The Wolves & Wildlife of Yellowstone

Embark upon a thrilling wintertime expedition to Yellowstone National Park for a unique opportunity to witness packs of wolves in their pristine natural habitat. Aboard specially equipped vehicles that allow for both comfort and proximity to incredible wildlife, you’ll have a chance to view wolves, bison, elk, an array of bird species, and other magnificent creatures that call the park home. Visiting Yellowstone in winter is an experience that transcends words. The air is crisp with the scent of pine trees and the promise of adventure. A serene hush envelops the snow-covered landscapes, providing the perfect backdrop to nature’s drama unfolding before your eyes.

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Day-by-Day Itinerary

Full Itinerary

This itinerary may vary due to weather conditions and to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.

Day 1: Arrive in Bozeman, MT
Refresh at the hotel before gathering with fellow travel companions for a special welcome dinner. Meet your Orbridge Expedition Leaders who will be your professional naturalist guides throughout the adventure-filled week ahead.
Overnight: GranTree Inn (D)

Day 2: Bozeman | Paradise Valley | Lamar Valley, WY | Gardiner, MT
Your winter wildlife expedition begins this morning in Paradise Valley. Climb aboard a specially equipped safari vehicle, featuring a roof hatch for enhanced viewing. Venture into this protected river valley flanked by snow-covered ranges to the east and west, where bison, elk, and coyotes are often seen wandering. Stay alert for wolf packs tracking from a distance, as they stay in range of their prey.

Continue to Lamar Valley, known as the Serengeti of North America. This pristine setting is a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts, as it’s teeming with bison, bald eagles, and, of course, elusive wolves. Observe and photograph these creatures in their natural habitat.

Your guides will accompany you on each safari outing, imparting their wisdom and insights about wolves and the intricate ecosystem of this remarkable region.

Tonight before dinner gather with the group for a relaxing wine and cheese reception.
Overnight: Yellowstone Gateway Inn (B,L,R,D)

Day 3: Gardiner | Lamar Valley, WY | Cooke City, MT | Gardiner, MT
Awake for an early morning start.

Today’s full-day safari spans the Northern Range, reaching locations where wolf packs have been spotted. Your guides will share historical perspectives of the wolves’ demise in the park, and their remarkable revival since being reintroduced to the region in the early 1990s. Learn about the packs currently roaming the park, and the social dynamics and complex hierarchical behaviors within family units and between other packs.

This afternoon visit an award-winning photographer at his studio for a tour of his impressive gallery. Be captivated as he recalls thrilling personal wildlife encounters and experiences throughout his career.

Before returning to the hotel, and if weather permits, snowshoe along one of Lamar Valley’s forested ski trails with hopes of spotting and photographing additional wildlife.
Overnight: Yellowstone Gateway Inn (B,L,D)

Day 4: Gardiner | Lamar Valley, WY | Mammoth Hot Springs | Old Faithful
Before first light, take a final drive through the Northern Range before arriving to Mammoth Hot Springs for afternoon exploration.

This unique area of Yellowstone features colorful travertine terraces that create mesmerizing, intricate landscapes. Walk through historic Fort Yellowstone or along the boardwalk above steaming hydrothermal features for an introduction to this section of the park.

Journey aboard special safari snow coaches to reach the iconic Old Faithful geyser, which, to this day, lives up to its name due to the usual predictability of its eruptions.

At the Lower Geyser Basin, discover the three other hydrothermal features of the park: hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.
Overnight: Old Faithful Snow Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 5: Old Faithful | Jackson
This morning watch Old Faithful erupt in a magnificent display of nature’s power and beauty, then set off on a nature walk to the Castle Geyser to explore the Upper Geyser Basin.

Depart the park for a scenic drive to Flagg Ranch, keeping a keen eye open for wildlife across the snow-touched landscape. Mid way, transfer to safari road vehicles for the final stretch to Jackson.

This evening is at leisure to explore Jackson’s acclaimed town square—only a short walk from the hotel. Take advantage of shopping opportunities, diverse dining options, and the festive nightlife.

At the hotel embrace time to unwind from this adventure-filled week. This charming, award-winning property perfectly merges a rustic mountain vibe with luxurious amenities. Warm up by the fire, take a dip in the pool, or relax in the hot tub.
Overnight: The Lexington at Jackson Hole (B,L)

Day 6: Jackson | Grand Teton National Park | National Elk Refuge | Jackson
The final day of this enriching adventure features an exciting animal safari through Grand Teton National Park, providing an opportunity to spot for wildlife roaming through the stunning Teton Range.

Visit the National Elk Refuge—home to an estimated 7,000 elk—for a special horse-drawn sleigh ride. Observe herds of elk in their wintering grounds, and learn about their habitat and means of survival through the season.

Tonight gather together for a convivial farewell dinner. Recount the week’s memorable experiences and bid a fond goodbye to the magnificent Yellowstone wildlife, the park, and your travel companions.
Overnight: The Lexington at Jackson Hole (B,L,D)

Day 7: Depart Jackson
After breakfast guests may take the complimentary hotel transfer to the airport for flights home. Schedule a transfer at the front desk the evening prior to departure. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

(Itinerary subject to change.)