the perfect ambience to unwind and enjoy your favorite drinks and chef inspired food. Here you can find chef-inspired mountain comfort food with a twist. The food is made from scratch, using local ingredients anytime possible.
SNAKE RIVER GRILL
84 E Broadway Ave
If you’re looking for a fine dining, nicer evening out, you can find that at the Snake River Grill. Snake River Grill has been around for 30 years and is still the local’s favorite. The restaurant has a rustic but elegant feel, making for a cozy, Western experience.
BUBBA’S BBQ
100 Flat Creek Dr.
Bubba’s is the best BBQ in Jackson Hole at prices that are affordable. It has been a crowd favorite for 40 years now and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is something on the menu for everybody in your party so be sure to swing by.
Cody, WY:
TRAILHEAD BAR & GRILL
1326 Beck Ave
Sit back and relax in this cozy, warm atmosphere that serves up good drinks and good eats. Immerse yourself in the ambience of an urban mountain lodge while enjoying sensational seasonal dishes alongside their wood fired pizza menu.
THE ROYAL WOLF
63 Depot St.
This lively atmosphere is suitable for anyone. Offering great food and drinks, this restaurant is a local favorite. They have a wide variety of food from small plates to soups and salads to burgers and sandwiches to tacos and more.
BLANCA TATANKA
1455 Sheridan Ave
Nestled within the heart of Cody, where the Rocky Mountains meet the endless stretch of open plains, lies this hidden gem of friendly and lively charm. This place offers a menu of small plates so you can try a bunch of dishes. Either just for yourself or to split between your party.
BUFFALO BILL’S IRMA
HOTEL RESTAURANT AND SALOON
1313 Sheridan Ave
Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel is the gathering and meeting place for cowboys, artists, ranchers, outfitters and locals. It is a dining spot renowned for its hearty cuisine and Western ambience. Beyond its cuisine, the Silver Dollar Bar and Grill serves as a lively hub for entertainment, offering musical performances that showcase local talent.
CITIZEN
33
364 N Main St.
At Citizen 33 you can find delicious food and cold craft beer. Citizen 33 was built for the community members and the visitors of Teton Valley so that people could come together and celebrate the amazing surrounding areas. They are open seven days a week from 4pm - 9pm.
As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, autumn and winter in Yellowstone Country offers an extraordinary opportunity for stargazing. The crisp, clear air, combined with the region’s low light pollution, creates perfect conditions for viewing the night sky in all its glory. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply someone who enjoys gazing up at the stars, Yellowstone Country provides some of the best stargazing experiences in the world. Here’s where and when to go for the ultimate stargazing adventure.
Fall and winter are ideal times for stargazing in Yellowstone Country for several reasons. As temperatures drop, the air becomes clearer and more stable, reducing atmospheric turbulence that can blur the view of celestial objects. The long nights of September, October, November, and December also mean more time to enjoy the stars, planets, and other night sky phenomena.
In addition to the favorable atmospheric conditions, these months often bring fewer visitors to the region. This means you’re more likely to have the best stargazing spots all to yourself, enhancing the tranquility and solitude that make stargazing such a magical experience.
Courtesy of Yellowstone Country
THE ROOSEVELT ARCH AT THE NORTH ENTRANCE TO YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK.
THE MILKY WAY REFLECTED ON A BEAVER POND
Top Stargazing Spots in Yellowstone Country
Yellowstone National Park: Hayden Valley
Hayden Valley’s wide-open spaces and lack of artificial light make it ideal for stargazing. The clear nights offer spectacular views of the Milky Way and constellations like Orion and Cassiopeia.
Yellowstone National Park: Lamar Valley
Known for its wildlife, Lamar Valley also boasts minimal light pollution. Its expansive landscapes provide an unobstructed view of the night sky, perfect for spotting the Milky Way and meteor showers.
Yellowstone National Park: Old Faithful Area
After dark, the Old Faithful area becomes a serene spot for stargazing. The geothermal features create a unique contrast against the starry sky, offering a memorable night sky experience.
