Auburn University student Max Forman is spending his summer guiding visitors through one of America’s most iconic landscapes: Yellowstone National Park. The Parks and Recreation Management major at Auburn’s College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) will soon return to the Plains after completing his internship with an independent company based in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem.
Max’s responsibilities with Yellowstone Hiking Guides span a wide range of outdoor leadership tasks. He leads guided hikes, manages group safety, prepares trip logistics and provides interpretation about Yellowstone’s diverse wildlife and history. As his internship progressed, his role expanded to include kayak tours and van tours, giving him experience across multiple types of guided recreation. These opportunities have helped him better understand how different groups connect with the park and how each type of guided activity offers its own unique challenges and rewards.
His academic background at Auburn has played a major role in preparing him for this internship. Through work in leadership, risk management and recreation planning, paired with extensive hands-on experience through student employment with Auburn Outdoors, Max developed the skills needed to step confidently into this role. These skills have been especially important for safely traversing Yellowstone’s dynamic landscape and observing the rich biodiversity that calls this expansive wilderness home.
“I’ve had the opportunity to watch wolves feeding and even witnessed a bison give birth in Yellowstone, experiences that very few people ever get to see,” Forman said. “Moments like those have made every day feel different and reminded me just how incredible it is to work in such a unique place.”
Throughout the summer, Max has grown both professionally and personally. Each guided hike brings new opportunities, and Max has learned how to tailor his approach to meet guests’ needs while still maintaining safety and fostering meaningful connections within the landscape. His work shows the balance between leadership and hospitality that is essential for outdoor recreation.
“One thing that has surprised me is how much of guiding happens behind the scenes,” Forman said. “Beyond knowing the trails and geography, I’ve learned how important it is to read a group, adapt plans based on weather or wildlife, communicate with people from all over the world and make sure every guest feels safe while still having an unforgettable experience. I’ve gained a much deeper appreciation for risk management and decision‑making in a national park environment.”
Forman hopes to continue working in outdoor leadership and guiding after graduation, with the dream of eventually starting his own guiding operation. He said the skills he is gaining, from risk management to client engagement, are laying out the foundation for that future.
“The most rewarding part has been helping guests experience Yellowstone in ways they’ll remember for the rest of their lives,” Forman said. “Whether it’s introducing someone to their first geyser, spotting wildlife they’ve only ever seen in documentaries or helping someone complete a hike they weren’t sure they could do, it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of those moments.”
From Auburn to Yellowstone, Forman is turning classroom lessons into real-world leadership. His internship is helping mold his career path and inspiring others to see the value of experiential learning in the natural world. As the season continues, he is building the confidence and professional insight that will support his goals long after his time in Yellowstone ends.
