Yellowstone Nature Photography with Julia Cook

Dates

Aug 11–15, 2024

Group Size

10–12 Travelers

Duration

5 days, 4 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Embark on an expedition through the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, where nature's grandeur provides endless photographic opportunities. Yellowstone is the perfect place to learn, improve, and master photography of any level, with subjects ranging from geysers, hot springs, rivers, mountain vistas, wildflowers, and numerous wildlife species. With a photographic guide the entire time, any questions about composition and camera settings can be quickly answered, along with additional help or instruction, making this a trip perfect for photographers of any level. Photograph the iconic Old Faithful geyser, the vibrant colors of Grand Prismatic, and the famous Lower Falls cascading down through the yellow rocks for which Yellowstone is named. With the possibility to see wildlife at any moment, there will be plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography, even during transfers throughout the park. Possible species include bison, grizzly bears, black bears, red fox, coyote, mule deer, elk, pronghorn, bald eagles, wolves, and so many more! Search for wildlife in both Hayden and Lamar Valleys, two of the best locations in Yellowstone for wildlife. In August, the bison rut will have begun, with bulls challenging each other for mating rights, providing epic battles and dramatic photographic opportunities. Several short hikes will reveal the quiet side of Yellowstone away from crowds, perfect for observing and photographing the smaller details of nature. Explore the magic of Yellowstone through its natural beauty and wildlife, all while capturing images to take home.
$2,915USD
$3,050USD
Aug 11–15, 2024
5 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Julia Cook
Julia Cook

Hey I'm Julia! I'm a professional wildlife photographer based near Yellowstone. My overall goal is to create images that inspire others to care about wildlife and spend time in nature. I love sharing my passion for wildlife with others, and want you to come in the field to photograph some cool animals with me; I hope to see you in Yellowstone!

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Trip Activities

  • Hayden Valley

  • Old Faithful Viewpoint Hike

  • Grand Prismatic Spring Viewpoint Hike

  • Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Exploration

  • Gibbon Falls Hike

  • Lamar Valley

  • Trout Lake Hike

Included in Your Trip

  • Double Occupancy in 2-star Hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout Trip

  • All City Transfers

  • Arrival Airport Transfer (arrive by 12 pm)

  • Departure Airport Transfer (Morning of last day. Plan to book your flights after 2 pm.)

Not Included

  • Flights

  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers Outside of Designated Times

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Photo Review

Informal Gathering
As the trip has come to an end, we will hold a small informal gathering to review some of our favorite photos from the trip! During this time, we can also discuss any questions about editing photos as well.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Yellowstone! Your trip begins with TrovaTrip picking you up from the airport and transferring you to your hotel. In the evening you’ll enjoy your first dinner with the group. Plan to arrive by 12 pm.

Arrival Airport Transfer

2 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) to the hotel between 10:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. Please arrive by 12:00 P.M. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the hotel. On the transfer to the hotel, a stop for bathrooms/snacks will be made along the way.

dinner

Included welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Your meal will typically be a la carte with 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Kelly Inn West Yellowstone (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/4

Overnight in West Yellowstone.

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Day 2

Info

Good morning to your first full day in Yellowstone! After breakfast today you'll visit some of the park’s most iconic locations like Hayden Valley, Old Faithful, and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring – along with plenty of other hidden treasures that lie between these must-see attractions. You will need to transfer into the park as well as drive to each of these destinations, so today will be a lot of hopping in and out of the van. Additionally, depending on wildlife traffic, you may spend some time in the van observing the wild animals! You’ll enjoy lunch after visiting Hayden Valley before transferring to Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring. In the evening you’ll head back to West Yellowstone where you’ll have a free evening with time to get dinner on your own. Expect to spend 6-8 hours in the park today with multiple transfers and stops in between. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable athletic shoes or hiking boots, and bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a small backpack.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Kelly Inn West Yellowstone offers a buffet breakfast with coffee and tea included, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Hayden Valley

1 Hour 30 Mins

Depart West Yellowstone and transfer to Hayden Valley. Travel time is roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes but can vary depending on wildlife, traffic, and other quick stops at viewpoints along the way.

Hayden Valley

3 Hours

This morning we'll explore Hayden Valley with the hopes of viewing and photographing some wildlife. This valley, centrally located in Yellowstone National Park, is the first place to go to see wildlife in Yellowstone. As you drive along this beautiful, broad valley you are likely to see herds of bison, scattered elk (and the occasional herd), and the occasional grizzly bear. You are also likely to see waterfowl, including ducks, Canada geese and pelicans, swimming in or lounging near the Yellowstone River.

lunch

Included pack lunch at Hayden Valley. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Transfer to Old Faithful

1 Hour

Depart Hayden Valley and transfer to Old Faithful. Travel time is roughly 1 hour but can vary depending on wildlife, traffic, and other quick stops at viewpoints along the way.

Old Faithful Viewpoint Hike

1 Hour

Get your first look at the famous Old Faithful Geyser! This cone geyser is known for its predictable and regular eruptions, approximately 90 minutes between each one. The eruptions can reach heights up to 185 feet and last up to 5 minutes. If you’re lucky enough you’ll be able to watch its eruptions from the viewpoint! Distance: 1.6 miles (round trip) / Elevation gain: 160 feet / Duration: 1 hour / Difficulty: Easy

Grand Prismatic Spring Viewpoint Hike

1 Hour

15 minutes from Old Faithful takes you to the Grand Prismatic Spring. Take this short hike to the viewpoint to get great views of America’s largest hot spring! Observe the vibrant colors of blue, green, yellow and orange created by the presence of thermophilic bacteria that thrive in the varying temperature zones of the hot spring. Distance: 2 miles / Elevation gain: 100 feet / Duration: 1 hour / Difficulty: Easy

Return Transfer to West Yellowstone

1 Hour 30 Mins

After visiting Grand Prismatic Spring you’ll transfer back to West Yellowstone.

