Autumn Splendor of Yellowstone and Grand Teton
We offer several photo tours and workshops in both Yellowstone and Grand Teton, with trips available during the stunning fall season as well as the magical winter months. While this article focuses on the breathtaking beauty of the parks in autumn, both seasons offer unique experiences for photographers.
See below for a list of our Yellowstone and Grand Teton photo tours and workshops.
Fall color at Oxbow Bend, Grand Teton National Park
There is something magical about Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks in the fall. It is rut season for elk, and their haunting bugles echo through the crisp morning air—a call of wild energy and raw beauty. The drama of the rut is just one part of what makes these parks so captivating this time of year. With fewer crowds, stunning fall colors, and wildlife preparing for winter, autumn offers photographers a truly special experience.
Aspen Grove, Yellowstone National Park
Fall’s Stunning Colors
The fall foliage in Yellowstone and Grand Teton is breathtaking. Aspens shimmer in golden hues, cottonwoods glow along the riverbanks, and low shrubs add vibrant pops of red to the landscape. One of the best places to witness this is Oxbow Bend in Grand Teton, where the colorful leaves reflect in the Snake River, creating a perfect mirror image of the Tetons. At Schabacher’s Landing, the water also reflects the brilliant aspens and mountains, offering another opportunity to capture the essence of fall. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a moose standing in the water, framed by the towering peaks as a breathtaking backdrop.
In Yellowstone, valleys like Lamar and Hayden are wide open canvases of color, where golden grasses and changing leaves create a beautiful contrast against the rugged terrain and steaming geysers. The light during this season is softer, adding a warm glow to everything.
Waterfalls of Yellowstone
Left: Lower Yellowstone River Falls. Right: Tower Falls, Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone’s waterfalls are particularly striking in the fall. Without the summer crowds, you’ll have a better chance to enjoy their beauty in peace. The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, at 308 feet, are the park’s most iconic—and they’re framed by the vibrant colors of the canyon walls and surrounding trees.
Another beautiful waterfall to visit is Gibbon Falls, a picturesque 84-foot cascade just off the road to Norris Geyser Basin. The surrounding forest and fall foliage create a stunning backdrop for this elegant waterfall, making it a must-see spot for photographers.
And don’t miss Tower Fall, where a 132-foot drop is accentuated by the tall rock spires that give it its name.
The Drama of the Fall Rut
Bugling Bull Elk
The rut during the fall in Yellowstone and Grand Teton is an unforgettable spectacle of wildlife behavior. The haunting sounds of elk bugling echo through the foggy mornings, creating an ethereal experience. Elk and moose engage in dramatic displays as males compete for dominance and the attention of females. In Yellowstone, the Mammoth area is a prime location to witness bull elk bugling and sparring, while in Grand Teton, moose are often seen along the Snake River or in willow thickets, showcasing their impressive antlers. To capture great photos, use a zoom lens to maintain a safe distance while getting close-up shots of the action. Look for early morning or late afternoon light to enhance the atmosphere, and be patient—these dynamic moments are worth the wait.
Wildlife in Action
Top: American Pika. Right: Great Gray Owl. Bottom: Bison
Autumn in Yellowstone and Grand Teton is a season of action, as wildlife prepares for the challenges of winter. In Mammoth, bull elk can often be seen bugling or sparring, adding to the drama of the season. Coyotes, often seen in open meadows or along trails, add to the excitement. You may also spot grizzly and black bears foraging as they prepare for hibernation. Bison also have a rut season, but it occurs earlier in the year, typically from late July to early August. By the fall, bison have usually completed their rutting activities and are focused on grazing in grasslands. Pronghorn streak across the plains with incredible speed. Lamar Valley is also a prime location for spotting wolves, offering a rare glimpse into their natural behavior.
One of the cutest critters to watch is the American pika. These tiny, rabbit-like animals are busy gathering hay and grasses to store for the long winter ahead. Found in talus slopes, pikas can be tricky to photograph due to their quick movements, but their charm makes the effort worthwhile.
Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting migrating raptors, including bald and golden eagles, soaring against the autumn skies. Those interested in waterfowl will be able to see harlequin ducks, American wigeons, mallards, and buffleheads, among others. There’s even a chance of spotting a Great Gray Owl, often seen perched among golden foliage.
Bull Moose, Grand Teton National Park
And don’t forget the moose, often seen in Grand Teton’s willow thickets or along the Snake River. With their massive antlers and stately presence, they are a favorite subject for photographers, especially when framed against the stunning fall landscapes.
Fewer People, More Peace
One of the best things about visiting in the fall? Fewer people. The summer hustle fades as kids go back to school and temperatures start to drop. You’ll have iconic spots like Jenny Lake or Old Faithful almost to yourself during the quieter mornings or late afternoons.
With fewer distractions, you can slow down, enjoy your surroundings, and really connect with the environment.
A Few Tips for Fall Photography
Catch the Colors: Fall colors usually peak from late September to early October, but this varies each year. Keep an eye on foliage reports to time your visit.
Pack Smart: Bring both a wide-angle lens and a zoom lens for both landscapes and wildlife, and don’t forget a tripod for stable shots in low light. Layers are a must—mornings are cold, and afternoons can still warm up. Be sure to pack plenty of memory cards to capture all the breathtaking moments—whether it’s the elk rut, stunning fall landscapes, or wildlife in action.
Respect Nature: Give wildlife space, follow park rules, and leave no trace. A long lens is not only a great tool but also a safe way to capture amazing wildlife shots.