Backcountry Journeys 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
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 me 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. Russ has spent years exploring the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and his 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 there is usually a good mix of storm activity which can make for excellent photography conditions. Join me 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
Noteworthy Travel Logistics This trip begins & ends in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Homewood Suites by Hilton Jackson 260 N Millward Jackson, Wyoming 83001 USA Phone: +1-307-739-0808 You can arrive at any time on the first day of the tour as long as you arrive in time for the 6 pm orientation meeting that evening. We should be back in Jackson Hole around 9 am on the last day of the tour.
Transportation On-Tour When you arrive in Jackson Hole just call the Homewood Suites (307) 739-0808. 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. Pre & Post-Trip Recommended Lodging If you are arriving early or want to spend more time in Jackson Hole after the trip we recommend Homewood Suites Jackson. 260 N Millward St, Jackson, WY 83001 (307)-739-0808 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 or fill out the contact form below! Day 1 Standard Itinerary, and Hiker Itinerary Arrive in Jackson Hole, Wyoming by 6 pm 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 2 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.
Day 3 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 towards Yellowstone. 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. 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 making the drive up through Grand Teton National Park towards Yellowstone. This evening we will photograph Geyser Hill as well as Old Faithful and visit the historic Old Faithful Lodge. Day 4 Hiker Itinerary: Hiking mileage: 4-7 miles, 200 ft elevation gain, and loss 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 5 Hiker Itinerary: Hiking mileage 5.4 miles minimal elevation gain, and loss Today we ll hike to Lone Star Geyser and catch one of it s impressive eruptions! We will spend time searching for wildlife in Lamar Valley on our way through the Northern Range. We ll spend the night in historic Cooke City, Montana which will give us ample access to the wildlife in Lamar. Standard Itinerary We will spend time searching for wildlife in Lamar Valley on our way through the Northern Range. We ll spend the night in historic Cooke City, Montana which will give us ample access to the wildlife in Lamar. Day 6 Hiker Itinerary: Hiking mileage: 1-3 miles, 300 feet elevation gain and loss This morning we will rise early in search of wildlife then visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. We will photograph the falls from many angles. We will take a siesta and then head to Hayden Valley for wildlife viewing this evening.
Standard Itinerary: This morning we will rise early in search of wildlife then visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. We will take a siesta and then head to Hayden Valley for wildlife viewing this evening. Day 7 Standard Itinerary, and Hiker Itinerary We ll do some wildlife viewing in the morning before making our way back towards Grand Teton National Park. We ll celebrate a fantastic trip in downtown Jackson Hole on our last night. Day 8 Standard Itinerary, and Hiker Itinerary We will do one more morning shoot of the Teton Range before saying good-bye. The trip will conclude at 9 am and flights home out of Jackson Hole can reasonably be arranged any time after 11am. After the trip we can deliver you right to the airport if you want! Please note: that 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.
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 15-30 lbs
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 6 pm on day 1 in the lobby of our hotel: Homewood Suites, Jackson Hole Trip Conclusion Jackson hole, Wyoming at approximately 9 am. We can either drop you off directly at the airport or anywhere in Jackson Hole at approximately 9 am on day eight. Price/Start Dates Yellowstone and Grand Teton in Autumn Pre and Post Trip Recommended lodging Homewood Suites Jackson Hole Accommodation We will be staying in West Yellowstone as well as the quaint mountain towns of Cooke City, Montana and Jackson Hole, Wyoming. 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 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 1 through the morning of day 8, professional photography instruction, park entrance fees, medically certified wilderness guide. Price Does Not Include Airfare, alcoholic beverages, accommodations before or after the trip dates, one meal on your own, souvenirs, guide & staff gratuities (industry standard is typically 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience) 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 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. 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. While hiking your clothing is a system of layers that you add and subtract according to the weather and temperature. My personal clothing preference while hiking is to wear a pair of good synthetic Smartwool type socks under sturdy boots. I wear light-weight nylon pants that convert into shorts (no long johns while on the trail), a polypro shirt and either a sunhat or warm hat depending on the weather. As weather conditions change I add insulating and waterproof
layers to my 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 for Yellowstone & Grand Teton 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. Required Camera Gear: DSLR or Mirrorless Camera. (Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic etc.) Long fixed telephoto lens: 500mm or 600mm Medium telephoto zoom lens (100 400mm zoom or equivalent) Normal Lens (50mm or equivalent zoom) Wide-angle lens (10-20mm, 16-35mm or equivalent zoom) Sturdy but lightweight Tripod (must be able to carry this for hikes) Memory Cards Batteries, batteries, batteries (enough said?) Battery 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 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 underwear Headlamp Gaiters (optional) Hiker Itinerary Shooting Gloves Pocket knife (optional) Hiker Itinerary Binoculars (optional) Trekking poles (optional) Hiker Itinerary Prescription medication Sunscreen Bug spray Knee pads (for low-angle shooting) Personal toiletries
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. Registration To book your reservation with Backcountry Journeys a deposit is required for each person on a trip. Depending on the trip, deposits are usually 30%-50% of the trip cost. All our trips can be reserved using our secure online registration form. If booking within 120 days of departure full payment is required in order to make a reservation. Please note: Your final balance will automatically be charged to the card you used to initially book the trip 120 days prior to the departure date. We will send a reminder email a few weeks out. If paying via check, money order, wire-transfer or Paypal we will send a payment reminder before the 120 day due date. If you are booking within 120 days your final balance will automatically be charged to your credit or debit card within 7 days of making this reservation. Payments, Cancellations & Refund Policy All prices are quoted in US dollars and all payments must be paid in US dollars. For deposits we accept Visa, MasterCard and PayPal. Final payment of the trip fee is due 120 days prior to departure. Trip deposits are non-refundable. Acceptance of any participant is subject to receipt and review of all required forms, documents, and payment.
