In the northeast corner of Yellowstone-an area often overlooked by visitors-the wide expanse of the Lamar Valley suddenly emerges from hiding, as if the surrounding peaks and ridges finally consent to share the secret paradise they guard. Bison and elk graze contentedly on the plentiful grass, and bald eagles and other raptors soar overhead, scanning for prey. The music of the wolf, once described by Aldo Leopold as an "outburst of wild defiant sorrow," often accompanies this pastoral scene.

Lamar Valley also boasts a remarkable story behind its scenery: it has been the site of two of the most significant wildlife conservation projects of the twentieth century: the restoration of the wild bison and the returning of the wolf to Yellowstone. In 1907, the park built the Lamar Buffalo Ranch to save the last 23 wild bison in North America, the remains of a population that had dwindled from 60 million animals. And in 1995, a captive wolf bounded from its pen into Lamar Valley-and into the environmental history books.

Given the sublime setting and conservation legacy, Lamar Valley provides the perfect setting for an outdoor classroom. From sunrise to sunset, students witness a variety of what John Muir called "a thousand Yellowstone wonders." Early risers have often been rewarded with the sight of a wolf loping across the landscape, while evening dinner companions may include a bison herd grazing in a nearby meadow.

Students lodge in cozy and quaint cabins at the Lamar Buffalo Ranch, which still retains four of its original historic buildings. New friends are made while cooking potluck dinners in the dining hall, or sipping wine on the porch while watching the sunset.

This summer the Yellowstone Association offers a variety of educational experiences at Lamar, from tracking mammals, to stargazing, to fly fishing. Enrich your Yellowstone knowledge while enjoying the wild, romantic company of the Lamar Valley.

Show your appreciation for someone special in your life and purchase a gift membership in the Yellowstone Association. Your gift will help preserve one of Earth's most magnificent and fragile places and the gift recipient will enjoy membership benefits that last an entire year!

In addition to an acknowledgment letter of the gift membership given by you, the gift recipient will receive the following benefits:

• Family membership in the Yellowstone Association
• 15% discount on Yellowstone Association items at visitor center Park Stores, on our website, and our newest store location in Gardiner, Montana
• 10% discount on merchandise at all Yellowstone General Stores locations throughout Yellowstone. (Exclusions apply- inquire at store for details) *Member card must be presented
• Discounts on Yellowstone Association Institute courses
• Subscription to the Yellowstone Today newspaper (first year only) and the Yellowstone Discovery magazine
• Library privileges at Yellowstone's Heritage and Research Center

Originally created as a training manual for seasonal National Park Service employees, this annually updated book has evolved into one of the most sought- after references on Yellowstone National Park. Do you want to know how the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone formed? Do you ever wonder how many pronghorn live in the park? What are thermophiles and why are they so important? You'll find these answers and more in this easy-to-use compendium. Price: $14.95 ($12.71 for members)

This summer the Institute will offer five dayhiking seminars based throughout the park. Whether you want to travel through time with Hiking the History of Yellowstone or explore the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley with Day Hiking the Wild Yellowstone: Northern Range, there's something for everyone. The best way to truly experience the wonders of Yellowstone is to get away from the roads and developed areas. Carefully selected hikes are designed to showcase the park's natural beauty and wildlife. Join us for the best of Yellowstone! Choose from:

• Hiking the History of Yellowstone, June 22-25
• Day Hiking the Wild Yellowstone: Northern Range, July 2- 5
• Day Hiking the Wild Yellowstone: Lake Area, July 8-11
• Day Hiking the Beartooths, July 21-24
• Day Hiking the Wild Yellowstone: Northern Range (session 2), August 24-27