Paradise Valley
North of Yellowstone, Paradise Valley features dark skies with minimal light pollution. It’s a great location to enjoy a tranquil stargazing experience with views of distant galaxies and planets.
Best Times for Fall Stargazing
Big Sky: Summit of Lone Mountain
The summit of Lone Mountain, accessible via tram, provides high-altitude views of the night sky. The clear, crisp air at 11,166 feet makes for brilliant stargazing.
West Yellowstone: Earthquake Lake
Earthquake Lake, formed by a 1959 earthquake, offers a reflective surface and dark skies for stargazing. The remote location ensures minimal light pollution, ideal for seeing the Milky Way and the Northern Lights.
Beartooth Highway near Red Lodge
The Beartooth Highway’s high elevations and clear air make it perfect for stargazing. Several pullouts along the drive provide excellent views of the Milky Way and other constellations.
Buffalo Bill State Park near Cody, WY
Just west of Cody, Buffalo Bill State Park offers dark skies and minimal light pollution. The park’s expansive views and tranquil setting make it a great spot for observing stars and planets.
For the best experience, stargaze during the new moon phase in September or October, and keep an eye out for the Orionid meteor shower in late October. The Northern Lights occasionally appear in fall, especially in northern regions.
Best Times for Winter Stargazing
Winter is one of the best times for stargazing in Yellowstone, thanks to its long, dark nights and clear skies. Mid-December through February is ideal, especially on nights surrounding a new moon when the Milky Way and constellations like Orion and Gemini dominate the sky.
Tips for a Great Stargazing Experience
Dress Warmly: Fall nights can be chilly; layers, hats, and gloves are recommended. Bring a Blanket or Chair: Make your experience comfortable by lying on a blanket or sitting in a chair.
Use a Star Chart or App: Helpful for identifying constellations and celestial objects. Check the Weather: Ensure clear skies for the best stargazing conditions.
Allow Your Eyes to Adjust: It takes about 20 minutes for eyes to adapt to darkness.
Fall and winter in Yellowstone Country offer some of the best stargazing opportunities of the year. With dark skies, clear air, and stunning landscapes, it’s the perfect time to explore the wonders of the night sky.
PHOTO BY NPS / JACOB W. FRANK
BIRDWATCHING IN YELLOWSTONE:
A Year-Round Guide to Rare & Common Species
Yellowstone National Park is not only a geological wonder but also a birdwatcher’s paradise. Home to over 300 bird species, the park offers a variety of habitats, from alpine forests to expansive wetlands. Whether you’re an avid birder or a casual wildlife enthusiast, each season presents a unique opportunity to experience Yellowstone’s avian diversity, from summer migratory birds to hardy residents braving the winter.
BIRDWATCHING BY SEASON
While summer is often seen as the prime season for birdwatching, Yellowstone’s changing landscapes and habitats create opportunities for bird enthusiasts throughout the year.
SUMMER
PRIME BIRDWATCHING SEASON
June-August
Summer is the most active season for birdwatchers in Yellowstone. Migratory birds return to the park to nest, and many rare species are easier to spot during the warmer months. The melting snow opens up access to trails, and longer daylight hours offer extended viewing opportunities.
COMMON SUMMER BIRDS:
Osprey: Summer is the best time to witness these majestic birds hunting for fish in the park’s rivers and lakes. They’re frequently seen around Yellowstone Lake and the Yellowstone River and known for their spectacular dives into water to catch fish.
Raven: These intelligent birds can be found almost everywhere in the park, from forested areas to geyser basins.
Sandhill Crane: These tall, majestic birds are commonly found in the park’s marshy areas and wetlands, often spotted in Hayden and Lamar Valleys. They’re recognizable by their tall, gray bodies and loud, bugling calls.
RARE SUMMER BIRDS:
Harlequin Duck: Rare and elusive, these beautifully patterned ducks favor fast-moving rivers, especially in the Lamar River and the northeastern part of the park.
Great Gray Owl: One of the largest owls in North America, the Great Gray Owl is known for its silent flight and intense hunting skills. They’re primarily found in the park’s dense forests and considered a summer prize for patient birdwatchers.
