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.

DAY 2

First Light: Wildlife in Winter Wonderland

Our first full day in the field begins with sunrise in Lamar Valley, where bison, elk, and the possibility of wolves set the tone for our Yellowstone adventure. We’ll ease into winter wildlife photography with tips on composition, light, and ethical field practices, while encouraging group connection and building confidence in the field. The day concludes with a casual group debrief and gear check to prepare for the days ahead.

DAY 3

Following Tracks, Finding Wildlife

Today we’ll dive deeper into finding and photographing Yellowstone’s winter wildlife, building on what we learned on Day 2. We’ll spend the day exploring likely habitats and reading the landscape for fresh activity, with a focus on improving composition and timing in the field.

DAY 4

Final Frames: Capturing the Story

On our final day in the field, we’ll revisit key locations or explore new ones based on group interest and wildlife activity. The focus will be on slowing down, refining technique, and capturing meaningful moments that tell the story of Yellowstone in winter. We’ll end the day with time to reflect on growth, share favorite images, and wrap up with a Q&A on next steps for wildlife photography.

PROGRAM END

Dates & Times: The program begins at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025, and goes through Sunday, December 14, 2025,
at 5:00 p.m.

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 Gardiner – 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.

• DSLR or mirrorless camera systems, with longer focal length lenses, like 400mm or greater, and a wide lens choice for choice.
• Multiple memory cards, they fill up quickly.
• Support, such as a tripod or monopod.
• A battery backup (fully charged).
• A cleaning kit for unexpected emergencies.

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 Gardiner – Winter General Information document.