GEAR

Spring is an exciting time for wildlife photographers in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

, the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is in the fall. Depending on the animal, many species are in the rut and engaged in exciting behavior for those fortunate enough to encounter these animals. By mid-September, the summer crowds have died down, and cooler weather is changing animal behavior while generally making it more pleasant to be outside for long hours. But the fall is also a time when a variety of weather conditions can make for dramatic extremes and the need to plan for just about everything. In this post, we break down top recommendations for what to pack for gear and clothing for fall photography travel to Yellowstone.

Photography Gear

When it comes to cameras and lenses, there is no set answer for what to take to Yellowstone. After all, each photographer has their own idea of how and what they want to shoot. That said, the following recommendations align with commonly preferred approaches to wildlife in Yellowstone and what I generally bring to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks in the fall.

Camera Bodies

My go-to camera body for Yellowstone is a Sony A1. Sony now makes an A1 II that offers some new features, but I like the A1 (and would like the A1 II) because it’s a full-frame, mirrorless, high megapixel, fast sports body that checks every box for me for wildlife photography. One main reason I want a higher MP body is for the ability to crop while maintaining good resolution. There are days that the animals are simply so far that the composition I might want can only be achieved with significant cropping. Additionally, I like photographing individual aspects of animals such as a bison eye or bear claw. A good telephoto lens and a high MP camera can go a long way. Because it’s good to have a second body on hand, I also bring a Sony A7R5 and/or a Sony A7 IV. For me, the A7R5 is slower than the A1 but offers more megapixels. The A7 IV offers the fewest number of megapixels but is excellent at low light.

For Nikon users, comparable bodies would be the Nikon Z8 (which is a 45.7MP camera that can reach up to 20 frames per second raw). The Nikon Z6 III offers 24.5 MP and up to 20fps raw).

And while there are many more outstanding cameras to consider, we’ll keep this list to the big three (Sony, Nikon, Canon) and end with Canon. The Canon R5 and R5 II are phenomenal fast, high MP mirrorless bodies that best compare to the Sony A1 and Nikon Z8. The Canon R1 is Canon’s flagship camera and is a great option (with fewer MPs but higher frame rate and other features), and the like with Sony and Nikon, there are a variety of other options that would also make for great cameras for photographing wildlife.

Lenses

Sony

A lens with good reach goes a long way with wildlife. For me, prior to using the Sony 600mm f/4, the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G lens was the lens for me in the Park. That range of 200-600 can cover a wide variety of situations, and in many instances, this lens is less restrictive than a 600. Sometimes with the 600, animals are closer or move closer, and I am stuck at 600. Another favorite for many is a 400mm f/2.8; however for my needs and for travel, I use a 300mm f/2.8. This is a great lens that costs less than a 400 and can be well-paired with a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter. Note: Be sure to have a good lens foot for these larger lenses.

In addition to these long lenses, I like to be prepared for scenarios in which the animals are farther away or even not present at all. A 16-35mm f/2.8 lens can cover a variety of needs, and a 24-70mm f2.8 can be great to have along as well. And if those bigger lenses above are too big, a 70-200mm f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) is another excellent option.

Nikon

For Nikon users, the NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 lens can cover a wide range of focal lengths and be great as a (nearly) all-purpose lens for wildlife photography at a moderate price. The NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens is an impressive lens that includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter that enables photographers to easily switch to a 800mm f5.6 — a very cool feature. Similarly, the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens offers a lower aperture than the 600mm but also includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to easily switch this lens to a 560mm f/4. Again, do be sure to have a lens foot for these lenses.

Also for consideration: A NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 and a NIKKOR Z 70-200 f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) can be excellent lenses for landscape and wildlife photography.

Canon

The Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 lens covers a broad range of focal lengths and is moderately priced though it doesn’t have some of those lower apertures that can be great for speed and blurring backgrounds. Canon also offers an RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 that has lower f-stops. For those looking to go (very) long, Canon has an RF 800mm f/5.6 lens, and for a little less reach, Canon has an RF 400mm f/2.8 and an RF 600mm f/4 lens that are ideal for wildlife photography — especially for bears, wolves, and other animals that you’ll want to stay a little further away from.

As for smaller lenses, Canon’s RF 15-35mm f/2.8, the 24-70mm f/2.8, and their 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are great to have.

Clothing, Apparel, Boots, Baselayers

Many are intimidated by weather in the Northern Rockies, especially when fall weather could be as warm as the 90s or cold enough to bring deep snow, but great clothes and smart layering can make most weather manageable. Some favorite apparel items are listed below.

Gloves

Cold hands can have a big impact in the field. Since wearing gloves from The Heat Company, I couldn’t be more pleased, and I haven’t looked back. The Heat Company offers a good selection of gloves. My go-to gloves are below.

The Heat Company Merino Liner Pro gloves are great for when the temperatures get a bit chilly. Frankly, I generally want to avoid wearing gloves as nothing beats the feel and functionality of having bare hands on a camera. But when cold temperatures restrict functionality or impact stamina, I’m eager to get gloves on. For that first layer, the Merino Liner Pro gloves are a warm liner glove with an outstanding fit with great grip and the ability to use with camera touchscreens. These gloves have a pocket for handwarmers, and they are also very breathable, which is essential for situations in which hands sweat, and you need to keep from having cold, wet hands and gloves.

In addition to their liners, I like to have shells from the Heat Company on hand (literally) too. These liners work perfectly with The Heat Company’s Shell — a windproof and water repellent mitten that has a great grip and magnets for holing the pull-back coverings for the thumbs and fingers.

Baselayers

For baselayers, Patagonia is a big favorite on this end, and you’ll definitely find that preference in the items below. Note: While Patagonia is what I wear, this list should offer guidance, as some other companies offer comparable products.

When the weather is a bit warmer, the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody is a preferred piece. This long-sleeved hoody is so lightweight, I generally wear this instead of a t-shirt. It is not only extremely light, it dries quickly, is very breathable, and I like having my arms, head, and neck covered at times.

When it’s cooler out, the Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover Hoody and Patagonia Capilene Thermal Hoody are warmer technical tops that are breathable and designed for function. I will wear these over the Capilene Cool Daily Hoody as I like having two hood weight options between two tops at one time. And when it’s colder out, the Patagonia R2 TechFace Pullover is outstanding. I was even involved in the production of videos for this item.

As for baselayer bottoms, I like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms for cool days and the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Bottoms for cold days.

For keeping covered and even keeping warm, neck gaiters such as the Patagonia R1 Daily Neck Gaiter or the Patagonia Micro D Gaiter are great options. For warmer conditions, consider the Patagonia Sun Mask or a Buff.

Socks

My preference for socks is midweight ski and snowboard socks. Though I have heavier and thicker socks, I’ve never felt the need to go heavier, and I want to avoid sweating as much as possible. The Smartwool Merino Wool Ski Socks are a current favorite. They aren’t too much on cool days, and as the temperatures change throughout the day as they generally do in the Rocky Mountains, I will lower and raise the socks to maintain just the right amount of warmth. When it gets much colder, I rely more on warmer baselayer pants and boots to deal with the cold rather than thicker socks.

Headwear

If you find a good beanie, buy two. It seems like most outdoors apparel companies make good beanies. But a favorite can be hard to find and preferences are subjective. Beanies are recommended for colder days as regulating head temperatures can have a big impact on how warm and cold you are throughout a day.

Jackets

In the Rockies, the Patagonia Nano Puff is so commonly seen, one might think it’s mandatory apparel. Like many outdoors enthusiasts, the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody might be my most frequently worn jacket. This jacket is windproof, water-resistant, and very lightweight and packable. It almost has no impact on my load when traveling or in the field, so it often comes with me. And when it gets a bit colder, I do like this jacket under a heavier coat. Note: These jackets will take on some water, but they aren’t waterproof. It’s always good to have a waterproof jacket.

Frigid cold and snow happens in the fall. On most cold days, I wear the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, which is fairly lightweight, packable, windproof, and water resistant. For a much heavier but waterproof option, I go with the Patagonia Jackson Glacier Jacket. If it’s not too frigid but I want to stay dry, a good waterproof ski shell over good baselayers might work just fine.

Pants

The search for the perfect all-around fall pants is an ongoing quest. Presently I generally go with the Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants, which are windproof and water resistant and generally perfect, but in a hard rain, that water resistance can only do so much, and one can get wet, and I would not characterize these pants as quick drying.

It can get pretty cold and snowstorms happen. In that case, I would recommend ski pants. Current favorites are the Patagonia Storm Shift Pants, the Patagonia Powder Town Pants, and the Freedom Pants from The North Face. All of these options should be worn with baselayer pants. And don’t forget a good belt.

Boots and Shoes

Boots are heavily subjective. I recommend going tall and waterproof with an athletic fit (if possible). A good sole and grip is essential. The SOREL Caribou waterproof boots are what I wear throughout the winter or if it snows. Generally, the taller SOREL BUXTON boots are what I wear in the fall. If I’m going to hike more, I go with the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots.

Miscellaneous Gear

Tripods

There are many different tripods to fit a variety of needs for photographers. For wildlife photography, a tripod that is light enough to not weigh you down and is strong enough to hold heavy lenses is what you’ll need to look for. The Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod and the Sirui W-2004 Waterproof Aluminum Alloy Tripod are excellent. The carbon fiber option is lighter. I’ve heard it said that the aluminum is stronger in extreme cold. I have yet to find out the hard way which is stronger.

Gimbal

There are many great-looking and high functioning gimbals out there now. For wildlife photography, I like the Wimberley WH-200 Gimbal Tripod Head II with Quick Release Base. It is strong, easy to use, and has a nice smooth motion when set properly.

