This is that time of the year when Yellowstone National Park is ready for the "rest of us."

If you don't like the big crowds and the bear jams, mid-winter is the perfect time to visit the park. Whether you take the "Cooke City Highway" through the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley, or opt for a snowmobile and snow coach tour, it can be the best time for wildlife viewing, especially if you want to see wolves and bison.

An event in Missoula this week can get you and the family prepped to understand what you see.

Dennis Bragg photo
Dennis Bragg photo
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RELATED: Making Your Yellowstone Winter Trip Memorable, Not Miserable

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"Hooves and Howls"

That's the title of Wednesday's presentation for the "Cartography Comes Alive" series at Xplorer Maps by Sam Archibald.

Archibald is the Yellowstone Forever Institute's naturalist, guide, and Lead Field Educator. Along the trail toward environmental education, Sam developed outdoor leadership programs as a Peace Corps volunteer, led YCC work crews as a park ranger, and earned his master’s in environmental management.

Sam Archibald; Yellowstone Forever photo
Sam Archibald; Yellowstone Forever photo
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He teaches field courses on wolf ecology, birds & blooms, the wildlife communities in Yellowstone, and other topics like the park's geology, ecology and management.

What's so important about bison and wolves in Yellowstone?

Bison and wolves are two of the most ecologically and culturally significant animals in North America. As "keystone" species, they shape the entire wildlife community and have a long history of interactions with human and wildlife management.

Wolf numbers have expanded since they were reintroduced in the mid-90s, and bison continue to spark discussion over wildlife management year-round.

CCA events are free

All of the "Cartography Comes Alive" events are free, but since seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, it's recommended you pick up a ticket in advance at the Xplorer Maps;' store at 1245 S. 3rd Street just east of  Russell.

Families are welcome, and the program starts at 6:30 Wednesday evening.

Stunning Pictures of Yellowstone National Park in the Winter

Yellowstone National Park in the Winter

Gallery Credit: Chris Wolfe

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