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Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 1
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn
“There is a delight in the hardy life of the open. There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy and its charm. The nation behaves well if it treats the
natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased and not impaired in value. Conservation means
development as much as it does protection.”
- Theodore Roosevelt
Pricing, Dates & Booking
For current pricing, trip dates
& online reservations please
see our website.
Trip Packets
Our PDF Trip Packets are being
updated all the time. Ensure you
have the most recent version by
clicking here.
Last Published: April 9, 2020
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 2
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Trip Overview
As the leaves begin to change and the air temperatures drop below
freezing at night – the greater Yellowstone Region comes to life in a
kaleidoscope of colors. Join us for an incredible eight-day lodge-based
photography tour of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
during the Autumn months. Crowds are gone at this point, many
species of wildlife become very active as they move from the
surrounding mountains into Yellowstone’s lower Northern Range and
Teton Valley. This is really a great time to photograph the adjoining
National Parks.
Each day we will arise early to seek out wildlife such as Wolves, Bears,
Bighorn sheep, Bison, Moose & Elk. We have spent years exploring the
Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and our professional instructors will
show you some of the best and lesser known spots to photograph
wildlife as well as breathtaking landscapes.
We will explore the better-known spots such as Old Faithful, Oxbow
Bend and Artists Point as well as some lesser known locales that are off
the beaten path. Did I mention the tourists are mostly gone this time of
year!? Fall is such a wonderful time in the Northern Rockies – there is a
chilly bite to the morning air when the hot steam from Thermal
Features appears more evident and the autumn colors begin to brighten
the landscape with their foliage. Days are typically still warm although
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 3
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
there is usually a good mix of storm activity which can make for
excellent photography conditions.
Join us this year for a Photography Tour of Yellowstone & Grand Teton
in the Autumn months!
Highlights
• Two of America’s most iconic National Parks in one trip!
• Photograph newborn wildlife
• Bears, Coyotes, Moose, Elk, Bald Eagles & possibly Wolves
• Photograph iconic spots such as Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic &
the Tetons
• Cozy lodges
• Learn from & shoot alongside a seasoned pro
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 4
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Noteworthy Travel Logistics
• This trip begins & ends in Bozeman, Montana.
Hilton Garden Inn*
Address: 2023 Commerce Way, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 582-9900
*Please note: Exact hotel is subject to change - equivalent hotel may be substituted.
If you are planning on arriving early or staying late please contact us.
• You can arrive at any time on Day One of the tour as long as you
arrive in time for the 5pm orientation meeting that evening.
• When you arrive in Bozeman just call the Hilton Garden Inn (406)
582-9900. If you are using their complementary airport
transportation please contact them at least 24 hours before your
arrival to arrange your shuttle pickup, the shuttle is available
between 7 am and 11 pm.
• We should be back in Bozeman around 12pm on the last day of the
tour.
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 5
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Itinerary Please note: We offer both a “standard” and “hiker” version of this trip
for photographers who like to get out and hike! Not sure which one suits
you best? Give us a call at 928-478-1521.
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day One (Travel Day)(D)
“Standard” Itinerary, and “Hiker” Itinerary
Arrive in Bozeman, Montana by 5pm for a trip orientation as well as a
fantastic meet and greet dinner. We’ll go over camera gear and
itinerary. Our hotel has a complimentary airport shuttle.
Day Two (B,L,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: Hiking mileage 5.4 miles minimal elevation gain
This morning we will make our way down through Mammoth Hot
Springs en route to a hike to Lone Star Geyser. Along the way we will
search for wildlife. Lone Star Geyser is one of the most unique features
in Yellowstone and has spectacular, fairly predictable eruptions.
“Standard” Itinerary This morning we will explore Mammoth Hot Springs and search for
wildlife along Yellowstone’s Northern Range. There are ample
opportunities for fantastic wildlife and landscape images along the
Gibbon River and the in upper Geyser Basins.
This evening we will photograph Geyser Hill where (time permitting)
we will walk the boardwalk and attempt to catch a lesser known geyser
eruption. We will visit the historic Old Faithful Lodge as well as the
famous Old Faithful Geyser itself.
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 6
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Day Three (B,L,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: Hiking mileage: 4-7 miles, 200 ft elevation gain
Our morning shoot will be at Grand Prismatic and the Midway Geyser
Basin. We’ll have an opportunity to photograph several different
geothermal areas including Black Sand Basin and the Fountain Paint
Pots. Today we will do a hike out to an impressive Geyser Field and a
beautiful mountain waterfall. This evening we will explore the Firehole
and Madison River areas looking for wildlife.