Sunglasses

Good, quality polarized sunglasses can really help you see and reduce eye fatigue. Smith and Costa are among a number of top brands. The Smith Embark and Smith Venture sunglasses offer side shields that block light from the side, which can be very useful, especially if there is glare from snow.

Backpacks and Packs

For carrying gear in the field, I highly recommend f-stop backpacks. The Mountain Series packs have gone with me to mountain shoots all over the world. I currently use the f-stop ANJA 37L DuraDiamond, the TILOPA 50L DuraDiamond, and the SHINN 80L DuraDiamond backpacks. When I am solo and on most trips, I use the TILOPA. If I am guiding or need more than one big lens with me, I go with the SHINN. I have put these packs through a lot, and they are durable and tough while remarkably comfortable to wear for hours and hours on end. These packs have an endless number of features, but their comfort and ability to withstand weather and more are at the top of my list of reasons to go with one (or all) of these packs.

Drinkware

One of the most important items you can have with you in the mountains is water. Camelbaks are easy and convenient and can often be incorporated into your pack. A Katadyn BeFree filter packs easy and can get you water in a pinch. The YETI Yonder bottles are fairly lightweight. The YETI Rambler bottles are not lightweight, but they can keep your coffee warm.

Trekking Poles

As photographers, and especially as wilderness photographers, we carry heavy loads on uneven terrain, and we frequently need to hike to get to our subject. Trekking poles are great for keeping balance and hopefully decreasing fatigue. The Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles are excellent. The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are a bit lighter but also nearly twice the price.

Headlamp

I won’t go many places without a headlamp, even if it’s just in the glove box of the truck. For photographers, they care useful for everything from sorting through gear at low light to being a light source when hiking. My favorite headlamp is the Fenix HM50R. This headlamp offers good brightness and distance and a rechargeable battery. There are other features, but the rechargeable battery is what makes this the preferred lamp, especially for travel or multiple days in the outdoors. The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp is also a good option.

Multi-tool

The Leatherman Skeletool has come through when things go wrong. Good for gear fixes.

Other

For Yellowstone, you’ll need bear spray. You can’t fly with it, but many stores around the Park carry it. You can also order it and have it waiting for you at your destination. When photographing wildlife, and especially with big files from these high megapixel cameras, it is easy to blow through batteries and SD cards. Pack extra batteries and cards, and be certain your cards are fast enough to take on high burst rate shooting sessions. You can never have enough lens wipes, and a lens cover can be key in a downpour or snowstorm. Lastly, always consider safety and safety communications. A Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a very lightweight and compact satellite communications tool with an easy-to-access SOS function. Better safe in the wilderness.

— Tim Harden

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Disclosure: Some of the companies above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.

Yellowstone National Park is more than 2.2 million acres of wilderness that is home to diverse landscapes, geothermal features, an abundance of wildlife, and much more. In many ways, Yellowstone is so large and offers so much that it can be overwhelming. Below are a number of books that might help you get familiar with Yellowstone, learn more about the ecosystem, and even grow a deeper appreciation for this magnificent region of the Northern Rockies.

Yellowstone: A Journey Through America’s Wild Heart

by David Quammen

For those interested in an exploration of the ecology of Yellowstone National Park and neighboring areas, this book dives deep into this ecosystem and has a nice collection of excellent photos to help tell the story of Yellowstone and its wildlife.

Learn more.

Seasons of Yellowstone: Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

by Thomas D. Mangelsen

It’s possible that Tom Mangelsen is the most well-known wildlife photographer in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Based in Jackson Hole, he’s especially recognized for photographing well-known bears. And although he has traveled around the world, his extensive work in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks have been impactful in telling the story of the wildlife and ecosystem. “Seasons of Yellowstone” offer a comprehensive look at many of his photos from years in this region of the Rockies.

Learn more.

Bison: Portrait of an Icon

by Audrey Hall and Chase Reynolds Ewald

Bison are iconic to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and their history and story, especially over the last 200 years, is especially eventful. Knowing the story of bison in North America is knowing the history of the United States and Yellowstone itself. Bison are a critical species to the ecosystem and their recovery is a story of hope. “Bison: Portrait of an Icon” pays homage to these animals through photography and essays.

Learn more.

Flora of the Yellowstone

by Whitney Tilt

Knowing the plants, trees, and flowers of Yellowstone can be very helpful with finding wildlife. And on those days when animals might be hard to find, wildflowers and other flora might help make for good days of landscape or macro photography. “Flora of the Yellowstone” has been a favorite for many for a long time.

Learn more.

Wild Wonders

by Julia Cook

Julia Cook is a wildlife photographer and guide in Yellowstone, and her work is some of the best out there. “Wild Wonders” is a fairly recent release that is an impressive volume of exceptional wildlife photography.

Learn more.

The Ecological Buffalo

by Wes Olson and Johane Janelle

The near extinction and then recovery of bison have revealed just how critical these animals are to their native ecosystems. They are in fact a keystone species, and in “The Ecological Buffalo,” authors Wes Olson and Johane Janelle break down just how remarkable and ecologically valuable bison are to the Yellowstone region and beyond.

Learn more.

Ansel Adams in the National Parks: Photographs from America’s Wild Places

by Ansel Adams and Andrea Stillman

Ansel Adams’ photos from National Parks have endured for many decades, and many believe his work has helped people all over the world grow an appreciation for our public lands and parks. His work is among the best, and his breathtaking landscapes are inspirational. This book isn’t focused on Yellowstone, but it is certainly worth having on the bookshelf or coffee table.

Learn more.

American Buffalo: In Search of a Lost Icon

by Steven Rinella

Steve Rinella is most known as a hunter whose pursuit of animals has been documented for years on the show MeatEater. But through his hunting, Rinella has become an amateur biologist or animal historian of sorts, and his journey to hunt bison in Alaska led to an outstanding book about the animal and its saga in American history. More recently, he talks about the history of bison in the United States in Ken Burns’ series, The American Buffalo.

Learn more.

Bears of North America

by Stan Tekiela

“Bears of North America” by Stan Tekiela is a great 160-page book about black bears, brown bears, and polar bears. The author offers great bear photography as well an interesting information about the bear species and even where one might be able to photograph them.

Learn more.

National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of the United States and Canada—West

by Ted Floyd

This regionally-focused book on the birds of western North America is incredibly useful in the field. At nearly 500 pages, it doesn’t exactly fit in your back pocket, but this book is very comprehensive and offers great detail and illustrations of the birds you might find in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and throughout the west.

Learn more.

Silence & Solitude, The Light of Spring, Abundance of Summer, The Comfort of Autumn, The Spirit of Winter

by Tom Murphy

Tom Murphy is one of the highest regarded wildlife photographers in Yellowstone. He even recently had a bison photo inspire a new postage stamp. His photography books that take on each season in Yellowstone are phenomenal. They can be hard to find at times, so it is recommended that you get one if you see it.

Learn more.

Yellowstone Wolves: Science and Discovery in the World’s First National Park

by Douglas W. Smith, Daniel R. Stahler, and Daniel R. MacNulty

If you want to go deep into the science of wolves in Yellowstone, this book is about as comprehensive as it gets. While it touches on the history of wolves in Yellowstone, “Yellowstone Wolves” largely details nearly all aspects of these animals in the time since they were reintroduced. From their movements to exactly what prey they are eating, this book is a significant scientific contribution. Note that it is very academic in nature.

Learn more.

Yellowstone’s Birds: Diversity and Abundance in the World’s First National Park

by Douglas W. Smith, Lauren E. Walker, and Katherine E. Duffy

“Yellowstone’s Birds” is an excellent book for those wanting to learn all about the birds in the region. For everything from swans to ravens, this book has it all. A great coffee table book, this one might be a little heavy for the field, but it is highly recommended for at home reading.

Learn more.

Yellowstone Treasures: The Traveler’s Companion to the National Park

by Janet Chapple

Janet Chapple’s “Yellowstone Treasures” is great travel guide to use to plan trips or to have on hand in the park. Similar in format to a Rick Steves or Lonely Planet guide, this book is organized by regions and areas of the park then details everything from site to hikes to the characteristics of each geyser and much more.

Learn more.

Hiking Yellowstone National Park

by Bill Schneider

When summer travel packs the park, hiking is a great way to get off the beaten path (or paved road) and escape the crowds while discovering some of the beauty the park offers in its backcountry. This guide gives guests more than 100 options for hikes and offers tremendous detail about each hike. Do know that encountering animals in the backcountry can be a bit different than from the road where they may be acclimated to cars and photographers, so be especially careful about disturbing or approaching wildlife.

Learn more.

Atlas of Yellowstone

by W. Andrew Marcus, James E. Meacham, Ann W. Rodman, Alethea Y. Steingisser, Justin T. Menke, Ross West

As a photography and fly fishing guide in Yellowstone, “Atlas of Yellowstone” is an invaluable book. Packed with illustrations, graphics, charts, maps, and more, this is a remarkable resource for knowing everything from the geology of the Tetons to the native fish of the region and their distribution to the biology of bears.

Learn more.

Yellowstone — The Official Guide to Touring the World’s First National Park

by Yellowstone Forever

Yellowstone Forever is Yellowstone’s longtime educational partner, and they offer a variety of resources for those visiting and wanting to learn more about the park. Among their offerings, this guide is a visually appealing and easy-to-read book of less than 100 pages that can really simplify a trip to Yellowstone. This book covers site, hike and walks, and some of the geology and flora among other aspects.

