YELLOWSTONE 3-DAY ITINERARY (FALL)
As the vibrant hues of autumn painted the landscape, I embarked on a journey to Yellowstone National Park, a place where wild beauty and geothermal wonders collide. Little did I know, this trip would be an exhilarating dance with nature, filled with unexpected encounters and breathtaking vistas.
Day One: A Snowy Welcome and Geothermal Grandeur
My adventure began on October 24th, with a magical sunrise at Oxbow Bend, the Teton Range reflecting perfectly in the still water – a photographer's dream. From there, I ventured into Yellowstone's southern entrance, and it wasn't long before the park revealed its wild heart. Near Lewis Lake, two sleek, jet-black Grey Wolves darted across the road in front of me, a truly awe-inspiring start to the trip.
As I drove further, the sky opened up, and snow began to fall fast and heavy. I won't lie, a moment of doubt crept in – what had I gotten myself into? But the allure of Yellowstone quickly pushed any apprehension aside. Highway 191 offered a continuous spectacle of waterfalls, towering mountains, and pristine lakes, each turn revealing a new masterpiece of nature.
The afternoon was dedicated to Yellowstone's pulsating heart: the Geyser Trail. Witnessing the raw power of iconic geysers erupting, spewing hot water and steam skyward, was an unforgettable experience. The day concluded with another stunning sunrise, this time at the majestic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, before settling into my first night at Canyon Lodge.
Day Two: Chasing Light, Frosty Bison, and Mountain Heights
October 25th dawned with a purpose – a sunrise wake-up to view the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone at dawn. The soft, ethereal light illuminating the canyon's vibrant colors was simply magical. I even had the good fortune to meet a group of seasoned photographers who generously shared invaluable tips and insights into the best spots for capturing wildlife and landscapes – a true gift for any enthusiast!
My morning drive through Hayden Valley brought me face-to-face with frosty bison, their shaggy coats dusted with a delicate layer of ice, a testament to the crisp autumn air. The true highlight of the day, however, was meeting my friend Leah for a challenging yet rewarding climb up Avalanche Peak. While wildlife sightings were scarce on the ascent, the fresh paw prints in the snow hinted at the creatures that call this rugged terrain home. Reaching the summit was an exhilarating triumph, offering panoramic views that stretched for miles, a true reward for our efforts.
As dusk approached, we drove to Lamar Valley, renowned for its abundant wildlife. Though the animals were elusive that evening, the tranquility of the valley as the stars began to twinkle was a perfect prelude to our dinner under the stars – a simple yet profound moment of connection with nature.
Day Three: Misty Springs and Lakeside Serenity
The final day, October 26th, began with hopeful anticipation for a sunrise at Grand Prismatic Spring. Unfortunately, the morning mist was exceptionally thick, resulting in terrible visibility. While a little disappointing, it was a reminder that nature always holds the ultimate sway.
After a warm coffee with Leah, we bid our goodbyes, promising to reunite for future adventures. The rest of my day was spent immersed in the charm of Gardiner, Montana, the northern gateway to Yellowstone. I found myself drawn to the serene beauty of Hayden Valley once more, spending the afternoon shooting fly fishermen gracefully casting their lines against the stunning backdrop, and patiently waiting for wildlife to reveal themselves.
Yellowstone in autumn is a truly unique experience. The crisp air, the changing colors, and the fewer crowds create an intimate connection with this extraordinary wilderness. Despite the unpredictable weather and elusive wildlife at times, the sheer beauty and raw power of Yellowstone left an indelible mark on my soul. It was a journey of wonder, challenge, and profound appreciation for the wild heart of America.
Joel is currently preparing for a second trip to Yellowstone in September, 2025.