“Standard” Itinerary: Total walking about 1.5 miles in short stints
along boardwalks.
Our morning shoot will be at Grand Prismatic and the Midway Geyser
Basin. We’ll have an opportunity to photograph several different
geothermal areas including Black Sand Basin and the Fountain Paint
Pots. This evening we will explore the Firehole and Madison River
areas looking for wildlife.
Day Four (B,L,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: Hiking mileage: 1-3 miles, 300 feet elevation gain
This morning we will rise early in search of wildlife then visit the
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. We will photograph Yellowstone’s
lower falls from many angles. There are several shorts hikes that we
can attempt in the canyon area. On our way to the Tetons we will
explore Hayden Valley for wildlife viewing and then make our way past
Lake Yellowstone.
This evening we will setup for some dramating back-lighting and the
sun sets behind the Teton Range! After dark we will settle into our
accommodations and go out for a fantastic dinner in Jackson Hole!
Standard” Itinerary:
This morning we will rise early in search of wildlife then visit the
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. We will explore Hayden Valley for
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 7
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
wildlife viewing and then make our way to Grand Teton National Park
for our evening shoot.
This evening we will setup for some dramating back-lighting and the
sun sets behind the Teton Range! After dark we will settle into our
accommodations and go out for a fantastic dinner in Jackson Hole!
Day Five (B,D)
“Standard” Itinerary, and “Hiker” Itinerary
This morning we will arise early as we set out to photograph the Teton
Range before sunrise at one of the iconic locations. Later we’ll grab
breakfast in town and then cruise for wildlife.
We’ll take a midday break to rest and go over photos and then head
back into Grand Teton National Park for more wildlife and mountain
photography this evening.
Day Six (B,L,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: Hiking mileage: 2-4 miles, minimal elevation gain
We’ll arise early again to photograph the Tetons from another location
before heading back to our lodge, grabbing a quick breakfast and then
making the drive up through Grand Teton National Park back towards
Yellowstone. We’ll hike one of the geyser basins en-route and then settle
in to our accommodations in Gardiner, Montana for the evening.
This evening we’ll have a great dinner in town and then head out for
wildlife photography along the Blacktail Plateau.
“Standard” Itinerary:
We’ll arise early again to photograph the Tetons from another location
before heading back to our lodge, grabbing a quick breakfast and then
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 8
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
making the drive up through Grand Teton National Park towards
Yellowstone.
This evening we’ll have a great dinner in town and then head out for
wildlife photography along the Blacktail Plateau.
Day Seven (B,D)
“Standard” Itinerary
This morning we will arise early as we set out to photograph wildlife
along the Blacktail Plateau and in Lamar Valley before sunrise at one
of the iconic locations. We’ll spend the day exploring the “American
Serengeti” as we look for Wolves, Bison, Coyote, Big Horn Sheep,
Pronghorn & more.
We’ll take a midday break to go over our images and get some rest and
then once the light is good again we’ll head right back out! Today is a
wildlife bonanza!
“Hiker” Itinerary This morning we will arise early as we set out to photograph wildlife
along the Blacktail Plateau and in Lamar Valley before sunrise at one
of the iconic locations. We’ll spend the day exploring the “American
Serengeti” as we look for Wolves, Bison, Coyote, Big Horn Sheep,
Pronghorn & more.
Our hike today will take us up towards Tower Falls on Dunraven Pass
which is closed in early spring. This is a great place to view and
photograph Black Bears as well as other wildlife including Owls,
Bighorn Sheep etc.
We’ll take a midday break to go over our images and get some rest and
then once the light is good again we’ll head right back out! Today is a
wildlife bonanza!
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 9
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Day Eight (B)
We will do one more morning wildlife shoot through Lamar Valley
before saying good-bye. We will be back in Bozeman, MT by 12pm for
flights home. After the trip we can deliver you right to the airport if you
want!
Please note: The exact sequence of the itineraries on all
photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions.
The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at
the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries
can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods,
forest fires, national park closures, road closures and more. Due to
the nature of wildlife and nature photography we do not guarantee
any specific sightings or specific compositions regarding wildlife or
natural phenomena.
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 10
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Trip Details
Physical Requirements
All participants must be in good physical condition and have the ability
to hike/walk with camera equipment and essential hiking gear. For
example, tripod, camera, lense(s), sunscreen, water (up to 2 liters
person), snacks, and extra layers (if necessary). The weight of your pack
largely depends on what gear you choose to bring on each hike.
