Buffalo Sauna Click to zoom Outside a few popular spots, most of Greater Yellowstone's wilderness sees little human activity in summer. In winter, the backcountry becomes an untracked paradise perfectly suited to ski touring. A visit at this time of year is a window to an older world. Bison stand motionless around steaming, thermal pools. Storm clouds race across an indifferent horizon.
Wolves travel single file beneath frozen stars.
Last night's hunt is recorded by animal tracks that converge on bright red stains in the snow. Though certain areas of Greater Yellowstone are well known for their ski potential, much of it remains untapped. Joe and Win will bring back photographs of mountains and valleys that hardly anyone ever sees - let alone skis. These two goals are closely aligned, but completing the selected route won't be easy. There is something about working hard day after day while moving through wilderness that drives one to go farther.