Yellowstone National Park in Winter

Where snowy landscapes, erupting geysers and a plethora of wildlife encounters make for an unforgettable adventure!

Written by Ben Farrell

A journey through Yellowstone with National Geographic

Yellowstone National Park, where snowy landscapes and wildlife encounters make for an unforgettable adventure! From the thrill of spotting wolves in the Lamar Valley to the breathtaking spectacle of Old Faithful erupting against a frosty backdrop, every moment is a visual feast. Marvel at the geothermal beauty of Mammoth Hot Springs and experience the frozen grandeur of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Wildlife in Lamar Valley: Watching wolves in their natural habitat, alongside herds of bison and elk, was an unforgettable experience.
Mammoth Hot Springs: The colorful geothermal terraces contrasted beautifully against the snowy backdrop.
Old Faithful and Geyser Basins: Capturing the iconic geyser erupting amidst snow-covered surroundings offered a surreal photo opportunity.
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: The frozen waterfalls and snowy canyon walls were breathtaking, especially viewed from Artist Point.
Each moment offered unique photography and nature experiences.

One of the most striking highlights of the winter tour was the visit to Grand Prismatic Spring. Even in sub-zero temperatures, the vivid colors of the spring—intense blues, fiery oranges, and deep yellows—remained mesmerizing against the snow-blanketed landscape. The rising steam created an ethereal mist, blending the colors into the cold air and offering photographers a rare opportunity to capture its beauty in winter’s silence. The usual crowds were absent, allowing us to appreciate the spring’s grandeur in peace, making it a truly unique winter experience in Yellowstone.

The climax of our journey came with the snowcoach ride to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Nothing could have prepared me for the sight of frozen waterfalls cascading down cliffs dusted with snow, framed by the Yellowstone River below. Artist Point, usually packed with summer visitors, was ours alone in this winter wonderland. The light hit the snow in a way that made everything glitter, and my camera felt like it couldn’t keep up with the sheer beauty in front of me.

As the tour drew to a close, I looked back at the moments that defined the trip—capturing wolves on the hunt, marveling at geothermal wonders, and witnessing some of Yellowstone’s most iconic landmarks in their quiet, winter glory. The photos I took on this expedition are more than just images; they are memories of a week spent in one of the wildest, most beautiful places on Earth. Winter in Yellowstone is a photographer’s dream, and I left the park knowing I had seen a side of it that few others ever do.