Typically backpacks weigh between 15 and 20 lbs. For those serious
photography buffs packs could reach 35 lbs! But remember the choice is
yours
Solely for the “Hiker” Itinerary of our tour participants must also be
able to hike several miles each day between 2 and 8 miles per day for
several days in a row. These hikes will be on some trails with uneven
and occasionally steep terrain.
Group Size
We keep groups small to maximize your one on one time with the
guide/instructor.
Accommodation
We will be staying in West Yellowstone as well as in the quaint
mountain towns of Cooke City, Montana and Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Trip length
8 days
Mileage
“Hiker” Itinerary: Approximately 10-18 miles for the duration of the
trip.
“Standard” Itinerary: approximately 3 miles along boardwalks and
sidewalks for the duration of the trip.
Pack Weight
15-30lbs
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 11
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Fitness Level
Hiker” Itinerary: Moderate hikes from 3-7 miles per day on uneven,
and occasionally steep terrain.
“Standard” Itinerary: Approximately 3 miles along boardwalks and
sidewalks for the duration of the trip.
Meeting Time and Place
5pm on Day One in the lobby of our arrival hotel
Trip Conclusion
Bozeman, Montana at approximately 12 pm. We can either drop you off
directly at the airport or anywhere in Bozeman.
Price/Start Dates
Yellowstone and Grand Teton in Autumn
Meals
Most meals are included during the trip dates and we typically eat
at handpicked local restaurants. We often eat snacks and prepare lunch
on the trail. We typically return for a late breakfast, or eat breakfast on
the road during photography trips as we are often out early to capture
the morning light. There will be one evening with dinner on your own.
Weather
Expect warm pleasant days with cold mornings and nights. The
weather can prove unpredictable in the Northern Rockies and can
change on a moment’s notice. Remember some of the best photographs
are made before, during and immediately after a storm cycle. There is
no such thing as bad weather just poor layering and gear choices –
please plan accordingly! Make sure you are prepared for rain and snow!
General Links to Weather Conditions: Teton National Park Weather
Conditions and Old Faithful Yellowstone National Park Weather
Conditions
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 12
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
We recommend checking these weather links prior to your trip
departure to plan your gear and clothing packing accordingly.
Price Includes
Most meals, ground transportation, accommodation during the trip
dates: from the evening of Day One through the morning of Day Eight,
professional photography instruction, park entrance fees, medically
certified wilderness guide, & gratuities for service personnel such as
drivers, pilots, captains as well as hotel & restaurant staff.
Price Does Not Include
Airfare, alcoholic beverages, accommodations before or after the trip
dates, one meal on your own, souvenirs & trip leader gratuities
(industry standard is typically 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience)
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 13
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Conditioning for Photography Trips (For the “hiker”
itinerary only)
“Hiker” Itinerary: We will be hiking between 3-5 miles per day
typically. The better shape you’re in, the more you will enjoy the trip.
Even if you are very athletic, I recommend walking as often as possible
with 15-20 pounds in your backpack, wearing the boots you plan to hike
in. You can alternate this with other cardiovascular & strength
routines. Balance is critical on rough ground. Whatever you can do to
improve your balance will pay big dividends.
Always consult your physician before commencing with a workout
program.
Training by Hiking
The absolute best way to train is by doing the activity you are training
for. If you live where there are trails with
1. Uneven, rocky surfaces
2. Steep terrain
3. And where you can hike several miles
Begin by training with a light backpack and hike at least 3 times/week.
The most difficult part of hiking for most beginners is the terrain with
uneven footing, the next is the steepness or incline of a particular trail
or hike, then the distance. Unless you are already in very good shape it
is best to start training at least 3 months before your trip. If where you
live there are no hills, or steep uneven trails your next best bet would
be walking stairs; for example, hiking up and down stairs will work
muscles used in both uphill and downhill hiking activities. Find a
building with many stories, or a stadium with many steps for your
training ground. Make sure all the while that you use the boots you
plan to bring on the tour during your training.
Next to increase your cardiovascular fitness you will probably need to
implement some cross training, and additional cardio activities into
your training unless you live and train at high altitude already. The
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 14
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
average elevation in Yellowstone is 7,000 Feet!! That is higher than the
mile-high city of Denver, Colorado which is closer to 5,000 feet to put it
in perspective. Cardiovascular fitness, as well as proper pre-hydration
shortly before your trip, drink at least two liters per day as least 3 days
before your trip starts!
Additional Training activities include:
• Bike or walk to commute to work or run errands, carry your work
supplies in a backpack if you are walking. Make time for an afternoon
or morning bike ride. This will help increase your cardiovascular fitness
as well as increase strength and endurance in your legs.
