DATES: JAN 29 – FEB 1, 2026
PRICE: $1,192 | TUITION & LODGING
LOCATION: LAMAR BUFFALO RANCH
GROUP SIZE: 12
ACTIVITY LEVEL: 1
PROGRAM INFORMATION
This field session focuses on documenting the often silent beauty and unique aspects of Yellowstone National Park during the colder months focusing on observations like snow patterns, geological formations, animal tracks, and the resilience of plants and wildlife.
Subject to weather conditions, time in the field will begin with instruction provided by two of the finest nature journaling educators in the northern Rockies, followed by opportunities to practice journaling individually.
Participants will explore how organisms appear, move, live and interact with their winter environment while writing questions, making observations and reflecting on what is seen. Nature journaling uses sketching to create useful drawings that teach one to see and notice the natural world. No skills necessary. Materials list will be provided.
DAY 1
WELCOME & ORIENTATION
The program starts with an evening orientation. Participants will get to know one another and be introduced to the program. Throughout the evening, the itinerary and seminar key concepts will be discussed, as well as what to expect to pack for the field each day.
DAYS 2 & 3
INTRODUCTION AND FIELD OBSERVATIONS
Introductory session on journaling traditions and fundamentals followed by time in the field to practice observing and recording in nature journals. Learning modules tailored to opportunities available in the Park, subject to change due to weather.
DAY 4
CHECKOUT & DEPARTURE
Dates & Times: The program begins at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026, and goes through Saturday, January 31, 2026,
at 5:00 p.m.
Lodging Check-in & Check-out: Lodging check-in begins at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026, and lodging check-out is at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
Meals: This course is not catered. Participants will need to bring their own food; lunch should be able to travel in the field.
Whom to Contact: For any questions, concerns, or additional information please contact the following:
Program itinerary, health forms, payment, and general program questions please contact Yellowstone Forever at [email protected] or 406-848-2400 extension 3
Road updates, park conditions, and general park information please contact Yellowstone National Park Service at https://www.nps.gov/yell/contacts.htm
If running late for a program, please contact 406-848-9128.
General Information: For general information about the facilities, preparation for classes, what to expect, cancellation policies, and more, please see the Lamar Buffalo Ranch – Winter General Information document.
ACTIVITY LEVEL 1
- Be prepared for leisurely hikes up to 1 mile per day through relatively flat terrain on maintained or snow-packed trails.
- Most activities will take place at elevations between 7,200 to 8,000 feet. Participants residing at lower elevations may want to arrive a day early to adjust to the altitude.
- To learn more about how specific medical conditions can be affected by Yellowstone’s environment and our activities, please visit our site page on health information.
- All field activities will be conducted as a group. If members of the group cannot participate in the day’s activities, they need to let the educator know in advance.
- To participate in this program, each participant must fill out and sign a health questionnaire and assumption of risk waiver. These forms must be completed and returned at least 30 days prior to the program start date.
- Bring your favorite journaling supplies if you have them.
- We will provide:
- a watercolor journal
- micron pen
- pencils
- water brushes
- paint palette with watercolor paints (samples of each)
- water containers
RECOMMENDED READINGS
- Canfield, Michael R. Editor, (2011). Field Notes on Science and Nature, Harvard University Press.
Whom to Contact: For any questions, concerns, or additional information please contact the following:
Program itinerary, health forms, payment, and general program questions please contact Yellowstone Forever at [email protected] or 406-848-2400 extension 3
Road updates, park conditions, and general park information please contact Yellowstone National Park Service at https://www.nps.gov/yell/contacts.htm
If running late for a program, please contact 406-848-9128.
General Information: For general information about the facilities, preparation for classes, what to expect, cancellation policies, and more, please see the Lamar Buffalo Ranch – Winter General Information document.
BOOK THIS FIELD SEMINAR NOW
Valerie Bayer & Kathy Settevendemie
Valerie Bayer is certified as both a master naturalist and nature journal educator. She believes people gain a deeper connection with nature when journaling observations and reflections. Valerie has maintained her nature journaling practice since 2008 and has taught adults and youth throughout Montana and Wyoming. She recognizes Yellowstone National Park as an outstanding landscape to study all year round with journal in hand.
Kathy Settevendemie is a longtime arts educator and an avid nature journaler. She promotes connection with nature through observation and curiosity. Her focus is on teaching the arts, especially watercolor and the flora of Montana.
Yellowstone nature journal