Hiker looks for wildlife along the Pebble Creek Trail
MIGRATION AND FLEDGING
September-November
As fall sets in, many bird species begin to migrate south. It’s a great time to witness birds preparing for their long journeys, and you can also catch sight of some late-season fledglings.
COMMON FALL BIRDS:
A symbol of American wildlife, the Bald Eagle is commonly seen near water sources. Look for their large nests, called eyries, built high in trees. These eagles are active hunters in fall, building strength before winter.
As coniferous forests begin dropping seeds, Clark’s Nutcrackers can be seen foraging and storing food for winter.
This powerful bird of prey can be spotted in Yellowstone’s dense forests as it hunts during the cooler months.
A migratory raptor that can sometimes be seen in the park during its journey southward.
HARDY RESIDENTS AND SNOWY LANDSCAPES
Winter in Yellowstone is a completely different experience. Only the hardiest bird species remain, but the solitude of the snowy landscape offers dedicated birdwatchers the chance to spot some truly unique winter residents.
COMMON WINTER BIRDS:
Gray Jay: These bold birds are often seen in winter, particularly around forests and visitor areas, scavenging for food.
Golden Eagle: Found hunting over open fields and snow-covered valleys, the Golden Eagle is a sight to behold against the stark winter backdrop.
RARE WINTER BIRDS:
Great Gray Owl: Even in the deep winter, this elusive owl is sometimes spotted in the park’s dense, snowy forests. Its silent flight makes it difficult to spot but incredibly rewarding.
Rough-legged Hawk: A rare but hardy winter visitor, this hawk is often seen hunting over open meadows.
THE RETURN OF MIGRANTS
March-May
Spring brings life back to Yellowstone as migratory birds begin to return from their southern wintering grounds. As snow melts, the park’s rivers, lakes, and meadows burst into activity.
COMMON SPRING BIRDS:
American Dipper: A year-round resident, this small bird becomes more active as streams thaw. It can often be found near fast-moving streams and rivers and recognized by its distinctive dipping behavior as it hunts for aquatic insects.
Mountain Bluebird: One of the first signs of spring, the Mountain Bluebird returns to open meadows in search of food and nesting spots. You can easily identify the males by their vibrant blue feathers.
Osprey: Arriving in April, these raptors can be seen fishing in Yellowstone Lake and along rivers.
RARE SPRING BIRDS:
Peregrine Falcon: Returning to nest on cliffs, this fast-flying falcon is often seen hunting during spring.
Trumpeter Swan: Though present year-round, their activity increases as ponds, rivers, and lakes begin to thaw. The world’s largest waterfowl species, they’re known for their elegant appearance.
Mountain bluebird in the Lower Geyser Basin
Bald eagle feeding on a lake trout on Lewis Lake
Great gray owl in Canyon area
BEST BIRDWATCHING SPOTS IN YELLOWSTONE BY SEASON
While birds can be found throughout the park, certain areas are known as birdwatching hotspots. Here are some recommended locations: Yellowstone Lake and Hayden Valley: Spring/Summer
In spring and summer, this area is teeming with waterfowl such as Trumpeter Swans, American White Pelicans, and Osprey. These wetlands attract a variety of species as the snow melts.
Lamar Valley: Year-Round
Known for its abundant wildlife, Lamar Valley is great for spotting birds of prey such as Bald Eagles, Harlequin Ducks, and Golden Eagles. It’s also a prime spot for Sandhill Cranes in spring and summer.
Tower-Roosevelt and Dunraven Pass: Spring/Summer
The higher elevation and cliffs in this area offer the perfect chance to spot Peregrine Falcons, Mountain Bluebirds, and Ravens. The surrounding forests are home to Great Gray Owls and other forest species. Mammoth Hot Springs: Winter
The Mammoth Hot Springs area offers birdwatchers a unique opportunity to spot birds that survive the park’s harsh winters. Look for Gray Jays, Golden Eagles, and Rough-legged Hawks. Old Faithful and Geyser Basins: Spring/Summer
While more known for its geothermal features, the forests and meadows around Old Faithful are home to many smaller bird species like American Dippers and Ravens.
