Yellowstone in winter is like nowhere else on Earth. Snow softens the valleys, steam rises from geysers, and the usual crowds are gone—leaving the park’s iconic wildlife as the main attraction. Bison plow through drifts with frosted beards, wolves pad across the Lamar Valley, otters slip between icy banks, and eagles soar against crisp blue skies. Every turn of the road offers another moment waiting to be captured. Your two expedition leaders will work to get you to the right place at the right time. Then, with a little luck, the magic will happen.
This 6-day expedition takes you deep into Yellowstone’s Northern Range, the only part of the park open to vehicles year-round. Your base of exploration isThe Roaming Bison—a custom-built safari van designed for photographers. With a pop-top roof and moveable seating that transforms the interior into a mobile blind, it allows access to Yellowstone’s winter magic while keeping you comfortable in the cold. You’ll still be able to photograph outside the vehicle in areas that are accessible to foot traffic, but this unique vehicle will make it possible for you to get images others can’t. Adding to the adventure, you’ll spend a full day inside the park’s snow-blanketed interior on a private snowcoach, giving you rare access to geothermal landscapes and wildlife most visitors never see in winter.
With a small group size, unhurried pacing, and expert guidance by two leaders, this trip is crafted to maximize your photographic opportunities while keeping the experience intimate. Whether you’re focused on capturing the steam rising off a herd of bison at sunrise or waiting patiently for a wolf to emerge from the woods, you’ll have the time, support, and space to create images that do justice to this iconic landscape.
Join us for a winter photography expedition into the heart of Yellowstone—an unforgettable opportunity to see America’s first national park at its wildest and most serene.
Get ready to explore Yellowstone through your lens—and return with images (and memories) that will stay with you for a lifetime. More than just a photography tour, this is a journey that showcases Yellowstone’s rhythm, color, and wild connection in winter.
About Your Expedition Leaders
Cheryl Opperman
Cheryl Opperman is a nationally acclaimed nature photographer who has photographed on all seven continents, capturing unforgettable images of wildlife, natural landscapes, and indigenous cultures. Her work has appeared in The Denver Post, National Geographic Society publications, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
She’s earned top honors from organizations including the International Photography Awards, Nature’s Best Photography, and the National Wildlife Federation. A sought-after educator and keynote speaker, Cheryl leads with passion, patience, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Whether you’re new to photography or a seasoned shooter, her teaching style inspires confidence and creativity.
Hannah Beroske
After earning her bachelor’s degree in wildlife sciences, Hannah quickly ventured west to Yellowstone National Park where the wildlife is abundant. She fell in love with the Park’s natural wonders and surrounding forests. With 5 years’ experience as a wildlife research technician, she has worked with many animals such as wolves, cougars, birds, and more.
Hannah spends most of her time exploring and appreciating everything that nature has to offer. Hannah finds joy in sharing her passions with guests and hopes to facilitate a memorable experience and inspire action. Her local Yellowstone knowledge will surely prove to be a huge asset when exploring together.
ITINERARY
February 17: Tuesday
Arrive by 1 pm to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
Transfer to Gardiner
Check in at Yellowstone River Cottages or similar
Meals: None
February 18-20: Wednesday – Friday
Photography days – Northern Range
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
February 21: Saturday
Private snowcoach tour into park’s interior
Meals: Lunch
February 22: Sunday
Hotel check out
Transfer from Gardiner to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). Plan for departure flights at 1 pm or later today.
Meals: None
DETAILS
Price:$6950* per person based on private accommodations. If you are traveling with someone and prefer a double occupancy room, deduct $325* per person.
Includes: private, single occupancy accommodations; two expedition leaders – Hannah regularly guides in Yellowstone and Cheryl is your photography instructor; round-trip airport transfers between Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and Gardiner; 3 days of transportation in the Roaming Bison Safari Vehicle – Northern Range; 1 private snowcoach day to the park’s interior; entrance fees and permits; meals as listed; snacks for in the field; gratuities for your guides and snowcoach driver; and a conservation donation.
Excludes:flights-the trip starts and ends at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport; travel insurance; dinners and 2 breakfasts; activities not listed; gratuities for hotel staff; and personal items.
*Reflects payment by check or ACH. Credit card fees, if applicable will be assessed at time of booking.
Group Size: 4-5 + 2 Leaders
Level of Difficulty – Moderate: Get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure in Yellowstone’s snow-covered wilderness! February brings crisp, cold conditions with temperatures often ranging from 0°F to 25°F. Snow and ice are part of the experience, so warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and good footwear are essential for comfort.
This trip is designed for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to capture Yellowstone’s most dramatic season. You’ll spend extended periods outdoors in prime locations for landscapes, geothermal features, and wildlife encounters. Scenic drives in our 4WD Roaming Bison van are paired with short walks on snow-packed, uneven terrain to access the best vantage points.
Expect frequent stops, time outside in variable conditions, and getting in and out of a lifted vehicle. The reward? Bison steaming in the cold, wolves traversing the snowy valleys, and geothermal wonders against a frosted backdrop—a photographer’s dream.