Kelly Inn West Yellowstone (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/4

Overnight in West Yellowstone.

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Day 3

Info

This morning after breakfast, you’re headed out to the North Rim to explore the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Your guide will curate your exploration of the Grand Canyon based on the group’s ability, interests, and logistics around traffic/crowds in the park. Rest assured you will have a well rounded experience and hit some iconic and beautiful spots in the park! You will need to transfer into the park as well as drive to each destination, so today will be a lot of hopping in and out of the van. Additionally, depending on wildlife traffic, you may spend some time in the van observing the wild animals! You’ll enjoy lunch at one of the many stops today and in the afternoon you’ll make a stop at Gibbon Falls on your way back to West Yellowstone where you’ll have a free evening with time to get dinner on your own. Expect to spend 6-8 hours in the park today with multiple transfers and stops in between. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable athletic shoes or hiking boots, and bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a small backpack.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Kelly Inn West Yellowstone offers a buffet breakfast with coffee and tea included, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to North Rim

1 Hour 30 Mins

Head out to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Exploration

6 Hours

Explore some of the highlights of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. You’ll make stops such as Inspiration Point (5 mins from North Rim), Lookout Point (10 mins from North Rim), and Artists Point (5 mins from North Rim). There are opportunities to walk and stretch your legs on each of these stops but walking will generally be less than a half mile at each stop. If the group is looking to hike a longer trail just let your guide know! A recommended trail is the Clear Lake Artists Point loop trail. Beginning at Upper Falls, the trail heads east along the canyon. There is an initial steep climb for the first quarter of the trail and then levels out around Artists Point. The rest of the trail is relatively easy and less strenuous than the first half - Distance: 3.9 miles / Elevation: 423 feet / Duration: 2 - 2.5 hours / Difficulty: Moderate. Finally, if the group is interested, you can spot more wildlife in Hayden Valley and the Mud Volcano.

lunch

Included pack lunch on the road. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Transfer to West Yellowstone Via Gibbon Falls

1 Hour 30 Mins

Depending on where you end up, your transfer back to West Yellowstone will take between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. You’ll stop at Gibbon Falls on the way back to finish out the day.

Gibbon Falls Hike

30 Mins

Finish the day with a quick visit to this 84-foot waterfall, which cascades over a ridge that was formed by a massive volcanic eruption approximately 631,000 years ago. After the hike you’ll transfer another 30 minutes back to West Yellowstone. Distance: 0.5 miles / Elevation gain: 55 feet / Duration: 15 minutes / Difficulty: Easy / Trail Type: Out and back

Kelly Inn West Yellowstone (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/4

Overnight in West Yellowstone.

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Day 4

Info

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before you head into the park for your last day. We'll then head to Lamar Valley for another opportunity to view and photograph wildlife, hopefully getting a glimpse of some impressive wolf packs. After spending time at Lamar Valley, we'll enjoy a pack lunch and then stop for an easy and scenic hike at Trout Lake. Then transfer back to West Yellowstone for your final meal with your group! You will need to transfer into the park as well as drive to each destination, so today will be a lot of hopping in and out of the van. Additionally, depending on wildlife traffic, you may spend some time in the van observing the wild animals! Expect to spend 6-8 hours in the park today with multiple transfers and stops in between. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable athletic shoes or hiking boots, and bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a small backpack.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Kelly Inn West Yellowstone offers a buffet breakfast with coffee and tea included, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Transfer to Lamar Valley

2 Hours 10 Mins

Depart West Yellowstone and transfer to Lamar Valley. Travel time is roughly 2 hours and 10 minutes but can vary depending on wildlife, traffic, and other quick stops at viewpoints along the way.

Lamar Valley

2 Hours

Today we'll have another chance at viewing and photographing wildlife in Yellowstone at Lamar Valley. Among its most famous inhabitants are the Junction Butte and Lamar Canyon wolf packs. In addition to wolves, other animals roaming the Lamar include large herds of bison, pronghorn, badgers, grizzly bears, bald eagles, osprey, deer, and coyotes.

lunch

Included pack lunch on the road. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Trout Lake Hike

35 Mins

After spending time at Lamar Valley, we'll take a short drive to hike the Trout Lake Loop Trail. After your visit, you’ll transfer 45 minutes back to West Yellowstone. The trail begins with a moderately strenuous climb through a Douglas-fir forest to reach the top of the ridge. After arriving at the lake, keep an eye out for a chance to see more wildlife over on the hills opposite of the lake. After our hike, we'll head back to West Yellowstone for a final farewell dinner. Distance: 1.2 miles / Elevation gain: 209 feet / Duration: 35 minutes / Difficulty: Easy

dinner

Farewell dinner included at a local restaurant. Your meal will typically be a la carte with 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Photo Review

As the trip has come to an end, we will hold a small informal gathering to review some of our favorite photos from the trip! During this time, we can also discuss any questions about editing photos as well.

Kelly Inn West Yellowstone (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/4

Overnight in West Yellowstone.

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

All good things must come to an end! After breakfast you'll transfer to the Bozeman airport and bid farewell for now.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Kelly Inn West Yellowstone offers a buffet breakfast with coffee and tea included, subject to change. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Departure Airport Transfer

2 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from the campground to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) on the last day. Please book your flights after 2:00 P.M. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). Stops for bathroom breaks will be made as needed on the way to the airport.

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Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.