Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival + Sunset Welcome

Arrive in Medora and get settled before meeting the group for introductions and a brief workshop overview. After checking in, we’ll head into Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s South Unit for our first evening of photography, looking for wildlife and photographing sunset over the badlands.

Day 2 – Sunrise, Wildlife & Wind Canyon

We’ll begin before sunrise, heading into the park to photograph the soft morning light as it reaches the layered badlands. After sunrise, we’ll continue exploring by vehicle, watching for bison, wild horses, prairie dogs, elk, and other wildlife along the way.

After a midday break, you’ll have some free time to explore Medora, browse the shops, grab lunch, or simply relax before we head back out for the evening.

Later in the afternoon, we’ll work our way toward Wind Canyon, one of the park’s classic sunset locations overlooking the Little Missouri River.

Day 3 – Painted Canyon & Wild Horses

Today we’ll begin with early morning photography at Painted Canyon, where layers of colorful formations stretch across the landscape.

After our morning shoot, we’ll spend part of the day exploring areas where the park’s wild horses are often seen. Their location can vary, so we’ll follow the conditions and wildlife activity, taking advantage of other photographic opportunities along the way.

After an afternoon break, we’ll return to the park and work our way toward locations such as Buck Hill and Boicourt Overlook, choosing our sunset location based on the light and conditions.

Day 4 – Wildlife, Presidential Library & Our Final Evening

We’ll head out early again, allowing the morning light and wildlife activity to guide our route. This will also give us time to revisit favorite locations and photograph some of the quieter details of the badlands, from twisted junipers and prairie grasses to textures, patterns, and intimate landscapes.

During the afternoon, we’ll visit the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and spend some time learning more about Roosevelt’s connection to the North Dakota Badlands and the landscape that helped shape his commitment to conservation.

Later, we’ll return to the park for our final evening of photography, visiting locations such as Peaceful Valley Ranch or returning to a favorite overlook for golden hour and sunset. If skies and conditions cooperate, we may stay out after dark for some nighttime photography beneath the wide-open North Dakota sky.

Day 5 – Departure Day

No scheduled events. Enjoy a relaxed morning, pack up, and depart at your convenience.