Learn more.

— Tim Harden

Disclosure: Some of the booksellers above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.

Spring is an exciting time for wildlife photographers in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Bears and other animals reemerge, and a variety of weather conditions from spring snowstorms to bluebird sunny days along with longer days presents plenty of opportunities for photographers. But this range of conditions and changing terrain can also make for more gear considerations. In this post, we break down top recommendations for what to pack for gear and clothing for spring photography travel to the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park regions.

Photography Gear

All photographers have their own approach to what and how they generally shoot. There are many cameras and lenses out there, and there is much to consider. The following recommendations align with commonly preferred approaches to wildlife photography in Yellowstone and what I generally consider in the region in the spring.

Camera Bodies

For wildlife photography in Yellowstone, I shoot with a Sony A1. Sony now makes an A1 II that offers some new features, but I like the A1 (and would like the A1 II) because it’s a full-frame, mirrorless, high megapixel, fast sports body that checks every box for me for wildlife photography. The fast readout speeds are a key reason why I opt for the A1 over other, newer high megapixel cameras, even those with fast frame rates. A key reason I want a higher MP body is for the ability to crop while maintaining good resolution. There are days that the animals are simply so far that the composition I might want can only be achieved with significant cropping. I also like avoiding a teleconverter when possible, and the ability to crop is a way to cut down on that additional gear and the increased aperture that comes with TCs. Additionally, I like photographing individual aspects of animals such the face of a bear. A good telephoto lens and a high MP camera can go a long way. Because it’s good to have a second body on hand, I also bring a Sony A7R5 and/or a Sony A7 IV. For me, the A7R5 is slower than the A1 but offers more megapixels. The A7 IV offers the fewest number of megapixels but is excellent at low light. Sony now has an upgraded A7RVI that offers higher megapixels and more speed.

For Nikon users, comparable bodies would be the Nikon Z8 (which is a 45.7MP camera that can reach up to 20 frames per second raw). The Nikon Z6 III offers 24.5 MP and up to 20fps raw).

And while there are many more outstanding cameras to consider, we’ll keep this list to the big three (Sony, Nikon, Canon) and end with Canon. The Canon R5 and R5 II are phenomenal fast, high MP mirrorless bodies that best compare to the Sony A1 and Nikon Z8. The Canon R1 is Canon’s flagship camera and is a great option (with fewer MPs but higher frame rate and other features), and the like with Sony and Nikon, there are a variety of other options that would also make for great cameras for photographing wildlife.

Lenses

Sony

A lens with good reach goes a long way with photographing wildlife, especially for animals like bears that require more distance from the subject for safety reasons. For me, prior to getting a Sony 600mm f/4, the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G lens was the lens for me in the Park. That range of 200-600 can cover a wide variety of situations, and in many instances, this lens is less restrictive than a 600. Sometimes with the 600, animals are closer or move closer, and I am stuck at 600. The 600 can even be too much for photographing many landscapes and mountain peaks. Another favorite lens for many is a 400mm f/2.8; however for my needs and for travel, I use a 300mm f/2.8. This is a great lens that costs far less than a 400mm and can be well-paired with a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter. Note: Be sure to have a good lens foot for these larger lenses.

In addition to these long lenses, I like to be prepared for scenarios in which the animals are farther away or even not present at all. Days of good shooting can be lost if only in pursuit of closer shots of animals. A 16-35mm f/2.8 lens can cover a variety of needs, especially with lanscape photography, and a 24-70mm f2.8 can be great to have along as well. And if those bigger lenses above are too big, a 70-200mm f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) is another excellent option.

Nikon

For Nikon users, the NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 lens can cover a wide range of focal lengths and be great as a (nearly) all-purpose lens for wildlife photography at a moderate price. The NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens is an impressive lens that includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter that enables photographers to easily switch to a 800mm f5.6 — a very useful feature. Similarly, the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens offers a lower aperture than the 600mm but also includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to easily switch this lens to a 560mm f/4. Again, it is important to have a lens foot for these lenses.

Also for consideration: A NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 and a NIKKOR Z 70-200 f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) can be excellent lenses for landscape and wildlife photography.

Canon

The Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 lens covers a broad range of focal lengths and is moderately priced though it doesn’t have some of those lower apertures that can be great for speed and blurring backgrounds. Canon also offers an RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 that has lower f-stops. For those looking to go (very) long, Canon has an RF 800mm f/5.6 lens, and for a little less reach, Canon has an RF 400mm f/2.8 and an RF 600mm f/4 lens that are ideal for wildlife photography — especially for bears, wolves, and other animals that demand keeping some distance.

As for smaller lenses, Canon’s RF 15-35mm f/2.8, the 24-70mm f/2.8, and their 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are great to have.

Clothing, Apparel, Boots, Baselayers

Planning for spring weather in the Northern Rockies can mean planning for extremes. Heat waves can precede blizzards, and calm and pleasant days can suddenly bring torrential rains. For the variety of weather one might encounter in the Rockies in spring, careful consideration of apparel should come into play.

See some favorite apparel items for spring in the Northern Rockies below.

Gloves

In general, gloves for me get in the way of being able to use my hands as quickly as I can when operating a camera. However, spring mornings and evenings tend to be cold or at least cool. And with spring snow, gloves can be essential and even important for safety. Gloves from The Heat Company have been a game changer for me, and I couldn’t be more pleased, especially as they are designed for functionality for photographers. My go-to gloves are below.

The Heat Company Merino Liner Pro gloves are great for when the temperatures get a bit chilly but not too frigid. When cold temperatures restrict finger and hand functionality or impact stamina, these gloves are the first to go on. For that first layer, the Merino Liner Pro gloves are a warm liner glove with an outstanding fit with great grip and the ability to use with camera touchscreens. These gloves have a pocket for handwarmers, and they are also very breathable, which is essential for situations in which hands sweat, and you need to keep from having cold, wet hands and gloves.

For colder days, rain, and snow, I like to have shells from the Heat Company available to go on over the liners. These liners work perfectly with The Heat Company’s Shell — a windproof and water repellent mitten that has a great grip and magnets for holing the pull-back coverings for the thumbs and fingers. I’ve worn these in extreme conditions and have found them invaluable.

Baselayers

Thoughtful layering is important in many regions of the world and especially so in the Rockies where temperatures can change and vary so much throughout a day. For baselayers, you will likely notice a preference for Patagonia on this end, but several other companies offer items that are comparable to each of what is named below.

First, please know that early spring can deliver some of the biggest snowstorms of the year. It can also be quite cold. Winter weather conditions should be considered. To see some of what’s recommended for winter weather, please visit our winter gear recommendations article.

For cooler weather, the Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover Hoody and Patagonia Capilene Thermal Hoody are warmer technical tops that are breathable and designed for function. I will wear these over the Capilene Cool Daily Hoody as I like having two hood weight options between two tops at one time. When cold weather is going to be a factor, the Patagonia R2 TechFace Pullover is an excellent piece.

When the weather is a bit warmer, the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody is a favorite. This long-sleeved hoody is so lightweight, I generally wear this instead of a t-shirt. It is not only extremely light, it dries quickly, is very breathable, and I like having my arms, head, and neck covered at times, especially when there is intense sun.

For baselayer bottoms, I like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms for cool days and the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Bottoms for cold days.

For keeping covered and even keeping warm, neck gaiters such as the Patagonia R1 Daily Neck Gaiter or the Patagonia Micro D Gaiter are great options. For warmer conditions, consider the Patagonia Sun Mask or a Buff.

Socks

My preference for socks is midweight ski and snowboard socks. Though I have heavier and thicker socks, I’ve never felt the need to go heavier, and I want to avoid sweating as much as possible. I like all of the compression ski socks from Black Diamond. The differences largely come down to weight and warmth. The Smartwool Merino Wool Ski Socks are also a great option. Ski socks generally aren’t too hot on cool days, and as the temperatures change throughout the day as they generally do in the Rocky Mountains, I will lower and raise the socks to maintain just the right amount of warmth. When it’s colder, I rely more on warmer baselayer pants and boots to deal with the cold rather than thicker socks, though I will wear ski socks as long as it isn’t too hot to do so.

Headwear

It seems like most outdoors apparel companies make good beanies. But a favorite can be hard to find and preferences are subjective. Beanies are recommended for colder days as regulating head temperatures can have a big impact on how warm and cold you are throughout a day. You can also wear a beanie over a cap. Spring days are longer, the sun can burn, and there is often glare off of snow, rivers, and more, so a cap with a brim can be useful, and you can shed the beanie and just go with the cap as it warms up during the day.

Jackets

In mountain ranges all over the world, the Patagonia Nano Puff seems to be an overwhelming favorite. Like many outdoors enthusiasts, the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody might be my most frequently worn jacket, and I love that this jacket is windproof, water-resistant, and very lightweight and packable. It almost has no impact on my load when traveling or in the field, so it often comes with me. And when it gets a bit colder, I do like this jacket under a heavier coat. Note: These jackets will take on some water, but they aren’t waterproof. It’s always good to have a waterproof jacket.

One downside to the Patagonia Nano Puff is the lack of stretch. If you need some stretch in the material to support mobility, Black Diamond Access jackets are outstanding.

Frigid cold and snow happens in the spring. On most cold days, I wear the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, which is fairly lightweight, packable, windproof, and water resistant. For a little more durability, the Patagonia Hi-Loft Nano Puff Hoody is excellent. For a much heavier but waterproof option, I go with the Patagonia Jackson Glacier Jacket. If it’s not too frigid but I want to stay dry, a good waterproof ski shell over good baselayers might work just fine.

