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Old Times on the Grand Tour
"The program was wonderful from start to finish. Julianne is an excellent instructor. She is knowledgeable and her love of the park and the wildlife is evident in her presentation." Old Times on the Grand Tour, 2007
Fall Wolf & Elk Discovery
"Brad Bulin helped make Yellowstone as an ecosystem come alive." -Fall Wolf & Elk Discovery, 2006
"Brad's expertise along with a wildlife biology degree made him a Yellowstone expert. His sincere love of Yellowstone, a two-sided opinion for each controversial topic, and a great sense of humor make learning fun." -Fall Wolf & Elk Discovery, 2006
"Brad's one of the best instructors we've had. His breadth of knowledge on all animals and aspects of wildlife and Yellowstone was truly impressive, a great resource. He was very aware of all class members' interests and desires." -Fall Wolf & Elk Discovery, 2006
"I really think this is a first-rate program for people like us with no extensive experiences in an environment like Yellowstone. We could not be more satisfied with our experience." -Fall Wolf & Elk Discovery, 2006
Springtime in Wonderland
"I think my family and I got more out of the three days with Janice than if we spent two weeks here on our own. We came wanting to see bears, moose, etc… We did and it was great. But we also enjoyed learning about the geology and hydrothermal features, as well as the general beauty of the park." Springtime in Wonderland, 2007
"Our instructor made this program exciting. She was passionate about her job and shared her knowledge with all. She had good people skills and was very patient." Springtime in Wonderland, 2007
"As a family, we were able to see sights and beauty that we would not have known to see on our own. This was a fantastic trip and worth every penny!" Springtime in Wonderland, 2006
Spring Wolf & Bear Discovery
"Brad was broadly knowledgeable about all aspects of the program and the park. He led us with humor and an ear for the inclinations of the group. He had an incredible eye for spotting wildlife and organizing each viewing session so no one was left out. He took all comments with equal weight, and treated us all equally. The course could not have been better for me and my granddaughter." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"Brad was great in everything he did. The program exceeded my expectations in all areas. They talk about 'making someone’s day.' My life has been made." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"Brad Bulin was an excellent instructor and presented the wolf and bear material thoroughly. We have great praise for the course and the instructor." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"The extremely knowledgeable instructor made this program fully worthwhile. He was gently humorous, attentive to everyone’s needs, and had an uncanny knack for finding wildlife. He’s one of the park’s treasures." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"All of the wildlife experiences were great, especially seeing wolves feeding on two different kills, and their interactions with ravens, coyote and bull bison. Seeing the grey wolf chase a black one and attack it was exceptional luck for us. Ashea’s interpretation of all this was very educational, helpful, and interesting. We enjoyed her sense of humor, excellent driving skills, and interaction with other YA staff and volunteers. We hope to join her again sometime." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"Ashea was probably the most knowledgeable and passionate facilitator I’ve ever encountered. She’s a walking encyclopedia for Yellowstone, very congenial and considerate." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"We saw a lot bears and wolves. We learned a lot about the wildlife and their environments. We have come to Yellowstone regularly for the last several years. It was very helpful to have a professional guide. We will do more of these types of courses." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"It took me more than 50 years to discover Yellowstone and in the three times I’ve taken this program, I’ve learned more about it than if I’d been reading about it that whole time. You can’t know Yellowstone without experiencing this program- it is so much more than wolves and bears." Spring Wolf and Bear Discovery, 2007
"I enjoyed all the wildlife we saw. In 30+ years of coming to Yellowstone, one could say I had perhaps seen it all -- not even close! I really enjoyed seeing all the claw marks on the trees, the stories, and the walks off the beaten path. This was an excellent adventure!" Spring Wolf & Bear Discovery, 2006
"Amanda is an exceptional instructor. She has a broad knowledge of the park's history and cultural context in addition to it's wildlife and flora. Her enthusiasm and genuine love for the park are inspirational. She handled a diverse group efficiently and safely." Spring Wolf & Bear Discovery, 2006
"Brad knowledgeable, fun, interesting, accommodating, compassionate, and caring. He has an uncanny ability to locate and sight animals in the park." Spring Wolf & Bear Discovery, 2006
"Shauna Baron was excellent, really enthusiastic about getting everyone involved and getting to know everyone personally. She is full of information about each animal, park geology, and history. We learned so much!"