• Join a gym to utilize their classes or equipment. Many gyms have
stair climbers, treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes. All of which
will help with your cardiovascular fitness.
• Swimming is a great way to build endurance and cardiovascular
fitness and is easy on the joints.
• Yoga and/or Pilates classes are the best way to increase your
flexibility and stability, both of which are very important for hiking on
uneven terrain with weight on your back.
• Jogging or running can be great for cardiovascular fitness, however be
careful implementing this activity into your training unless you are
already a runner, or jogger. Running without proper supplemental
training can cause injuries.
Lodging & Meals
Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours include most meals, lodging
from day 1 through the morning of the last day of the tour, ground -
transportation while on the tour, National Park entrance fees, guide
fees and other items essential to a successful trip – meaning that once
your there all you will have to focus on is your photography. We can
accommodate most special diets so please let us know if you have any
dietary restrictions.
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 15
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Gear List
This gear list should answer a lot of your gear questions so please read
through this carefully. If you still have questions, please give us a call.
Your clothing should be a system of layers that you add and subtract
according to the weather and temperature. A good pair of good synthetic
“Smartwool” type socks under sturdy boots works well. Clothing should
be light-weight nylon pants (maybe base-layers), a polypro shirt and
either a sunhat or warm hat depending on the weather. As weather
conditions change add insulating and waterproof layers to your base
setup. Don’t bring any cotton clothing. Cotton is not a good insulator
and once it gets wet it takes forever to dry. Absolutely no jeans!
Photo & Field Gear Please Note: This following is the packing list for the “Standard” and
the “Hiker” Itinerary. If an item specifically pertains only to the Hiker
Itinerary, it will be followed by the words “Hiker” Itinerary. If an item
pertains only to the Standard Itinerary, it will be followed by the words:
“Standard” Itinerary. All other items pertain to both trips.
Recommended Camera Gear: • DSLR or Mirrorless Camera. (Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic etc.) • Telephoto Lenses (ranging from 100-600mm approximately)
• Wide-angle Lens (10-20mm, 16-35mm or equivalent zoom) • Normal Lenses (ranging from approximately 35mm to 100mm)
• Sturdy but lightweight Tripod (must be able to carry this for hikes) • Memory Cards
• Batteries & Chargers
• Filters such as a circular polarizer and neutral density are a must.
• Lens cleaning pen & cloth
• Camera Day Pack (this should appropriately carry all your camera
& hiking gear and have a rain cover)
• Camera Rain Sleeve
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 16
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Optional (but recommended) Camera Gear: • Back-Up Camera Body
• 1.4x tele converter
• Laptop Computer with Lightroom / Photoshop Pre-Installed (for
personal use in hotels for downloading images while on tour)
• External Hard Drives
• Bean bag
• Remote Shutter Trigger
• Camera’s Instruction Manual
Suggested Field Gear & Clothing: • Personal Field Clothing (think layers)
• Warm top, such as a long-sleeved sweater or fleece jacket
• Long pants, or convertible hiking pants, one pair of leggings or
lightweight trousers to block sun and give warmth at night
• Warm Hat & Gloves (This is a Must!)
• Down Jacket (My favorite piece of gear in Yellowstone!)
• “Softshell” Jacket lightly insulated windproof/breathable jacket for
layering and protection from wind
• Long Underwear (synthetic top & bottom)
• Shorts & T-Shirts for on the trail during warmer months
• Hiking Socks (Smartwool, Darn Tough etc.)
• Brimmed Sun Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sturdy Hiking Boots “Hiker” Itinerary
• Good walking or tennis shoes “Standard” Itinerary
• Casual wear, for your evenings off the trail
• Water Bottle or Hydration System (2 liters)
• Rain shell, waterproof/breathable jacket
• Rain Pants
• Headlamp
• Gaiters (optional) “Hiker” Itinerary
• Shooting Gloves
• Pocket knife (optional) “Hiker” Itinerary
• Binoculars (optional) • Trekking poles (optional) “Hiker” Itinerary
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
Backcountry Journeys – Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Autumn 17
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
• Knee pads (for low-angle shooting)
• Personal toiletries, medication etc.
• Money, for tipping your guide (industry standard is generally 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience) and for any
personal expenses not included in the tour package such as alcoholic
beverages, a few of the meals, souvenirs, etc.
This is a general list. Please Call with any questions!
Note on Packing for the tour:
Please pack your extra clothing, toiletries, extra camera gear, and other travel items into a suitcase, duffel or travel bag. You will not bring all your camera gear on every hike or outing. Each evening you will be briefed on which lenses, filters, etc. you will need to carry the following day on the scheduled tour or hike.