Pants

I have yet to find the perfect all-around spring pants. Presently I generally go with the Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants, which are windproof, water resistant, and comfortable. I do wish they had a back pocket. Unfortunately, in a hard rain, these pants seem to get wet and stay wet.

It can be pretty cold in early spring, and there is often snow on the ground. In that case, I would recommend ski pants. Current favorites are the Patagonia Storm Shift Pants, the Patagonia Powder Town Pants, and the Freedom Pants from The North Face. All of these options should be worn with baselayer pants. And don’t forget a good belt.

Lastly, and this might seem like it’s coming out of left field, but wading pants designed for fishing can be incredibly useful in the spring. The Patagonia Swiftcurrent Traverse Wading Pants allow me to do everything from trek through snow to cross creeks and rivers. They are entirely waterproof and not too uncomfortable. Baselayers and ski socks underneath are very important. And they should be paired with a wading boot to go over the neoprene booties.

Boots and Shoes

Boots are subjective. I recommend going tall and waterproof with an athletic fit. A good sole and grip is essential. The SOREL Caribou waterproof boots are what I wear throughout the winter or in the spring if it snows. Generally, the taller SOREL BUXTON boots are what I wear in the spring. If I’m going to hike more, I go with the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots. If it’s late spring and you aren’t concerned about getting wet above the ankles, the La Sportiva Akyra II shoes are outstanding.

Miscellaneous Gear

Tripods

There are many different tripods to fit a variety of needs for photographers. For wildlife photography, a tripod that is light enough to not weigh you down when you are on the move and is strong enough to hold heavy lenses is what you’ll need to look for. The Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod and the Sirui W-2004 Waterproof Aluminum Alloy Tripod are excellent. The carbon fiber option is lighter but a little more expensive.

Gimbal

There are many great gimbals out there now. For wildlife photography, I like the Wimberley WH-200 Gimbal Tripod Head II with Quick Release Base. It is strong, easy to use, and has a nice smooth motion when set properly. It is metal, and it can be very cold to touch when it’s frigid outside. Tape or another wrap of some kind could help with that.

Sunglasses

Good, quality polarized sunglasses can really help you see and reduce eye fatigue. Smith and Costa are among a number of top brands. The Smith Embark and Smith Venture sunglasses offer side shields that block light from the side, which can be very useful, especially if there is glare from snow or from water.

Backpacks and Packs

For carrying gear in the field, I highly recommend f-stop backpacks. The Mountain Series packs have gone with me to mountain shoots all over the world, and it’s very rare that I’m shooting in the mountains without one of these packs. I currently use the f-stop ANJA 37L DuraDiamond, the TILOPA 50L DuraDiamond, and the SHINN 80L DuraDiamond backpacks. When I am solo and on most trips, I use the TILOPA. If I am guiding or need more than one big lens with me, I go with the SHINN. I have put these packs through a lot, and they are durable and tough while remarkably comfortable to wear with a lot of weight inside for hours and hours on end. These packs have an endless number of features, but their comfort and ability to withstand weather and more are at the top of my list of reasons to go with one (or all) of these packs. Note: I am an ambassador for f-stop, but I was solely using their backpacks for years prior to coming onto the team.

Drinkwear

One of the most important items you can have with you in the mountains is water. Camelbaks are easy and convenient and can often be incorporated into your pack. A Katadyn BeFree filter packs easy and can get you water in a pinch. The YETI Yonder bottles are fairly lightweight and are generally in a side pocket of my pack. The YETI Rambler bottles are somewhat heavy, but they can keep your coffee warm.

Trekking Poles

As photographers, and especially as wilderness photographers, we carry heavy loads on uneven terrain, and we frequently need to hike to get closer to our subject. Trekking poles are great for keeping balance and hopefully decreasing fatigue. The Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles are excellent. The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are a bit lighter but also nearly twice the price.

Headlamp

I won’t go many places without a headlamp. They are in my packs, glove box, camera kit, and more. For photographers, they care useful for everything from sorting through gear at low light to being a light source when hiking. It’s pretty tough to gear up in the dark or get setup for night sky photography without them. My favorite headlamp is the Fenix HM50R. This headlamp offers good brightness and distance and a rechargeable battery. There are other features, but the rechargeable battery is what makes this the preferred lamp, especially for travel or multiple days in the outdoors. The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp is also a good option, and Black Diamond now makes numerous good rechargeable options.

Multi-tool

The Leatherman Skeletool has come through when things go wrong. Good for gear fixes. They are a bit heavy, but when they are needed, I am grateful to have one.

Other

For Yellowstone and bear country in general, you’ll need bear spray. You can’t fly with it, but many stores around the park carry it. You can also order it and have it waiting for you at your destination.

When photographing wildlife, and especially with big files from high megapixel cameras, it is easy to blow through batteries and SD cards. Pack extra batteries and cards, and be certain your cards are fast enough to take on high burst rate shooting sessions. A good card reader saves a lot of time after the shoot.

You can never have enough lens wipes, and a lens cover can be key in a downpour or snowstorm. Also, with spring bringing snow and unpredictable rain showers, a good lens cover can be very valuable. I’ve used Sony and AquaTech but do not have an overall preference. Do remember it will need to be large enough to cover long wildlife lenses.

Lastly, always consider safety and safety communications. A Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a very lightweight and compact satellite communications tool with an easy-to-access SOS function. Garmin now has an inReach Mini 3 that has some improvements. Better safe in the wilderness.

— Tim Harden

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Disclosure: Some of the companies above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.

Photographers who spend time in the wilderness and traveling should always have safety at the forefront of their minds. Injuries and accidents often happen in the home, but when we mix in travel, road, rail, planes, helicopters, tough terrain, trails, rivers, seas, mountains, wildlife, and more, the need to be more mindful and prepared increases exponentially. A “better safe than sorry” approach can go a long way, and it’s my way of operating when in the field, traveling, and guiding. Below are some recommended safety gear items for wilderness, travel, and adventure photographers.

(Note: While comprehensive, this list isn’t necessarily complete, and it is always recommended that when it comes to health and safety, people seek out the advice of experts with the highest levels of training.)

Global Rescue

Before diving into gear, Global Rescue should be mentioned. I have been a longtime member and fan of Global Rescue and have more recently been a Global Rescue Safe Travel Partner and ambassador. Accidents happen, and injuries happen. Add in that I put myself in the wilderness and sometimes extreme environments while operating on an artificial hip, knowing I have Global Rescue puts my mind at ease. Depending on the membership level, Global Rescue provides medical evacuation and advisory, worldwide field rescue, and more. When I was recently in the Middle East as war broke out in a nearby country, I knew I had Global Rescue as a resource and even had extraction services available if needed. If I dislocate my hip in a remote mountain destination, I have their number on my satellite phone as one of the first numbers to call.

Learn more.

Satellite Phone

While many smartphones now have satellite features that can be used at times, I still go with a satellite phone on most trips (assuming other countries permit them). And every time I wonder how much longer I will need a separate device for satellite calls and texts, I see a need. Spending a lot of winter in Yellowstone, I am sometimes the first on the scene of an accident. Rather than seeing if I have satellite access on other devices, it’s useful to simply turn on the sat phone and make a call. I use the Iridium Extreme satellite phone. Frankly, I went with this one because it was recommended by others. It’s small(ish), light enough, has a good grip, and it can apparently withstand tough weather conditions, though I haven’t had to push mine just yet. I do with the antennae folded in and didn’t seem vulnerable when not in use, but I’m also not hearing about them breaking. I keep mine in a small Pelican 1060 Micro Case for protection. It fits almost perfectly alongside its charging cord. The phone is also useful because it has an SOS button. I keep the contacts of Global Rescue, Grand Teton National Park rangers, Yellowstone National Park rangers, sheriff’s offices, loved ones, and other emergency contacts saved. One more tip: Let others in your party know where your phone is and how to use it in case something happens to you.

Learn more.

Garmin InReach

In addition to a sat phone, I use a Garmin InReach. Overkill to have both? Maybe. But again, better safe than sorry. There are SOS features, tracking tools, and more. It’s always important for someone else to know your whereabouts and plan, but you never know what might happen. You could tell others you’ll be home for dinner then you unexpectedly see a grizzly bear strolling through a meadow and want to say longer. The messaging features are great for keeping people updated about changes of plans.

Learn more.

Smart Watch

The overkill question might emerge here again, but as a guide in extreme environments that are off the grid, a watch is another useful safety tool. I use a Garmin watch but frankly haven’t deeply explored all options. I chose the Garmin for durability, resistance to water, battery life, and features such as tracking distance, altitude, and weather. If you are responsibility for the safety of others, a watch is important for checking someone’s pulse and breathing. That alone justifies a smart watch as a guide.

Learn more.

Bear Spray

In bear country? Bear spray is a must. In the wilderness but not bear country? Could still be useful, especially for safety from other potential threats. It’s important that all members of a group have a canister on hand. Note: You cannot take bear spray on planes, so have a plan for getting some when you arrive to your destination. Depending on the state, you might be able to order a canister and have it delivered to your final destination. In bear country, many grocery stores and gas stations will have it available. If it’s high tourist season, it could be out of stock, so plan for that. Also, have a good holster and know how to use the bear spray. Look at how it functions before heading out into the field. I highly recommend watching the bear spray section of this video.

Learn more.

Water Filter

Plan for the unexpected. When I was young and foolish and got lost alone in the wilderness of the Rockies in Colorado, running out of water made for a bit of a crisis. I now use a Katadyn BeFree water bottle filter. I’ve maybe only used it once, but when in the wilderness, I can fill the soft membrane with water from a stream then have it filter before drinking. It packs small and only weighs 2.5 ounces.