We must receive written notice of your cancellation, at which time cancellation fees in the following amounts apply: 121 or more days prior to departure: 100% of deposit plus a per person $100 administration fee 120 days or fewer prior to departure: 100% of trip fee No partial refunds are made for unused portions or services of a trip for any reason whatsoever. Trips are sold as a package only. All our Workshops & Tours are subject to the realities of the natural world. Although we will do everything in our power to stay on itinerary, circumstances including but not limited to permit availability, snowpack, river crossings, wildlife, park or public land closures, and forest fires can affect our itineraries. The price and duration of a trip will never change once you are registered. Payments are not refundable for any itinerary change. Backcountry Journeys reserves the right to cancel trips. If this is the case a full refund of the amount paid will be given, including the deposit. Backcountry Journeys is not responsible for additional expenses incurred preparing for the trip (for example: non-refundable advance purchase air tickets, clothing, equipment, visa fees, medical expenses, etc.). Transfer Policy If you transfer from one trip to another: 121 or more days prior to the trip start date, there is a $50 administration fee. Less than 120 days prior to the trip start date, regular cancellation and refund policies will apply. Travel Insurance Sometimes life happens, and you must cancel because of unforeseen circumstances. We highly recommend protecting your travel investment and purchasing a trip insurance policy that includes emergency evacuation coverage. Travel insurance provides you with trip cancellation/interruption, travel delay, medical expenses, emergency assistance, air flight, baggage and baggage delay coverages. Medical
coverage purchased with your policy is crucial and required if you do not have health insurance. Please note that Backcountry Journeys does not recommend or endorse any particular plan or insurance company as everyone has different insurance requirements. You will likely find several good options for travel insurance plans over at www.insuremytrip.com. Our Promise Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours & Workshops offer you a seamless adventure travel experience where we handle the details so you can focus on photography. Our world-class service and small groups allow for a personalized experience that allows you plenty of one on one time with your instructor. Joining a Backcountry Journeys Photography Tour is embarking on the trip of lifetime. Really. All our locations are hand selected by myself (Russ Nordstrand) to provide you with unique one of a kind photographic experiences. It s like no other kind of Journey. Our trips give you more time in the field to work on your photography as we ve got the logistics handled. We focus on the quality of the experience and the photography.
Backcountry Journeys is set apart by our commitment to offer the finest outdoor photography travel experience in the industry. What does that mean? It means we are dedicated to bringing you an unsurpassed travel experience with impeccable attention to detail. We ve got you covered from the moment you first contact us, to our fine-tuned photographic itineraries, the excellent lodging we select for our trips and our goal of ensuring you are at the right place at the right time. We re in the business of making it easy for you. The intentional decision to remain a small independent business with a focus on being the best means that our trips grow more cohesive each year. It means we don t cut corners and our service remains world-class as an owner operated business. When you reserve a trip with Backcountry Journeys you know you re purchasing quality as you know the level of effort, care and attention to detail poured into every Tour & Workshop. After all, our reputation is our most important asset and our consistency in delivering amazing experiences speaks volumes as our guests return year after year to photograph new & different locations. Backcountry Journeys is in the business of providing not just Photography Tours but vacations where you will leave with memories that will last a lifetime. Sincerely, Russ Nordstrand