ESCORTED TOURS YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER DESTINATIONS
of Yellowstone’, as every stop turned into the sighting of a new species; from bighorn sheep perched on the steep hillside to a rough-legged hawk spied sitting on top of a tree, having flown south from the Arctic for winter. That safari comparison seemed
ASK THE EXPERT
Ray Steward, UK & Ireland country manager, Tauck: “In winter, the normal crowds are gone, so the opportunities to see wildlife are incredible, and the park has a special majesty and serenity. Wildlife viewing is enhanced in winter because ground cover is thinner and animals stand out more clearly against a white background of snow. Also, heat from the park’s geothermal features can reduce snow accumulations in specific areas, attracting grazing animals that dig through the shallow snow to reach underlying grasses. Those grazing animals in turn often attract wolves and other predators that help make a winter experience in Yellowstone so memorable.”
even more fitting later as we pulled over to watch a young bald eagle and a handful of ravens feeding off the remains of a coyote carcass, and two mature bald eagles perched in the treetops above. In a blink-and-you’ll- miss-it moment, one of the older pair swooped down from the trees and challenged the smaller birds for the kill, scaring them off in a supreme display of dominance worthy of any lion on the plains of Africa. Sure, it’s a few degrees cooler and on a different continent from a typical
Where to stay
Chico Hot Springs Resort, Pray, Montana This mountain lodge-style spa resort (pictured) has friendly service and a homely vibe, built in 1900 around natural hot springs that now feed the pool. Its simple, spacious rooms are split between the main building and a host of cabins and cottages, plus there’s a poolside grill and saloon with live music to complement the main restaurant.
chicohotsprings.com
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Yellowstone National Park As one of only two park properties open in winter, this grand dame is popular year-round. Built in the 1930s, it shows its age in places, but is set to be refurbished in the next couple of years.
yellowstonenationalparklodges.com
Old Faithful Snow Lodge, Yellowstone National Park The park’s alternative winter accommodation is newer and more comfortable, with well-appointed rooms, ski lodge- style décor and a homely restaurant serving hearty portions. However, its main selling point is its proximity to Old Faithful geyser and to snowshoeing or cross-country skiing routes.
yellowstonenationalparklodges.com
The Wort Hotel, Jackson Hole, Wyoming This heritage property has strong western roots, displaying its 1940s blackjack table and roulette wheel in the bar, and with the town’s cowboy culture dominating its artwork. It’s the most luxurious hotel on this tour, and has a great central location.
worthotel.com
LEFT: Red fox, Lamar Valley
safari, but this extraordinary region has a surprisingly similar appeal for adventurous travellers in search of a wildlife break with a difference. As America gets ready to celebrate
the foundation of one of its greatest achievements – preserving vast tracts of its wildest landscapes for future generations – now is the time to go back to where it all began.
3 March 2016
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