Learn more.

First Aid Kit

With first aid kits, I lean heavily on the better safe than sorry mindset and have several kits. I keep a simply first aid kit in each vehicle then have a more developed kit for when in the field. A wilderness first aid instructor recommended Conterra kits to me long ago, and I have gone with these kits ever since. When you get a first aid kit, see what it’s included but also not included. I sometimes add some items. For wilderness photography, it never hurts to have extra blister care materials as blisters are a common issue. I also keep a very small Moleskine notepad and a pen in a little waterproof bag. I might use this for documenting important information such as heart rate, times, symptoms, and more in an emergency situation. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with your kit before heading out in the field. Know what’s in it and where everything is. Time is often essential in the backcountry.

Learn more.

Sun Protection

As photographers, we are generally very aware of the sun, but in the outdoors, specially at altitude or in areas where there is more sun intensity, it is important to plan for sun protection. Lip balm, sunscreen, hats, masks, gloves, and more can be important for skin safety, but also, from a practical level, the sun can overheat you, tire you, contribute to hydration issues, and sunburn can impact a trip and your own functionality. Lip balm and sunscreen preferences are hard to recommend. Some sunscreens are problematic for sea life and might be banned in places like Hawaii, so pay attention to that. As far as sun masks, I do like the Patagonia Sun Mask. For me, it seems lighter and more breathable than others I’ve had from different companies. I believe I’ve actually had some other neck/facewear contribute to me getting too hot. The Patagonia Sun Gloves are also very lightweight and help keep the tops of your hands from getting too much sun exposure. The fingers remain exposed, which is useful for photographers. Both of these sun protection items are so lightweight and easily packable that they are almost always in my camera kit.

Learn more about the Patagonia Sun Mask.

Learn more about Patagonia Sun Gloves.

Vehicle Kit

Cars have mechanical problems, accidents happen, and traffic or other incidents can keep people stranded on remote roads for many hours. In the colder months, I recommend having a kit in the car that might include first aid essentials, water, snacks, a warm hat, ski socks, and a sleeping bag. I use the Merino Liner Pro gloves from The HEAT Company quite a bit, and these would be good to have on hand in the vehicle. Consider other items that might be important to have if stuck for a while, especially in winter or cold conditions.

Headlamp

As a photographer, a headlamp is a great tool for having light when going through gear in the dark, hiking, and more. In many instances, I use headlamps when I might not expect to. For example, if there is a vehicle issue or someone drops something, and it’s helpful to have both hands free. In tough terrain, you might want your hands free while hiking with artificial light. In a first aid situation, a headlamp keeps your hands free while working, and these lights can help others find you. I recommend lightweight headlamps that have a long battery light and can withstand some tough weather. Black Diamond is always a favorite, and I go with their rechargeable options to minimize environmental impact. It’s also generally easier to figure out how to charge a headlamp than find batteries when in a pinch.

Learn more.

Multi-Tool

Many photographers already keep multi-tools on hand. I love the Leatherman Skeletool series. They aren’t as light as I’d like them to be, but the variety of tools could potentially be very helpful.

Learn more.

Avalanche Beacon

An avalanche beacon might stand out as unnecessary, and for most, there’s probably no need to be concerned about avalanches. However, I guide and am in the field a lot in the winter. If you are using snowshoes or hiking at an incline of at least 30%, having a beacon and knowing how to use it could be critically important. Note: Do not simply trust that 30% number, and make a judgement from there — Some would argue that number should be higher, and others would point out that avalanches can travel to lower, flatter areas with a lesser incline.

Learn more.

Compass

Most of us have map apps and other digital tools for navigation, but if those fail, it’s important to not only have a compass but know how to use it. Below is the compass I keep on hand, but I do not know whether or not it is the best.

Learn more.

Wilderness First Aid Pocket Guide

If you have had wilderness first aid training, much of the material in this pocket guide will be familiar. And you likely know it’s easy to forget steps and practices for caring for someone in the wilderness if it’s not continuously in practice or if you are also taking on the stress of an emergency. I keep these in my first aid kit.

Learn more.

Miscellaneous Other Items

• Snacks
  • Think nutrition as the primary need with snacks. Nuts, protein bars, and other items that offer fat, sugar, and protein should be considered.

• Extra Socks and a Beanie
  • Keeping your head and feet warm is important in cooler conditions and in many emergencies.

• Whistle
  • Having a whistle accessible can be useful if in distress, in need of attention, or need to be found by rescuers. See here.

• Emergency Blanket
  • These are easy to pack and can help you keep warm if needed. See here.

• Duct Tape
  • You never know when you might need it.

• Over-the-Counter Medications
  • I want to want to be very cautious about any recommendations here, but many people consider anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrhea, and other items.

• Electrolyte Tablets
  • I like the Nuun tablets, but there are many options for getting electrolytes and helping with hydration. See here.

— Tim Harden

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Disclosure: Some of the companies above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.

Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole attract visitors from all over the world who want to experience the expansive beauty and wildlife that the Tetons and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem have to offer. From the spectacular peaks of the Teton Range to the bears, bison, moose, elk, and more, there’s so much in this region that a lifetime isn’t enough to experience this area in full. Some photographers, writers, and biologists have given much of their careers to this region and have contributed books for all of us to enjoy and learn from. Below are some recommended titles.

Seasons of Yellowstone — Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

by Thomas D. Mangelsen

Based out of Jackson Hole, Tom Mangelsen is perhaps the most well-known photographer in the region and even has a popular gallery in downtown Jackson. “Seasons of Yellowstone” is a wildlife-focused book that offers some of Mangelsen’s best work in the region. The book is broken up into seasons as the title might suggest and is especially noteworthy for the bear photography.

Learn more.

Bison: Portrait of an Icon

by Audrey Hall and Chase Reynolds Ewald

Those who visit the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem likely have an appreciation for bison. Audrey Hall and Chase Reynolds Ewald share their affinity for this magnificent animal through photography and written word in “Bison: Portrait of an Icon.” This book not only beautifully captures bison and their habitat, it also details some of their story in North America, and why these animals are iconic and perhaps even sacred.

Learn more.

The Ecological Buffalo

by Wes Olson and Johane Janelle

Many are aware of the saga that unfolded for bison in North America after the arrival of the Europeans and expansion into the West. An animal that lived in immeasurable abundance was near extinction before rebounding in the 1900s. In “The Ecological Buffalo,” Wes Olson and Johane Janelle reveal just how essential this keystone species is to ecosystems and how everything from vegetation to birds benefit from healthy populations of bison.

Learn more.

Ansel Adams in the National Parks: Photographs from America’s Wild Places

by Ansel Adams and Andrea Stillman

Perhaps no photographer is better known for his work in National Parks than Ansel Adams, and his 1942 photo, The Tetons and Snake River, is a masterpiece from Grand Teton National Park. This book is an inspirational book of Adams’ work from National Parks throughout the United States.

Learn more.

American Buffalo: In Search of a Lost Icon

by Steven Rinella

Best known for his hunting show, MeatEater, Steven Rinella broke through the hunting niche by making a hunting show with widespread appeal. He represented, what he and many would contend, what it means to be a meat eater and the process that entails from the hunt to cooking. His appreciation for and interest in animals made it more than just a hunting show, and his obsession has made him very much a wildlife historian of sorts. After drawing a bison hunting tag in Alaska, Rinella pursues these animals, both in the field but also through trying to document their history in North America. “American Buffalo” is a great book for those wanting to know about the fall and recovery of bison in the U.S. as well as why these animals are significant to this land and the nation’s history.

Learn more.

Bears of North America

by Stan Tekiela

Stan Tekiela is a naturalist and photographer whose 160 page book offers some of his select photos of black, brown, and polar bears alongside facts and anecdotes about these animals. At the end of the book, he includes video links about where one might be able to view bears.

Learn more.

The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western North America

by David Allen Sibley

The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western North America is a comprehensive contribution from David Allen Sibley. This 450+ page book details birds one would encounter in the Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park regions and beyond. Detailed illustrations of birds and distribution maps make this book a very useful resource in the field.

Learn more.

50 Wildlife Hotspots: Grand Teton National Park and Surrounding Communities

by Moose Henderson

Grand Teton National Park serves photographers well by having a good number of “spots” where specific wildlife sightings can often occur. Additionally, many of these areas are known to have stunning scenery that are great for both wildlife and landscape photography. In “50 Wildlife Hotspots,” Moose Henderson breaks down some of his favorite places to photograph wildlife in the region, and even includes site specific tips that are incredibly useful.

Learn more.

Select Peaks of Greater Yellowstone: A Mountaineering History & Guide

by Thomas Turiano

Though it’s written for mountaineers and mountaineering enthusiasts, “Select Peaks of Greater Yellowstone” is a massive volume that details the characteristics, routes, and more about the significant mountains of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Much of the information is not relevant to me as an alpine, landscape, and wildlife photographer, but it remains an invaluable resource, especially when seeking landscapes and peaks to photograph.

Learn more.

Hiking Grand Teton National Park

by Bill Schneider

Let’s face it, summers are crowded in Grand Teton National Park. But with warmer weather, more hiking is open to visitors, and hiking is the best way to escape the more crowded areas of the region. This guide is a great resource for those interested in putting some miles in.

Learn more.

Lonely Planet Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks

by Regis St Louis

Like all Lonely Planet travel guides, their book on Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks offers a comprehensive breakdown of hiking areas, places to potentially spot wildlife, history, and more.

Learn more.