Great blue herons fighting in Hayden Valley
Year-Round Birdwatching Tips for Yellowstone Visitors
To make the most of your birdwatching adventure in Yellowstone throughout the year, keep the following tips in mind:
Be Prepared for Weather - Yellowstone’s weather is unpredictable, especially in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Dress in layers and bring rain gear, especially during the spring and early summer.
Bring Binoculars, a Field Guide, and a Camera - Quality binoculars are essential for spotting birds at a distance, especially those perched in tall trees or flying overhead. A camera with a zoom lens is also recommended for capturing birds of prey and other species that prefer to stay far from humans. And a field guide to the birds of Yellowstone can help you identify the species you encounter.
Arrive Early or Stay Late - Birds are most active at dawn and dusk, regardless of the season. Early morning birdwatching also offers the added benefit of fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
Use a Birdwatching App - Apps like eBird or Merlin can help you track sightings, identify species in real-time, and learn bird calls, enhancing your birdwatching experience.
Respect Wildlife and Stay on Trails - Yellowstone is a delicate ecosystem. Ensure you respect the park’s rules, avoid disturbing nesting sites, and stay on marked trails to protect both the birds and their habitats.
Be Patient and Quiet - Many birds, especially the rare ones, are shy and elusive. Move slowly, keep noise to a minimum, and allow the birds to reveal themselves.
Conservation and Bird Protection in Yellowstone
Yellowstone plays a crucial role in protecting bird habitats, especially for endangered and sensitive species. The trumpeter swan, for example, was once near extinction, but thanks to conservation efforts, its population is slowly rebounding. When birdwatching, it’s important to respect the park’s rules to ensure the continued safety and preservation of these bird populations.
Whether you’re looking to spot a rare peregrine falcon soaring over the cliffs or enjoy the cheerful song of a mountain bluebird, Yellowstone National Park offers a unique and rewarding birdwatching experience no matter the season. From the migratory birds of spring and summer to the hardy species that brave the harsh winter, the park offers an ever-changing display of avian life that will leave you in awe.
By following proper birdwatching etiquette and respecting the park’s natural environment, you can help ensure that these remarkable creatures continue to thrive for generations to come.
Quick Guide to Winter Planning When Visiting Yellowstone National Park
Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park is very exciting. However, exploring in different seasons can make for different experiences. Here is a checklist with some helpful tips and tricks so you can visit the park in the winter, stress free.
If you plan to drive into the park you must enter through the North Entrance in Gardiner, MT. It is the only entrance open to regular vehicles in the winter.
Make sure you follow the speed limit and use pull offs to watch wildlife. Double check road conditions before visiting as roads can close temporarily, and be sure you have enough gas.
Winter temperatures on average range from 0° to 20°, but can also drop below zero and into the negatives, especially at night, so make sure you pack proper clothing.
We recommend layering up
· Waterproof outer layer
· Thermal under layers
· Wool socks, gloves
· Warm hat
· A neck gaiter…but you’ll still want to apply sunscreen!
Practice “safe selfies,” and never get too close to wildlife. Lots of animals look cute but if you get too close they will not be so cute and many times become very dangerous. Keep 100 yards away from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards away from all other animals, especially bison and elk.
Be prepared with bringing the proper gear and equipment you might need
· Traction devices for your shoes or snowshoes for icy trails
· Ski or trekking poles for balance
· Water-resistant backpack
· Camera!!!
· Snacks and water
(Dining is limited in the winter but you can find food services in the Mammoth and Old Faithful areas.)
Safety is a huge priority in the park
With wild animals, limited cell service and sometimes harsh winter conditions, here are some reminders:
· Again, stay a good distance away from wildlife.
· Stay on marked trails.
· Carry essentials like water, high-calorie snacks, a first aid kit, an emergency blanket, and a headlamp.
· If you’re venturing into backcountry areas, check for avalanche advisories and carry appropriate safety gear like beacons, probes, and shovels. Be sure you know what you are doing and that you are aware of the risks.
