The Yellowstone Forever Institute is excited to add seven new field seminars to the 2019-2020 winter course schedule.

From photography to wildlife watching to snowshoeing, our new classes offer exciting ways to engage with Yellowstone this winter. Check out the offerings, and register now before classes fill!

SOLD OUT: Advanced Winter Wildlife Photography

When: Dec. 7-11

Immerse yourself in the magic of Yellowstone in winter with one of our winter photography field seminars!

While the Advanced Winter Wildlife Photography seminar is sold out, there’s still room in our Winter Wildlife Photography and Art of Winter Landscape Photography seminars!

Join us in Yellowstone this winter.

Wolf Spirit: Science & Society — A Wilderness Retreat

When: Dec. 16-20

The relationship between humans and wolves has had a long and turbulent history—from the wolves’ near eradication to their emergence as our most treasured canine companions.

In an intimate, small-group setting, we will explore the individual stories of Yellowstone’s most charismatic wolves.

Using wolves as our barometer, we will explore how reciprocity, compassion, and individuality within wolf packs can elevate joy within our own lives when we return to everyday society.

Yellowstone’s Dark Skies

When: Jan. 2-6

What better way to start the new year than stargazing deep in Yellowstone National Park?

In this astronomy class you’ll spend each evening exploring the dazzling dark night sky over the Lamar Valley—navigating with star maps and planisphere, finding planets with your own eyes, and studying stars and nebula through binoculars and telescopes.

In daytime sessions, you’ll study astronomy, safely view the sun, learn star stories, and learn how to choose a telescope.

Wolves, Dogs, and Humans

When: Jan 6-10

Archeological and genetic evidence has demonstrated that humans have a closer and more ancient history with wolves (and, ultimately, domestic dogs) than any other animal species on the planet.

Ironically, wolves remain one of the most persecuted species on the planet and have been exterminated throughout much of their range—an issue that rages today, including around Yellowstone National Park. 

This class will touch on these topics and give participants a rich understanding of just how unique our relationship is and has been with Canis lupus.

SOLD OUT: Lamar Valley Wolf Week: Special 25th Anniversary Edition

When: Jan 11-15

It’s the 25th anniversary of the restoration of Yellowstone’s wolves and we’re celebrating with a special Lamar Valley Wolf Week!

While this class is sold out, there are plenty of other opportunities to explore the wonders of wolves in Yellowstone this winter.

Words Run Wild

When: Feb 15-18

Open your mind and test your mettle in Yellowstone’s fierce and beautiful winter. You’ll spend mornings in the field, observing wildlife and the landscape and practicing the art of taking field notes. 

During the afternoon you’ll adjourn to the studio to explore an organic way of writing, which draws on your unconscious, creative mind. We’ll listen to each other’s drafts and work with techniques and readings. You’ll leave this workshop with lots of new drafts and sensory memories from the wild!

Yellowstone & Yoga: A Winter Yoga Ski Retreat

When: Feb. 27-Mar. 2

Days filled with yoga and skiing, all with the backdrop of Yellowstone—what could be better? In this retreat you’ll come to your mat each morning with awareness, and allow asana and pranayama to deepen your connection to self and to Yellowstone. You will strengthen and stretch ski muscles while improving balance and concentration.

Your days will continue in the afternoon on skis, gliding on groomed surfaces or creating your own tracks through powdery snow. Throughout it all you’ll learn about Yellowstone’s history, geology, and wildlife ecology, and develop personal connections to winter and Yellowstone.