"Our instructor was phenomenal, incredibly knowledgeable, and extremely careful with the safety of the class and protection of park wildlife. She was absolutely tireless and unflagging in her enthusiasm and provided an experience of a lifetime!"
Yellowstone for Families
"MacNeil was excellent with the kids. I very much appreciated his pacing the program to include everyone’s needs." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"I teach beginning teachers. I wish all of my prospective teachers could observe Ashea’s teaching skills and knowledge of content. Her storytelling and passion for her subject are contagious." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"I would give our guide a higher score than perfect if possible. Ashea far exceeded our expectations and made each moment measurable, educational, and entertaining." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Ashea Mills was our leader. What an exceptional individual. She shared with us not only the beauty of the park but also the history and challenges of the park. I could not imagine a finer experience. This program greatly exceeded my expectations. We did not waste any time during our stay. Even as we traveled, Ashea made certain that we were constantly learning." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Being in Yellowstone is always wonderful. However, the highlight if this trip was the leadership and teaching of MacNeil, coupled with the fun and learning that our grandchildren experienced." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"It was fantastic having a personal guide to explain and show us things we’ll never see on our own. Our kids loved MacNeil. He presented material in a fun and exciting way." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"I think this is one of my family’s most memorable vacations." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"I really enjoyed the learning aspect. We were able to see parts of the park many don’t see. We also heard about history and stories of Yellowstone. It added so much to our experience." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Janice is very knowledgeable and we learned so much. Thank you for the emphasis on safety!" Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Janice did an excellent job. She conveyed information clearly and provided the level appropriate for the group. She conveys a great enthusiasm for the parks which is great for the kids to see and hear." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"The program was so organized and well run-as the Mom I really appreciated that. The kids were fully engaged all day long." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"What a great way to learn about Yellowstone!" Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Ashea’s knowledge of and passion about the park was evident at every moment. This transferred to every member of our group." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Janice did a great job, very clear and knowledgeable, especially about wildlife. She really had a great sense of how to engage all the participants and the level at which to pitch the information." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Janice was an excellent instructor, extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and had the patience of Job. She was always in a good mood and is an excellent ambassador for Yellowstone Park." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Seeing the wildlife was very exciting! I learned a lot about the geology, which was surprisingly interesting. Janie, our instructor, mane everything fun while we were learning. I also really enjoyed the other participants in our group-we had a great time together." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Janice was fabulous, very informative, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. She made the program worthwhile. When the program was over, it felt like she was part of our family." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"These were well rounded activities, a nice balance of physical, mental, and creative emphasis. The educational components really helped to make hikes and visuals significant for all ages. I thoroughly enjoyed each day and activity. Janice was exceptional. I have a new found respect and appreciation for this park and all its wonders." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Ashea Mills, our guide, was phenomenal. She had a great mix of professionalism and being laid back and easy-going enough to make you feel very comfortable. She is an amazing story teller." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Our guide, MacNeil Lyons, was knowledgeable about everything in the park. There was no question he couldn’t answer. He knew the best places in the park for viewing wildlife and the places with the most beautiful scenery. He also had many great stories to tell." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"The instructor was absolutely outstanding. Everyone in the family learned something. His passion and enthusiasm for this place is contagious and inspiring." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"We chose this program for the educational and guide interpretation offered. We wanted more than the typical tourist experience. The program exceeded my expectations. It was really enjoyable." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"This was an excellent program, much better than expected. The instructor worked hard to include all participants at each level of interest and involvement." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Ashea was a fantastic instructor. She possesses a wealth of information and is a terrific story teller. She conveys information in a memorable way. We will remember what she taught us. She took us to spectacular out-of-the-way spots and was able to explain things I would have overlooked without her." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Ashea, our guide, made our program. She was outstanding, had great communication skills, and made learning fun. We loved her stories." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"This was an outstanding experience, wonderful people and an engaging, knowledgeable, inspiring, and talented instructor. She was great with the kids and very well organized." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"The instructor’s knowledge and how he communicated with both adults and kids made this a truly wonderful learning experience." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Our naturalist, Ashea, was well-informed, exciting, and fun! She knew the best places to see bears, wolves, and other wildlife. She taught us all about the thermal features. We saw much more than we would have on our own and learned so much! The kids were not only educated but continuously entertained." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Our instructor, Janice, did a spectacular job. She was knowledgeable, safety conscious, and highly motivated. She was wonderful with the kids, outstanding job!" Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Excellent program and instructor. I would like to come back and do another program through the Institute and would not hesitate to recommend it to friends and family." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"Janice was absolutely phenomenal. Her knowledge and enthusiasm made this an incredible experience and I would recommend both the program and Janice to friends and family." Yellowstone for Families, 2007
"It was wonderful to be guided through each activity. It took so much stress away from the vacation and we were able to focus on being a family." Yellowstone for Families, 2006
“We wanted a fun and educational way to introduce our sons to a national treasure. Our instructor made learning about the wonders of Yellowstone fun and interesting. He kept us alert to our own and the group’s safety at all times and instilled in all of the children a strong desire to protect the wildlife and resources of the park. We firmly believe that we never would have seen and heard the things we did without Yellowstone for Families”
“Our family truly enjoyed all of the activities in this course! Some of our favorites were visiting Norris Basin and doing the temperature readings, hiking up to the Canyon and doing the watercolor painting, and the hike to Beaver Pond. We particularly enjoyed not having to plan activities appropriate for our family and the educational experience. We could never have duplicated this on our own!”
“After each day we thought things couldn't get any better, but they did. As a family we learned things and experienced things that will last a lifetime"
Trails through Yellowstone
"Brad was an excellent guide, utterly professional, great fun, enthusiastic at all times, and very well informed." Trails Through Yellowstone, 2007
"Ashea was absolutely superb. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious. Her encyclopedic knowledge and her talents as a story teller added immensely to our enjoyment of the trip. Her conscientious care for attendees helped everyone get the most out of the experience." Trails Through Yellowstone, 2007
"I can’t imagine doing this without a guide. We would have missed so much. It’s a great program and I have no suggestions for improvement." Trails Through Yellowstone, 2007
"Four stars for Brad. His professionalism and sense of humor were outstanding. This program is the only way to see Yellowstone. I can’t wait to sign up for the next program." Trails Through Yellowstone, 2007
"Spectacular hikes, great information, nice group of people, and the evening in the Lamar Valley was unbelievable!" Trails Through Yellowstone, 2007
"Julianne was a delight to be around, very well spoken, showed great knowledge of the park and its history. She was concerned for everyone in our party and always went the extra mile." Trails Through Yellowstone, 2007
"Our guide, Julianne, made the trip. She taught us a lot and we had so much fun everywhere we went." Trails Through Yellowstone, 2007
"Julianne was outstanding. She opened my eyes, ears, and mind to all that Yellowstone offers. I could never have learned so much on my own." Trails Through Yellowstone, 2006
“Every day was a highlight. The education/information we got along the way was superb. Very good emphasis on ecology”
“Our guide, Keri, made this week. She was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, adaptable, and a wonderful teacher. She was so enthusiastic and stressed preservation of the environment. Although I could have read and learned the information myself, Keri made it all interesting and alive”
“This is a fantastic program! The days’ itineraries were perfect – very full and busy, but not too much so.”
Roosevelt Rendezvous
“There aren’t enough superlatives to describe this course. The evening speakers were all extremely knowledgeable and good speakers. The field trip leaders were friendly, fun, and informative. The volunteers were enthusiastic and fun to be around. The food was great. I have a much greater appreciation forYellowstonethan I ever would have reached on my own.”
“Every group leader was exceptional. All were interesting, passionate about their field, entertaining – a good combination to create a learning experience. Each one had impressive credentials, and all of them seemed to knowYellowstonein great detail.”