By Christine Gianas Weinheimer Yellowstone
Forever
Floating, hiking, fishing . . . while we’re still enjoying everything summer has to offer in the Greater Yellowstone area, August is the ideal time to start planning for winter fun in Yellowstone National Park.
A Yellowstone Forever Institute Field Seminar is a unique way to experience Yellowstone in the wintertime. These in-depth learning experiences are led by experts in their field and allow participants to explore a specific topic of interest or try a new skill. Registration for winter 2024 – 2025 field seminars are open, and popular programs will fill up fast.
Yellowstone Forever, the official nonprofit partner of Yellowstone National Park, hosts these educational programs to help visitors enjoy, understand, and appreciate the wildlife, geology, and cultural history of the park. During the quietly beautiful winter season, there are many different ways to engage with Yellowstone, with courses that focus on activities ranging from snowshoeing and winter landscape photography, to wolfwatching and reading wildlife tracks in the snow.
“In many ways, winter is the defining season for Yellowstone,” said Robert Petty, senior director of education for Yellowstone Forever. “The plants and animals … in Yellowstone [are here] in large measure because of the long, cold winters. It is hard to fully appreciate the harsh and beautiful majesty of this landscape without spending time here during the winter season. Participating in one of our winter field seminars is an excellent way to experience this spectacular season.”
Courses led by naturalists and wildlife biologists highlight cougars, wolves, ungulates, birds, or wildlife behavior. Others delve into the human stories of the Greater
Yellowstone Region by exploring park history, conservation efforts, and Lakota traditions. Participants can even choose to spend a holiday at Lamar Buffalo Ranch with special programs to celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year.
Four different photography-themed field seminars provide expert guidance for photographers of all levels who would like to capture Yellowstone’s magnificent winter landscapes and wildlife, and hone their skills both in the field and at their computer.
The months of February and March brings Lamar Valley Wolf Week, an annual favorite that, due to popular demand, is now offered in three sessions. Lamar Valley Wolf Week lets participants immerse themselves in the wolf’s winter world with naturalist-led snowshoe excursions, evening talks by wolf experts, and plenty of wolf-watching in the field.
The field seminars available this winter season include the following:
• Legacy of Nimiipuu (Nez Perce)
• Thanksgiving in Lamar
• Night Skies: Peering into the Cosmos
• Mino – Bimaadiziwin: The Good Life
• Christmas in Lamar
• New Years Wildlife Watching
• Understanding ‘Wolf’
• The Winter World of Ravens, Wolves & People
• Yellowstone Winterscape Photography
• In Celebration of Wolves: 30 Years
• Winter Wildlife Photography
• Advanced Winter Wildlife Photography
• Yellowstone Communities & Kinship: Exploring Our Place in This Place
• Yellowstone Winter Master Naturalist
• Boomers Beyond Boundaries: Backcountry Skiing in Yellowstone
• Boomers Beyond Boundaries: Crosscountry Skiing in Yellowstone
• Intelligence of Animals
• Night Skies: Yellowstone’s Snow Moon
• Cedar Smoke & Stickman: Healing Words in Yellowstone for Women
• Yellowstone Winterscape Photography
For most winter field seminars, participants can reserve lodging with Yellowstone Forever at either the Overlook Field Campus in Gardiner, Montana, or the Lamar Buffalo Ranch in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley.
Registration for 2024-2025 winter field seminars is currently open.
Learn more at yellowstone.org/field-seminars/.
PHOTO BY NPS / ADDY FALGOUST
PHOTO BY NPS / JACOB W. FRANK
Find Your Next Home in Yellowstone Country
Yellowstone Country offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant communities, and endless adventure, making it the ideal place to find your dream home. Whether you’re looking for a mountain retreat, a family-friendly neighborhood, or a property close to the action of Yellowstone National Park, these trusted real estate professionals are here to guide you through the process
PARTING SHOT
Skiing the Bunsen Peak Road Ski Trail
PHOTO BY NPS / JACOB W. FRANK
EXPLORE THE BEST DINING | LODGING | ACTIVITIES ADVENTURES | REAL ESTATE
