Best of Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Park

I am an Authorized Permittee of the National Parks

Join us for a photo tour or workshop to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Renowned worldwide, these parks offer an exhilarating opportunity to photograph breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. These destinations are an absolute must-visit for any nature photographer and wildlife enthusiast.

Fall is a great time to visit as the summer crowds and traffic jams are gone and wildlife is more abundant. Join us on a remarkable journey as we delve into the wonders of these parks and their enchanting surroundings.

YELLOWSTONE
Landscapes
Yellowstone boasts an impressive collection of geysers and thermal activity. Additionally, the park showcases an array of features including rivers, waterfalls, breathtaking canyons, ponds, springs, and awe-inspiring mountains. During the autumn season, the landscape is further enhanced by the vibrant hues of aspen and cottonwood leaves, showcasing a magnificent display of fall colors.

Wildlife
Our visit coincides with the rutting season, providing an incredible opportunity to capture behaviors such as courtship rituals, territorial displays, and sparring matches. From elk, moose, and deer to pronghorn, coyotes, foxes, bison, and a diverse array of bird species including Trumpeter Swans and Great Gray Owls, there is a variety of subjects to photograph. Wolves, particularly in the Lamar Valley region of Yellowstone, may also make an appearance. Additionally, other commonly photographed species include big-horned sheep, mountain goats, and bears. As winter approaches, mammals will showcase their prime winter fur, as they prepare for the harsh winter season ahead.

GRAND TETON
Landscapes
Autumn unveils the enchanting beauty of Grand Teton as well. The landscape becomes a canvas painted with rich, vibrant colors, creating a beautiful scene for photography. We will capture the magnificent mountain vistas and their reflections, amidst the stunning landscapes that grace the park.

Wildlife
Grand Teton is home to numerous large mammals including mule deer, pronghorn, and moose. Black bears and grizzly bears also inhabit the park. Smaller mammals, such as beavers, otters, and marmots, thrive in the park’s waterways and meadows.

For both parks, our itinerary will revolve around recent wildlife activity, optimal lighting conditions, and favorable weather to ensure that we make the most of the opportunities presented to us. Our primary objective is to witness and capture the breathtaking beauty of these parks.

When:
September 19-26, 2025 (3 spaces left)

The group will meet in Bozeman, MT and leave out of Jackson Hole, WY. There is no need to rent a car.

Note: This tour involves both wildlife and landscape photography. Participants should have a strong interest in both.

Itinerary:

Day 1: 11:30 am: We will meet in Bozeman and go over safety issues, recent wildlife sightings and behavior. We also will discuss plans for the upcoming week.

1:00 pm: Lunch at the half-way point of drive.

We will head to Gardiner, with photo stops along the route through Paradise Valley—a photogenic region situated outside the boundaries of Yellowstone. En route, we will have opportunities to photograph both landscapes and wildlife. We will then check into our hotel in Gardiner.

After check-in we will head out for more photography in Yellowstone followed by dinner.

Day 2-4: We will photograph the incredible wildlife and landscapes of Yellowstone.

Day 5: Check out of the hotel and head south to Grand Teton National Park with several stops along the way.

We will check in to our next hotel in Jackson Hole. The hotel is walking distance to many shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Day 6 and 7: Photograph several beautiful locations throughout Grand Teton National Park.

Day 8: Sunrise shoot then return to the hotel before 10 am in time for check out. We can easily drop people off at the airport. If that time is not convenient, let me know as there are other options.

Skill and Fitness Level Requirements:
Anyone with an interest in photography from beginner to professional.

The participants should have a love of nature and enjoy the company of other people in a small group setting. Participants should be interested in both wildlife and landscape photography.

This trip will involve some short hikes from 1 to 3 miles round trip. Some hikes may have slippery or uneven terrain.

Participants should be in good health and self-sufficient.

Group Size:
Our group size is limited to a small group which is substantially smaller than other tour companies. This will maximize learning and allow us to get closer to wildlife.

Airports:
We use two different airports so we can reach the best areas and get more time in the field.

Arrival
You will fly into Bozeman Airport (BZN) . The hotel has a shuttle from the airport and a restaurant onsite if you fly in the night before (recommended).

Departure
Jackson, Wyoming Airport (JAC) is where you would fly out at the conclusion of the trip. We will offer drop-offs that day.

If you want to stay longer, please contact us and we will give you ideas on where to stay and visit.

What's Included:

• Lodging (7-night stay starting Sept 17). The rooms are double occupancy. If you prefer your own room (single occupancy) it is an additional $350. Please select the Single Room option on the shopping cart. We will be spending four nights in Gardiner, MT and three nights in Jackson WY.

• Gates fees and permits.

• Professional Instruction on photography and wildlife identification and behavior

Not Included:

• Food and drinks. We will visit various restaurants in and out of the park. Each participant will be responsible for their own food tab.

• Air travel is not included.

Price: $6395
Deposit: $1000
Balance Due: 6 months before start date of trip

Payment:
Payment can be made by check to Slonina Photography. We also accept credit cards through our online shopping cart.

Cancellation Policy:

Testimonials:

About Us:
John Slonina (leader), Jenny Bowlden (co-leader)

Two professional nature photographers who have been photographing in greater Yellowstone for several decades. During the workshop, you will receive information on photography techniques and the natural world. Understanding nature not only increases your appreciation of it but also helps you become a better nature photographer.

We hope you can join us at this incredible place! If you have any questions, please contact us.