“It is clear that every instructor, speaker, administrator, and volunteer has an overwhelming love forYellowstoneand this program.”
Winter Rendezvous
"All instructors demonstrated superior knowledge of the park and respect for both the wildlife and the ecosystem." Winter Rendezvous, 2008
"A love and respect for nature was consistently communicated by all of the instructors. I was impressed by their knowledge, upbeat attitude, and commitment to provide opportunities for the participants to experience the wonder of Yellowstone." Winter Rendezvous, 2008
"The enthusiasm of the instructors and volunteers makes you feel immediately passionate about the whole experience. Within seconds, you forget the cold and cannot wait for the next adventure!" Winter Rendezvous, 2008
Family Winter Holiday
"This trip was absolutely wonderful and I would highly recommend it to others. I have enjoyed Yellowstone in summertime in the past and always wanted to see it in winter. We’re not big outdoors people and didn’t know how to plan a winter trip until we heard of the family program. It exceeded my expectations—we thoroughly enjoyed it." Family Winter Holiday, 2008
"Shauna is astounding. She knows her ecology, geology, and all the flora of the park. I don’t think there was a question she couldn’t answer for us. And she was great with the kids, a huge bonus for us!" Family Winter Holiday, 2008
"It was an information- and activity-packed three days. The balance of information and activity was just right for the ranges of ages of kids participating. We loved the animal watching and observing the kids getting totally turned on to the whole Yellowstone experience. Our grandson said he wished he didn't have to leave." Family Winter Holiday, 2007
"Shauna made us feel at home and welcome. Seeing wildlife with a scientist instead of a "tour guide" made me feel like I was getting the real deal. I learned a lot and have a new and strong appreciation of Yellowstone Park, its history and current state." Family Winter Holiday, 2007
Northern Yellowstone Adventure
"MacNeil was the best instructor-guide I have ever encountered in an outdoor/nature program. Aside form the wonders of natural wildlife, he was what made the experience so great!" Northern Yellowstone Adventure, 2007
Winter Wildlife Expedition
"I can't imagine a better instructor: knowledgeable, sensitive to clients' needs, with a pleasant demeanor and great sense of humor." Winter Wildlife Expedition, 2007
"I suppose it is possible to come on one's own and see wolves, but what made this trip worthwhile was the interpretation, history and ecology that accompanied seeing wildlife. I thought the interpretation and natural history exercises contributed greatly to the trip." Winter Wildlife Expedition, 2007
Winter Wolf Discovery
"The instructor was knowledgeable and clearly communicated his knowledge and enthusiasm. His patience and rapport were exceptional." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2008
"This is the best vacation value under the sun!" Winter Wolf Discovery, 2008
"Eric Bindseil is one of the best, if not the best, naturalist guides I’ve ever come across. Excellent job." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2008
"Our instructor, Barbara O’Grady, was a gift to us!! Her wit, wisdom, knowledge, gentleness, and passion for wildlife made this an unforgettable experience, even more than we had hoped for." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2008
"Barbara O’Grady was very informative, fun, energetic, and enthusiastic. The program and instructor exceeded my expectations, 10 out of 10!" Winter Wolf Discovery, 2008
"It was great to have the Yellowstone Association's spotting scopes. We were able to see wolves, foxes, coyotes, and, of course, bison and elk." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2007
"Our instructor was top-notch. Brad's knowledge if wildlife issues within Yellowstone was excellent. To have an instructor with an M.S. in wildlife biology, a love of teaching, and a clear enjoyment of his job was a treat." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2007
"Brad Bulin enhanced our experience by noting particular behaviors, identifying the wolves, and keeping our days safe, comfortable, informative, and flexible. I will never forget what I learned and witnessed during my three days here." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2007
"Brad is an extraordinary instructor. His passion and knowledge of Yellowstone, its ecosystem, and particularly its animals is deep and very effectively communicated." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2007
"This is a great program educating the public and making people aware of our wonderful natural resources." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2006
"A friend told me about the program and asked me if I wanted to come along. I said yes and am glad I did. Experiencing the park and seeing and hearing the wolves ended up being a dream come true, a dream I didn't even know I had." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2006
"Brad's stories about the wolves made the experience more personal and enjoyable. The way Brad talked about adaptations of all animals in the park to their environment was a great learning experience. I really enjoyed going to the Lamar Valley Buffalo Ranch. It was neat to visit an historical site in the park." Winter Wolf Discovery, 2006
“Nathan was broadly knowledgeable, presented accurate information in a professional manner, and was very personable; a near perfect instructor.”