— Tim Harden

Disclosure: Some of the booksellers above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.

Winter is a very special time for wildlife photographers in the National Parks of the Rockies. As frigid temperatures move in, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain National Parks see far fewer guests and photographers often have the feeling that they are alone in the wilderness of these special places. For me, there is no better time than winter. While you might lose some of the excitement of rut behavior, you gain snow-covered gorgeous landscapes and the feeling of solitude in some of the world’s most beautiful places. But the tradeoff is harsh weather conditions. Fortunately, the Rockies are generally dry, so the cold can feel less imposing than in more humid climates. But with good gear planning, the cold can be manageable, and its a great time to photograph wildlife. In this post, we break down top recommendations for what to pack for gear, clothing, and more for winter photography travel to Yellowstone, the Tetons, and other areas of the Rocky Mountains.

Photography Gear

When it comes to cameras and lenses, there is no set answer for what to take to Yellowstone or for wildlife in the Rockies in general. Photographers all have different priorities and budgets. That said, the following recommendations align with commonly preferred approaches to wildlife in Yellowstone and what I generally bring to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks in the winter.

Camera Bodies

My go-to camera body for Yellowstone and wildlife photography in general is a Sony A1. Sony now makes an A1 II that offers some new features, but I like the A1 (and would like the A1 II) because it’s a full-frame, mirrorless, high megapixel, fast sports body that checks every box for me for wildlife photography. Note: I don’t prefer the A1 over the A1 II. There just aren’t enough reasons for the upgrade from the A1.

Higher MP cameras are important for my shooting. For one, higher MP images give me the ability to crop while maintaining good resolution. There are days that the animals are simply so far that the composition I might want can only be achieved with significant cropping. Additionally, I like photographing individual aspects of animals such as a bison eye or bear claw. A good telephoto lens and a high MP camera can go a long way. Because it’s good to have a second body on hand, I also bring a Sony A7R5 and/or a Sony A7 IV. For me, the A7R5 is slower than the A1 but offers more megapixels. The A7 IV offers the fewest number of megapixels but is excellent at low light. While wildlife is my focus, animals can be tougher to find in the winter. A camera setup for landscapes can be great to have on hand.

For Nikon users, comparable bodies to the Sony would be the Nikon Z9 (which is 45.7MP and offers insane burst rates depending on the mode) or the Nikon Z8 (which is a 45.7MP camera that can reach up to 20 frames per second raw). The Nikon Z6 III offers 24.5 MP and up to 20fps raw).

And while there are many more outstanding cameras to consider, we’ll keep this list to the “big three” (Sony, Nikon, Canon) and end with Canon. The Canon R5 and R5 II are phenomenal fast, high MP mirrorless bodies that best compare to the Sony A1 and Nikon Z8. The Canon R1 is Canon’s flagship camera and is a great option (with fewer MPs but higher frame rate and other features), and the like with Sony and Nikon, there are a variety of other options that would also make for great cameras for photographing wildlife.

If you are considering other camera brands, please keep durability in mind. From moisture to cold, there is a lot that can impact gear. Batteries, for example, might drain faster the colder it is outside. A good camera for winter should be able to withstand some moisture and have batteries that don’t drain too quickly.

Lenses

Sony

A lens with good reach goes a long way with wildlife. In winter, when there is snow on the ground, using the reach of a lens might be far easier than trekking through snow. For me, prior to using the Sony 600mm f/4, the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G lens was the lens for me in the Park. That range of 200-600 can cover a wide variety of situations, and in many instances, this lens is less restrictive than a 600. Sometimes with the 600, animals are closer or move closer, and I am stuck at 600. Another favorite for many is a 400mm f/2.8; however for my needs and for travel, I use a 300mm f/2.8. This is a great lens that costs less than a 400 and can be well-paired with a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter. Note: Be sure to have a good lens foot for these larger lenses.

In addition to these long lenses, I like to be prepared for scenarios in which the animals are farther away or even not present at all. When I shoot in the winter, I like to be ready for landscape shooting as well, so that I am coming home with shots. And when conditions make it harder to get as close to animals as you’d like, it’s good to be ready to take landscape photos with animals present in the photos. A 16-35mm f/2.8 lens can cover a variety of needs, and a 24-70mm f2.8 can be great to have along as well. And if those bigger lenses above are too big, a 70-200mm f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) is another excellent option.

Nikon

For Nikon users, the NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 lens can cover a wide range of focal lengths and be great as a (nearly) all-purpose lens for wildlife photography at a moderate price. The NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens is an impressive lens that includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter that enables photographers to easily switch to a 800mm f5.6 — a very cool feature. Similarly, the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens offers a lower aperture than the 600mm but also includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to easily switch this lens to a 560mm f/4. Again, do be sure to have a lens foot for these lenses.

Also for consideration: A NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 and a NIKKOR Z 70-200 f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) can be excellent lenses for landscape and wildlife photography.

Canon

The Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 lens covers a broad range of focal lengths and is moderately priced though it doesn’t have some of those lower apertures that can be great for speed and blurring backgrounds. Canon also offers an RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 that has lower f-stops. For those looking to go (very) long, Canon has an RF 800mm f/5.6 lens, and for a little less reach, Canon has an RF 400mm f/2.8 and an RF 600mm f/4 lens that are ideal for wildlife photography — especially for bears, wolves, and other animals that you’ll want to stay a little further away from.

As for smaller lenses, Canon’s RF 15-35mm f/2.8, the 24-70mm f/2.8, and their 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are great to have.

Clothing, Apparel, Boots, Baselayers

While winter weather can sometimes feel pleasant during the day, it is essential to be prepared for the elements when getting out in the field in the winter in the Mountain West. Imagine snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures. Gear nowadays cane helps us adapt to most conditions. Some favorite apparel items for winter are listed below.

Gloves

Cold hands can making photography pretty difficult. Additionally, almost everything we might need to touch — from our camera bodies to our tripods — contain metal or other materials that can be cold to the touch. For me, gloves from The Heat Company, have been a game changer, as I can stay warm while not giving up function. My go-to gloves are below.

The Heat Company Merino Liner Pro gloves are great for when the temperatures get a bit chilly. Frankly, I generally want to avoid wearing gloves as nothing beats the feel and functionality of having bare hands on a camera. But when cold temperatures restrict functionality or impact stamina, I’m eager to get gloves on. For that first layer, the Merino Liner Pro gloves are a warm liner glove with an outstanding fit with great grip and the ability to use with camera touchscreens. These gloves have a pocket for handwarmers, and they are also very breathable, which is essential for situations in which hands sweat, and you need to keep from having cold, wet hands and gloves.

In addition to their liners, shells from the Heat Company keep my hands warm and dry. Their liners work perfectly with The Heat Company’s Shell — a windproof and water repellent mitten that has a great grip and magnets for holing the pull-back coverings for the thumbs and fingers. A leash of sorts that can be connected to your wrists make it easy to take these on and off as needed.

Baselayers

Layering is everything in the winter. If you’re an active photographer, you might frequently add or shed layers. If you’re going to put in some miles in the cold, you might want to start with minimal layering then add on after a hike to avoid sweating then having to deal with being cold and wet later.

Patagonia is a big favorite on this end for baselayers, and you’ll definitely find that preference in the items below. Note: While Patagonia is what I wear, this list should offer guidance as they types of products I go to for layering. Some other companies might offer comparable options. Also, it is worth noting that I also like layering options for my head on winter days. For this reason, I’ll generally wear more than one hooded apparel item at one time.

On warmer (yet cold) winter days, the Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover Hoody and Patagonia Capilene Thermal Hoody are warmer technical tops that are breathable and designed for function. The Patagonia R2 TechFace Pullover is outstanding. I was even involved in the production of videos for this item. As a general first layer for cold days, the Patagonia Capeline Thermal Crewneck is also a great option.

As for baselayer bottoms, I like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms for cool days and the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Bottoms for colder days.

For keeping covered and even keeping warm, neck gaiters such as the Patagonia R1 Daily Neck Gaiter or the Patagonia Micro D Gaiter are great options. Patagonia used to make an incredible wool neck gaiter that is one of my all-time favorite pieces. Unfortunately, they no longer make it. I regret not buying 10 of them. A comparable option is likely the Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Neck Gaiter. For warmer days, consider the Patagonia Sun Mask or a Buff. Regardless of what you choose, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of good headwear, gloves, socks, and a neck gaiter in the winter. These items are essential for keeping warm and keeping you out in the elements.

Socks

My preference for socks is midweight ski and snowboard socks. Though I have heavier and thicker socks, I’ve never felt the need to go heavier if my boots have good insulation, and I want to avoid sweating as much as possible. The Smartwool Merino Wool Ski Socks are a current favorite. The Black Diamond Merino Compression Ski Socks are also outstanding but might feel somewhat snug (as they are intended to). These options aren’t too much on warmer days, and as the temperatures change throughout the day as they generally do in the Rocky Mountains, I will lower and raise the socks to maintain just the right amount of warmth.

Headwear

If you find a good beanie, buy two. It seems like most outdoors apparel companies make good beanies. But a favorite can be hard to find and preferences are subjective. Beanies are recommended for colder days as regulating head temperatures can have a big impact on how warm and cold you are throughout a day.

Jackets

For cold winter conditions, a waterproof, wind-resistant, durable, hooded, insulated jacket is essential. On most cold days, I wear the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, which is fairly lightweight, packable, windproof, and water resistant. However, I don;t consider it durable if I am moving through brush. For a much heavier but waterproof option, I go with the Patagonia Jackson Glacier Jacket. If it’s not too frigid but I want to stay dry, a good waterproof ski shell over good baselayers might work just fine. And for the extreme cold, the Patagonia Stormshadow Parka is the warmest jacket I have by far. It can even get hot in there.

