A Birthday Surprise
This year, my husband, Devan, surprised me with the ultimate birthday gift—a trip to Wyoming! The best part? I didn’t know where we were going until we boarded the second plane! As a photographer, I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect destination. Spending a few days surrounded by Yellowstone’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife was an experience I’ll cherish forever—and one I couldn’t wait to capture through my lens.
The Chase for Light
As any photographer knows, light can make or break a shot, and Yellowstone offered endless opportunities to explore lighting conditions. Whether it was the soft, pastel hues of sunrise, the warm glow of golden hour, or the deep twilight that enveloped the Grand Prismatic Spring, every moment was a chance to capture something truly unique. I found myself constantly in awe of how the light transformed the landscape, bringing out new colors, textures, and moods in each scene.
Sunset Magic at Mammoth Hot Springs
One of the most breathtaking moments of our trip was exploring Mammoth Hot Springs at sunset. The fading golden light bathed the terraces in a soft glow, turning the layers of limestone into a canvas of ever-changing colors. The terraces, formed by centuries of mineral deposits, looked almost otherworldly. Every angle revealed something new, contrasting the smooth, flowing water with the rigid stone formations. It was one of those moments where I probably didn’t take enough photos—because I didn’t want to miss a second of the beauty in front of me.
MAGICAL TWILIGHT AT THE GRAND PRISMATIC SPRING
While we didn’t catch the vibrant midday colors, what we experienced was equally magical. The deep blue twilight sky blended with the swirling steam, creating a soft, mysterious glow. The colors were muted, more dreamlike, and the mist seemed to shimmer under the fading light. Despite the biting cold wind that night, I was captivated by the quiet beauty of the spring in those peaceful evening hours.
One of the highlights of our trip was making it to the Grand Prismatic Spring just after sunset on our last day.
Capturing the Milky Way
After full days of exploring, there was one shot I couldn’t leave without attempting: the Milky Way. Even though I was exhausted, the chance to capture the stars far from city lights was irresistible. While I had originally planned to photograph it over the Grand Prismatic Spring, the cold and wind had other ideas. So, we pulled over at Firehole Lake instead. Standing there under the vast night sky, camera in hand, I realized it didn’t matter where I was—Yellowstone’s magic was everywhere.
Wildlife
Bison
We noticed that the park was relatively bare of bison which was a bit surprising, as we had expected to see more of these iconic animals. Visiting in late August meant the bison were scarce, a reminder of how Yellowstone’s wildlife ebbs and flows with the seasons. Though we didn’t see as many bison as we had hoped, their few appearances were still a treat, especially when one crossed the road directly in front of us.
Black Bear
While we didn’t see as many bison as we had hoped, spotting a black bear in a tree more than made up for it. Seeing a bear perched so high in the branches was surreal—definitely not something we expected! It was a rare sight and a beautiful reminder of the park’s untamed wilderness. Watching the bear so peaceful and at ease gave us a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures.
is this A wolf, fox or coyote?
Wolves:
- Size: Wolves are the largest of the three, typically standing around 26-32 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 80-120 pounds.
- Color: Wolves in Yellowstone can vary in color from gray to almost black or even white, but they are usually larger and bulkier than coyotes.
- Behavior: Wolves tend to move in a confident, almost effortless manner. They are less likely to be seen alone as they often travel in packs, but lone wolves can occasionally be spotted.
- Ears & Snout: Wolves have smaller, rounded ears and broader snouts compared to coyotes.
Coyotes:
- Size: Coyotes are smaller, around 21-24 inches tall, and weigh between 20-50 pounds, making them more medium-sized compared to wolves.
- Color: Coyotes are usually grayish-brown with reddish tinges, though they are more slender and less muscular than wolves.
- Behavior: Coyotes often travel alone or in pairs and can seem skittish or alert. They are more commonly seen in Yellowstone than wolves and often move with a quicker, lighter gait.
- Ears & Snout: Coyotes have larger, more pointed ears and a narrower snout compared to wolves.
Foxes:
- Size: Foxes are the smallest of the three, standing about 14-16 inches tall and weighing around 8-15 pounds.
- Color: Most foxes are reddish-orange (red fox), though they can also be silver or gray (gray fox). They have bushy tails that are often tipped in white.
- Behavior: Foxes are much smaller, and they tend to be more elusive and solitary. They have a more cat-like, light-footed way of moving.
- Ears & Snout: Foxes have small, pointed ears and sharp, narrow snouts. Their body is slender, and their bushy tail is a key feature.
There’s magic in every corner of Yellowstone.
Old Faithful Inn
The Old Faithful Inn has some truly unique features that make it stand out. Its massive log structure, one of the largest in the world, is built from local materials, giving it a rustic, natural feel. The lobby is breathtaking with its towering stone fireplace and a grand, multi-story atrium supported by huge wooden beams.
One of the most interesting features is the handmade clock that sits above the fireplace, crafted with intricate detail. The crow's nest balcony at the top of the inn offers amazing views, though it's now closed to visitors for safety. Outside, you can sit on the deck and watch Old Faithful erupt.
Even if you’re just passing through, it's worth a visit to experience the architecture and the history of this iconic lodge in the heart of the park.
Yellowstone Post Offices
Yellowstone’s post offices are small yet charming spots scattered throughout the park, offering visitors a unique way to send postcards from one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. These historic buildings, found at locations like Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, and Lake Village, allow you to mail a memory from the heart of Yellowstone, complete with a special postmark. They add a nostalgic touch to any visit, connecting travelers with the park's rich history and the outside world.
Timeless Elegance at Yellowstone Lake Hotel
While exploring the wild beauty of Yellowstone was an adventure in itself, stepping into the Yellowstone Lake Hotel felt like traveling back in time. With its grand colonial architecture and serene location overlooking Yellowstone Lake, the hotel is an iconic reminder of the park’s early days of tourism. Built in 1891, it exudes an elegance and charm that provides a perfect counterbalance to the rugged landscapes outside.
lake Yellowstone hotel
With its iconic colonial architecture and breathtaking views, this historic hotel provides a peaceful retreat amidst the rugged landscapes of Yellowstone National Park.

Timeless elegance and lakefront tranquility define the charm of Yellowstone Lake Hotel.
Reflections on a Perfect Getaway
Looking back, this birthday surprise was more than just a trip—it was a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore the world through my lens with the best companion. Yellowstone’s untouched beauty is a reminder of how important it is to preserve wild places like this, and I hope my photographs inspire others to visit and experience its wonders for themselves.
For those who have been to Yellowstone, I hope these images bring back memories of your own adventures. And for those who haven’t yet had the chance, I hope they inspire you to plan your own journey into the heart of this incredible park.
Artist Falls
Old Faithful
Bison
Mammoth Terraces
Grand Prismatic Spring