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 in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. These world-renowned parks offer incredible opportunities to photograph dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Fall brings fewer crowds, vibrant scenery, and peak wildlife activity, making it an ideal time for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

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

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 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 in Grand Teton brings rich color to the landscape, with golden foliage set against towering peaks. We’ll photograph mountain vistas, their reflections in the water, and the dramatic scenery that defines 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 (1 space left)
OR
September 19-26, 2027 (3 spaces left)

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 on-site if you fly in the night before (recommended).

Departure
Jackson, Wyoming Airport (JAC) is where you would fly out after 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.

GROUP SIZE
Our group size is limited to eight people with two leaders. That is a 4-to-1 ratio between participants and leaders, which provides more personal one-on-one instruction.

ITINERARY

Day 1: We will meet in the hotel lobby in the late morning for introductions and an overview of the week ahead. From there, we’ll begin our drive to Gardiner, stopping for lunch along the way. The route takes us through Paradise Valley, a photogenic stretch just outside Yellowstone, where we’ll pause for landscape and wildlife photography.

Upon arrival in Gardiner, we’ll check into our hotel, then head back out into the park for an afternoon of photography before gathering for dinner.

Days 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 into our next hotel in Jackson Hole. The hotel is within walking distance of many shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Days 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.

PRICE INCLUDES

• Lodging (7-night stay). 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, 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 food tab.

• Air travel is not included.

PRICE
2025: $6395 per person
2027: $7495 per person

Deposit: $1000 per person (this reserves your spot). Balance: Due six months before the tour begins. Single Room Upgrade: $350 (this will give you a private room).

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

Cancellation Policy:

Testimonials:

John Slonina (Leader)
John Slonina is a professional nature photographer with decades of experience and has been leading photo tours to Yellowstone and Grand Teton for many years. During the workshop, you will learn photography techniques and gain insights into the natural world, deepening your appreciation of nature and helping you become a better photographer.

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