Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris
Yellowstone in Winter: A Snowy Wonderland of Wildlife and Geysers
Yellowstone National Park cast its wintry spell on a small group of travelers during Cheesemans’ nine-day photographic safari in early 2025. Blanketed in snow and silence, the park’s dramatic geothermal features and iconic wildlife took center stage. Led by professional wildlife photographer Scott Davis, guests ventured through steaming geyser basins, frosted valleys, and snow-covered forests, capturing unforgettable scenes of bison, foxes, elk, and, with patience and luck, wild wolves. With every step and shutter click, the group experienced Yellowstone’s rare solitude and the stark beauty that only winter can unveil.
🏞️ Trip Highlights
From the haunting howls of wolves echoing through Lamar Valley to the ethereal steam rising from vibrant geothermal pools, every day in Yellowstone delivered unforgettable moments. With expert guidance, intimate group size, and immersive access via snowcoach, this winter safari offered extraordinary opportunities for wildlife encounters and stunning photography.
Highlights Included:
- 🐺 Spotted gray wolves, red foxes, coyotes, and bison thriving in their natural winter habitat
- 🌋 Photographed iconic geothermal features, including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and bubbling mud pots
- 📸 Refined photography skills with guidance from expert wildlife photographer Scott Davis
- 🚌 Explored Yellowstone’s remote interior by private snowcoach, away from winter crowds
- ❄️ Captured dramatic winter landscapes featuring frozen waterfalls, steaming valleys, and frost-covered wildlife
- 🔭 Enjoyed wildlife encounters in Lamar and Hayden Valleys, two of Yellowstone’s best areas for winter viewing
Welcome to the Winter Wild
Guests touched down in Bozeman, Montana, where snow-covered mountains framed the skyline and the crisp winter air signaled the start of an adventure. After settling into their hotel, travelers met their expert guide, renowned wildlife photographer Scott Davis, and the rest of the group. Excitement built as everyone gathered to discuss the journey ahead into one of the most unique and untamed winter landscapes on Earth.
Into the Icebound Frontier
The group departed Bozeman, journeying south along the frozen Yellowstone River and into the park’s northern range. Along the way, they encountered bighorn sheep perched on snowy cliffs, herds of elk crossing the open fields, and pronghorn navigating the winter terrain. Upon arrival at Mammoth Hot Springs, guests were awestruck by the surreal scene—billowing steam rising from mineral terraces that glowed with pale hues against the snow, setting the tone for a week of contrasts and natural wonders.
Wolves and Wonder in Lamar Valley
The day was dedicated to Lamar Valley, a wildlife-rich haven often called the “American Serengeti.” With scopes and long lenses ready, the group observed bison forging paths through deep snow, red foxes leaping after prey, and bald eagles soaring overhead. They patiently scanned the ridges and open flats, eventually rewarded by the eerie, unforgettable sound of wolves howling in the distance. It was a day filled with anticipation, awe, and rare glimpses into Yellowstone’s most elusive winter residents.
Snowcoach Safari to Yellowstone’s Heart
Leaving the northern range behind, guests boarded a private snowcoach—one of the only ways to access Yellowstone’s interior during winter. As they moved deeper into the park, the scenery transformed into a vast, snow-blanketed wilderness. In Hayden Valley, wildlife dotted the landscape: Trumpeter Swans glided across ice-edged rivers, coyotes trotted through meadows, and solitary bison stood like statues against the backdrop of frosted pines. Every turn revealed a new photographic opportunity in this pristine, frozen frontier.
Geysers Aglow in a Frozen Realm
Based near Old Faithful, guests explored the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone’s core. They captured the dramatic eruptions of Old Faithful, with steam rising into cold air and cascading down as glittering “geyser rain.” Guided walks along the boardwalks brought them to bubbling mud pots, roaring fumaroles, and vibrant hot springs like the Grand Prismatic, whose colors burned brightly even through the icy mist. Early morning light created magical scenes as sunbeams filtered through steam, casting long shadows and illuminating the crystalline frost.
Return Through a Living Snow Globe
After one last peaceful morning walk among geysers, the group began their journey back to Mammoth Hot Springs by snowcoach. The return trip was far from ordinary—guests stopped often to photograph waterfalls frozen in time, rugged cliffs softened by snow, and the wildlife that continued to thrive in Yellowstone’s deepest winter. The park’s geothermal landscapes felt otherworldly, making this day a reflective and richly visual end to their time in the park’s interior.
Farewell to the Wild North
Returning to Lamar Valley one final time, the group embraced the quiet thrill of winter wildlife viewing. They scanned the snowy terrain for one last wolf sighting, spotted playful otters along icy creeks, and listened to the sounds of trumpeter swans echoing through the valley. The group gathered for a warm and heartfelt farewell dinner in Livingstone, before returning to Bozeman, reminiscing on moments from an extraordinary week in the wild..
Depart with Memories Etched in Snow
With gear packed and hearts full, travelers said goodbye to Yellowstone’s stunning winter landscapes. They departed Bozeman carrying not only breathtaking images but also a deeper appreciation for the raw beauty and resilience of the natural world in its most elemental season.
📅 Join Us for Yellowstone in January 2026!
Experience Yellowstone’s quietest, wildest season for yourself. On our next winter safari, you’ll explore this iconic park in the peaceful stillness of snow-covered landscapes, photograph incredible wildlife, and journey deep into geyser country with expert guides.