Pants

On mild winter days, I generally go with the Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants, which are windproof and water resistant and generally perfect, but the water resistance can only do so much, and I would not characterize these pants as quick drying.

For days when it’s very cold and snowy, I would recommend ski pants or bibs. Current favorites are the Patagonia Storm Shift Pants, the Patagonia Powder Town Pants, and the Freedom Pants from The North Face. All of these options should be worn with baselayer pants. If you are going with pants, don’t forget a good belt.

Bibs make for a great choice if you plan to really be in the snow. They can be warmer than pants as well. I wear the Patagonia SnowDrifter Bibs and the Patagonia Powder Town Bibs. Though I haven’t worn them yet, I am very interested in the Black Diamond Recon Stretch Bibs. That stretch could go a long way when trekking around in the snow, up and down riverbanks, and when moving back and forth from the tripod.

Boots

Boots are heavily subjective. I recommend going tall and waterproof with an athletic fit (if possible). A good sole and grip is essential. The SOREL Caribou waterproof boots are what I wear throughout the winter. They are heavy, but they are tough, warm, and comfortable.

Miscellaneous Gear

Tripods

There are many different tripods to fit a variety of needs for photographers. For wildlife photography, a tripod that is light enough to not weigh you down and is strong enough to hold heavy lenses is what you’ll need to look for. The Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod and the Sirui W-2004 Waterproof Aluminum Alloy Tripod are excellent. The carbon fiber option is lighter. I’ve heard it said that the aluminum is stronger in extreme cold. I have yet to find out the hard way which is stronger.

Gimbal

There are many great-looking and high functioning gimbals out there now. For wildlife photography, I like the Wimberley WH-200 Gimbal Tripod Head II with Quick Release Base. It is strong, easy to use, and has a nice smooth motion when set properly. Note: The metal on this gimbal gets very cold. If there is something you can wrap around the main beam to avoid as much cold to the touch, it’s worth considering adding that.

Sunglasses

Good, quality polarized sunglasses can really help you see and reduce eye fatigue. Smith and Costa are among a number of top brands. The Smith Embark and Smith Venture sunglasses offer side shields that block light from the side, which can be very useful, especially if there is glare from snow. Smith goggles can also be great for full coverage when you are surrounded by snow and likely to be impacted by glare.

Backpacks and Packs

For carrying gear in the field, I highly recommend f-stop backpacks, and I am proudly a Pathfinder Ambassador for f-stop. The Mountain Series packs have gone with me to mountain shoots all over the world. I currently use the f-stop ANJA 37L DuraDiamond, the TILOPA 50L DuraDiamond, and the SHINN 80L DuraDiamond backpacks.

When I am solo and on most trips, I use the TILOPA. If I am guiding or need more than one big lens with me, I go with the SHINN. I have put these packs through a lot, and they are durable and tough while remarkably comfortable to wear for hours and hours on end. These packs have an endless number of features, but their comfort and ability to withstand weather and more are at the top of my list of reasons to go with one (or all) of these packs. If it’s -20 degrees and snowing, I’m confidently and comfortably carrying an f-stop pack.

Drinkwear

One of the most important items you can have with you in the mountains is water. Camelbaks are easy and convenient and can often be incorporated into your pack.

The YETI Yonder bottles are fairly lightweight. The YETI Rambler bottles are not lightweight, but they can keep your coffee warm. I always want to pack light, so the YETI Yonder or a Camelbak might be my first choice in general, but the YETI Rambler will keep liquids warm or from getting to cold or even icy. They are heavy, but sometimes that’s worth the trade.

Trekking Poles

As photographers, and especially as wilderness photographers, we carry heavy loads on uneven terrain, and we frequently need to hike to get to our subject. Trekking poles are great for keeping balance and hopefully decreasing fatigue. In the snow, they can be invaluable for balance, especially when you are wearing a heavy pack. The Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles are excellent. The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are a bit lighter but also nearly twice the price.

Headlamp

I won’t go many places without a headlamp, even if it’s just in the glove box of the truck. In the winter, everything from the weather to an injury can dramatically impact your plans for the day. Lights are safety gear when conditions are harsh and plans are derailed.

For photographers, they care useful for everything from sorting through gear at low light to being a light source when hiking. My favorite headlamp is the Fenix HM50R. This headlamp offers good brightness and distance and a rechargeable battery. There are other features, but the rechargeable battery is what makes this the preferred lamp, especially for travel or multiple days in the outdoors. The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp is also a good option. Batteries don’t last as long as you’d like in the cold. A rechargeable headlamp is the way to go.

Multi-tool

The Leatherman Skeletool has come through when things go wrong. Good for gear fixes.

Other

Even in winter, you’ll need bear spray. Better safe than sorry. You can’t fly with it, but many stores around the Park carry it. You can also order it and have it waiting for you at your destination.

When photographing wildlife in the cold, and especially with big files from these high megapixel cameras, it is easy to blow through batteries. And you’ll need SD cards that are known to be tough in the cold or even in frosty conditions. Pack extra batteries and cards, and be certain your cards are fast enough to take on high burst rate shooting sessions. I rarely use warmers for my hands or feet, but many consider them essential. The Heat Company makes good ones that are compatible with their mittens. Warmers can also be very useful for keeping batteries warm over the course of a day. If you don’t have warmers for your batteries, consider keeping them in a pocket that’s as close to your body as possible so that body heat can help keep them from getting too cold.

You can never have enough lens wipes, and a lens cover can be key in a downpour or snowstorm. Lastly, always consider safety and safety communications. A Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a very lightweight and compact satellite communications tool with an easy-to-access SOS function. Better safe in the wilderness or even in the car if you have car problems in an area that doesn’t have cell service. For that reason, you might also consider a satellite phone. Every minute matters in the backcountry in the winter. I use the Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone. I am also an ambassador for Global Rescue and highly recommend a Global Rescue membership so that you are best prepared for an emergency.

If you are planning to hit a trail or trek through the snow, snowshoes can help a great deal. The MSR Evo Ascent snowshoes are fairly lightweight and are great snowshoes. With respect to sizing, do consider the weight of your gear when deciding what size to get.

And even if you don’t plan long treks in the snow, ice is often a factor, even if you are shooting close to the car or a road. When there is ice, ice spikes can be gear gear for both safety and mobility. If there is ice and any incline or decline on the trail or road, you might not be able to move fast enough to get to where you need to get the shot. The Black Diamond Distance Spike Traction Device goes over your boots or shoes. You won’t want to wear them in the vehicle, and they are easy enough to take on and off outside the car/van/truck. When thinking about sizing, remember your winter boots might be fairly large, and spikes need to wrap around those potentially large soles.

— Tim Harden

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Disclosure: Some of the companies above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.

For many wildlife photographers, the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is in the fall. Depending on the animal, many species are in the rut and engaged in exciting behavior for those fortunate enough to encounter these animals. By mid-September, the summer crowds have died down, and cooler weather is changing animal behavior while generally making it more pleasant to be outside for long hours. But the fall is also a time when a variety of weather conditions can make for dramatic extremes and the need to plan for just about everything. In this post, we break down top recommendations for what to pack for gear and clothing for fall photography travel to Yellowstone.

Photography Gear

When it comes to cameras and lenses, there is no set answer for what to take to Yellowstone. After all, each photographer has their own idea of how and what they want to shoot. That said, the following recommendations align with commonly preferred approaches to wildlife in Yellowstone and what I generally bring to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks in the fall.

Camera Bodies

My go-to camera body for Yellowstone is a Sony A1. Sony now makes an A1 II that offers some new features, but I like the A1 (and would like the A1 II) because it’s a full-frame, mirrorless, high megapixel, fast sports body that checks every box for me for wildlife photography. One main reason I want a higher MP body is for the ability to crop while maintaining good resolution. There are days that the animals are simply so far that the composition I might want can only be achieved with significant cropping. Additionally, I like photographing individual aspects of animals such as a bison eye or bear claw. A good telephoto lens and a high MP camera can go a long way. Because it’s good to have a second body on hand, I also bring a Sony A7R5 and/or a Sony A7 IV. For me, the A7R5 is slower than the A1 but offers more megapixels. The A7 IV offers the fewest number of megapixels but is excellent at low light.

For Nikon users, comparable bodies would be the Nikon Z8 (which is a 45.7MP camera that can reach up to 20 frames per second raw). The Nikon Z6 III offers 24.5 MP and up to 20fps raw).

And while there are many more outstanding cameras to consider, we’ll keep this list to the big three (Sony, Nikon, Canon) and end with Canon. The Canon R5 and R5 II are phenomenal fast, high MP mirrorless bodies that best compare to the Sony A1 and Nikon Z8. The Canon R1 is Canon’s flagship camera and is a great option (with fewer MPs but higher frame rate and other features), and the like with Sony and Nikon, there are a variety of other options that would also make for great cameras for photographing wildlife.

Lenses

Sony

A lens with good reach goes a long way with wildlife. For me, prior to using the Sony 600mm f/4, the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G lens was the lens for me in the Park. That range of 200-600 can cover a wide variety of situations, and in many instances, this lens is less restrictive than a 600. Sometimes with the 600, animals are closer or move closer, and I am stuck at 600. Another favorite for many is a 400mm f/2.8; however for my needs and for travel, I use a 300mm f/2.8. This is a great lens that costs less than a 400 and can be well-paired with a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter. Note: Be sure to have a good lens foot for these larger lenses.