“Seeing the wolves in the wild was a thrill of a lifetime. Nathan was an incredible guide and teacher; there wasn’t a question he couldn’t answer. He also took very good care of our group.”
Wonderland
"The program was excellent and met all of my expectations with many more pleasant surprises. I can honestly say that this was my best vacation that I have ever shared with my husband." Winter in Wonderland, 2008
"The two key components of this trip were Yellowstone itself and and our excellent guide. This was the nineth trip to Yellowstone and our enjoyment was significantly increased with the guide." Winter in Wonderland, 2008
"I’ve come out to Yellowstone in August for the last five years and have had a wonderful time. I’d heard it was beautiful in the winter to I had to see it myself. If is more beautiful and wonderful than I could ever have imagined." Winter in Wonderland, 2008
"This is the most outstanding and comprehensive trip, well balanced and fun!" Winter in Wonderland, 2008
"MacNeil Lyons was an excellent guide, couldn’t have asked for anyone better. The program exceeded my expectations. Wildlife, geology, the variety of activities-all were highlights. I’m leaving with a greater appreciation and respect for wildlife and geology. Yellowstone has changed my perspective." Winter in Wonderland, 2008
"MacNeil was a wonderful instructor! I learned so much more about Yellowstone through his presentations than I would have if I came on my own to Yellowstone." Winter in Wonderland, 2008
"MacNeil Lyons was a superb guide—knowledgeable, well spoken, personable, available, and agreeable." Winter in Wonderland, 2008
"This program was the best integration of wildlife and geology that I have ever witnessed in decades of expeditions." Wonderland, January 2005
“Our guide was just the right mix of information, fun, and caring. Her excitement about the park and the wildlife was contagious.”
“Keri and Holly are two of the best interpreters I’ve seen. They are both professional, extremely knowledgeable, very safety conscious, sensitive to individual participant’s needs, and willing to be flexible enough to accommodate everyone.”
“I have had many outdoor adventures in the past 30 years all over the world. This was the best.”
Yellowstone on Skis
"Julianne was very knowledgeable, congenial, and safety conscious. Her love of the park was always evident." Yellowstone on Skis, 2008
"Julianne was wonderful. She has a passion for Yellowstone that is contagious. Chris was a great ski instructor. Tyrene was also passionate about her job. I can’t say enough good things about this trip." Yellowstone of Skis, 2008
"Julianne was enthusiastic, encouraging, very knowledgeable, and fun! The skiing was beyond all expectations. The ski trips showed incredibly beautiful locations in the park beyond the normal tourist spots. Riding in the snow coach was a blast!" Yellowstone of Skis, 2008
"The history and narrative provided by Julianne Baker was superb. I never thought I would learn so much about Yellowstone on a cross-country ski trip." Yellowstone on Skis, 2007
"Julianne and MacNeil were so knowledgeable, so enthusiastic, so dedicated to teaching about this wonderful park. They were just superb - they made the trip!" Yellowstone on Skis, 2006
"I knew that I would have fun skiing when I signed up for the trip, and I knew I would see great beauty here, but what has made the trip so very special is all that I have learned! I never expected I would have the chance to watch a wolf pack and then learn so much about wolves, for example. Everything we saw we also learned about and that was wonderful." Yellowstone on Skis, 2006
“All of our day trips were well-chosen and quite beautiful. Brian’s level of knowledge about Yellowstone, enthusiasm about nature, and ability to communicate are all top-notch.”
“I liked the blending of recreation and education. This course far exceeded my expectations. Brian was an excellent, genuine, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic instructor."
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