In addition to these long lenses, I like to be prepared for scenarios in which the animals are farther away or even not present at all. A 16-35mm f/2.8 lens can cover a variety of needs, and a 24-70mm f2.8 can be great to have along as well. And if those bigger lenses above are too big, a 70-200mm f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) is another excellent option.

Nikon

For Nikon users, the NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 lens can cover a wide range of focal lengths and be great as a (nearly) all-purpose lens for wildlife photography at a moderate price. The NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens is an impressive lens that includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter that enables photographers to easily switch to a 800mm f5.6 — a very cool feature. Similarly, the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens offers a lower aperture than the 600mm but also includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to easily switch this lens to a 560mm f/4. Again, do be sure to have a lens foot for these lenses.

Also for consideration: A NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 and a NIKKOR Z 70-200 f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) can be excellent lenses for landscape and wildlife photography.

Canon

The Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 lens covers a broad range of focal lengths and is moderately priced though it doesn’t have some of those lower apertures that can be great for speed and blurring backgrounds. Canon also offers an RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 that has lower f-stops. For those looking to go (very) long, Canon has an RF 800mm f/5.6 lens, and for a little less reach, Canon has an RF 400mm f/2.8 and an RF 600mm f/4 lens that are ideal for wildlife photography — especially for bears, wolves, and other animals that you’ll want to stay a little further away from.

As for smaller lenses, Canon’s RF 15-35mm f/2.8, the 24-70mm f/2.8, and their 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are great to have.

Clothing, Apparel, Boots, Baselayers

Many are intimidated by weather in the Northern Rockies, especially when fall weather could be as warm as the 90s or cold enough to bring deep snow, but great clothes and smart layering can make most weather manageable. Some favorite apparel items are listed below.

Gloves

Cold hands can have a big impact in the field. Since wearing gloves from The Heat Company, I couldn’t be more pleased, and I haven’t looked back. The Heat Company offers a good selection of gloves. My go-to gloves are below.

The Heat Company Merino Liner Pro gloves are great for when the temperatures get a bit chilly. Frankly, I generally want to avoid wearing gloves as nothing beats the feel and functionality of having bare hands on a camera. But when cold temperatures restrict functionality or impact stamina, I’m eager to get gloves on. For that first layer, the Merino Liner Pro gloves are a warm liner glove with an outstanding fit with great grip and the ability to use with camera touchscreens. These gloves have a pocket for handwarmers, and they are also very breathable, which is essential for situations in which hands sweat, and you need to keep from having cold, wet hands and gloves.

In addition to their liners, I like to have shells from the Heat Company on hand (literally) too. These liners work perfectly with The Heat Company’s Shell — a windproof and water repellent mitten that has a great grip and magnets for holing the pull-back coverings for the thumbs and fingers.

Baselayers

For baselayers, Patagonia is a big favorite on this end, and you’ll definitely find that preference in the items below. Note: While Patagonia is what I wear, this list should offer guidance, as some other companies offer comparable products.

When the weather is a bit warmer, the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody is a preferred piece. This long-sleeved hoody is so lightweight, I generally wear this instead of a t-shirt. It is not only extremely light, it dries quickly, is very breathable, and I like having my arms, head, and neck covered at times.

When it’s cooler out, the Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover Hoody and Patagonia Capilene Thermal Hoody are warmer technical tops that are breathable and designed for function. I will wear these over the Capilene Cool Daily Hoody as I like having two hood weight options between two tops at one time. And when it’s colder out, the Patagonia R2 TechFace Pullover is outstanding. I was even involved in the production of videos for this item.

As for baselayer bottoms, I like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms for cool days and the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Bottoms for cold days.

For keeping covered and even keeping warm, neck gaiters such as the Patagonia R1 Daily Neck Gaiter or the Patagonia Micro D Gaiter are great options. For warmer conditions, consider the Patagonia Sun Mask or a Buff.

Socks

My preference for socks is midweight ski and snowboard socks. Though I have heavier and thicker socks, I’ve never felt the need to go heavier, and I want to avoid sweating as much as possible. The Smartwool Merino Wool Ski Socks are a current favorite. They aren’t too much on cool days, and as the temperatures change throughout the day as they generally do in the Rocky Mountains, I will lower and raise the socks to maintain just the right amount of warmth. When it gets much colder, I rely more on warmer baselayer pants and boots to deal with the cold rather than thicker socks.

Headwear

If you find a good beanie, buy two. It seems like most outdoors apparel companies make good beanies. But a favorite can be hard to find and preferences are subjective. Beanies are recommended for colder days as regulating head temperatures can have a big impact on how warm and cold you are throughout a day.

Jackets

In the Rockies, the Patagonia Nano Puff is so commonly seen, one might think it’s mandatory apparel. Like many outdoors enthusiasts, the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody might be my most frequently worn jacket. This jacket is windproof, water-resistant, and very lightweight and packable. It almost has no impact on my load when traveling or in the field, so it often comes with me. And when it gets a bit colder, I do like this jacket under a heavier coat. Note: These jackets will take on some water, but they aren’t waterproof. It’s always good to have a waterproof jacket.

Frigid cold and snow happens in the fall. On most cold days, I wear the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, which is fairly lightweight, packable, windproof, and water resistant. For a much heavier but waterproof option, I go with the Patagonia Jackson Glacier Jacket. If it’s not too frigid but I want to stay dry, a good waterproof ski shell over good baselayers might work just fine.

Pants

The search for the perfect all-around fall pants is an ongoing quest. Presently I generally go with the Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants, which are windproof and water resistant and generally perfect, but in a hard rain, that water resistance can only do so much, and one can get wet, and I would not characterize these pants as quick drying.

It can get pretty cold and snowstorms happen. In that case, I would recommend ski pants. Current favorites are the Patagonia Storm Shift Pants, the Patagonia Powder Town Pants, and the Freedom Pants from The North Face. All of these options should be worn with baselayer pants. And don’t forget a good belt.

Boots

Boots are heavily subjective. I recommend going tall and waterproof with an athletic fit (if possible). A good sole and grip is essential. The SOREL Caribou waterproof boots are what I wear throughout the winter or if it snows. Generally, the taller SOREL BUXTON boots are what I wear in the fall. If I’m going to hike more, I go with the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots.

Miscellaneous Gear

Tripods

There are many different tripods to fit a variety of needs for photographers. For wildlife photography, a tripod that is light enough to not weigh you down and is strong enough to hold heavy lenses is what you’ll need to look for. The Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod and the Sirui W-2004 Waterproof Aluminum Alloy Tripod are excellent. The carbon fiber option is lighter. I’ve heard it said that the aluminum is stronger in extreme cold. I have yet to find out the hard way which is stronger.

Gimbal

There are many great-looking and high functioning gimbals out there now. For wildlife photography, I like the Wimberley WH-200 Gimbal Tripod Head II with Quick Release Base. It is strong, easy to use, and has a nice smooth motion when set properly.

Sunglasses

Good, quality polarized sunglasses can really help you see and reduce eye fatigue. Smith and Costa are among a number of top brands. The Smith Embark and Smith Venture sunglasses offer side shields that block light from the side, which can be very useful, especially if there is glare from snow.

Backpacks and Packs

For carrying gear in the field, I highly recommend f-stop backpacks. The Mountain Series packs have gone with me to mountain shoots all over the world. I currently use the f-stop ANJA 37L DuraDiamond, the TILOPA 50L DuraDiamond, and the SHINN 80L DuraDiamond backpacks. When I am solo and on most trips, I use the TILOPA. If I am guiding or need more than one big lens with me, I go with the SHINN. I have put these packs through a lot, and they are durable and tough while remarkably comfortable to wear for hours and hours on end. These packs have an endless number of features, but their comfort and ability to withstand weather and more are at the top of my list of reasons to go with one (or all) of these packs.

Drinkwear

One of the most important items you can have with you in the mountains is water. Camelbaks are easy and convenient and can often be incorporated into your pack. A Katadyn BeFree filter packs easy and can get you water in a pinch. The YETI Yonder bottles are fairly lightweight. The YETI Rambler bottles are not lightweight, but they can keep your coffee warm.

Trekking Poles

As photographers, and especially as wilderness photographers, we carry heavy loads on uneven terrain, and we frequently need to hike to get to our subject. Trekking poles are great for keeping balance and hopefully decreasing fatigue. The Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles are excellent. The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are a bit lighter but also nearly twice the price.

Headlamp

I won’t go many places without a headlamp, even if it’s just in the glove box of the truck. For photographers, they care useful for everything from sorting through gear at low light to being a light source when hiking. My favorite headlamp is the Fenix HM50R. This headlamp offers good brightness and distance and a rechargeable battery. There are other features, but the rechargeable battery is what makes this the preferred lamp, especially for travel or multiple days in the outdoors. The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp is also a good option.

Multi-tool

The Leatherman Skeletool has come through when things go wrong. Good for gear fixes.

Other

For Yellowstone, you’ll need bear spray. You can’t fly with it, but many stores around the Park carry it. You can also order it and have it waiting for you at your destination. When photographing wildlife, and especially with big files from these high megapixel cameras, it is easy to blow through batteries and SD cards. Pack extra batteries and cards, and be certain your cards are fast enough to take on high burst rate shooting sessions. You can never have enough lens wipes, and a lens cover can be key in a downpour or snowstorm. Lastly, always consider safety and safety communications. A Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a very lightweight and compact satellite communications tool with an easy-to-access SOS function. Better safe in the wilderness.

— Tim Harden

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–

Disclosure: Some of the companies above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.