Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park offers breathtaking scenery year-round, but your experience will vary dramatically by season. Planning the best time to visit Yellowstone depends on your priorities – warm hiking weather, wildlife viewing, avoiding crowds, or even a snowy adventure. Summer (June–August) is peak season with reliably warm days (average highs in the 70s–80s°F), but also the heaviest crowds (nearly 1 million visitors each summer month). Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are shoulder seasons, offering mild weather and far fewer visitors. In spring you’ll see newborn wildlife and melting snow; in fall you’ll enjoy crisp air and colorful foliage. Winter (November–March) transforms Yellowstone into a snowy wilderness – almost no crowds, but very cold temperatures and most roads closed. This guide breaks down each season, weather trends, crowds, and road conditions to help you choose the perfect time for your Yellowstone trip.

• Peak vs Shoulder vs Off-Season: High Season (June–Aug) means crowded trails and full lodges. Shoulder Seasons (Apr–May, Sep–Oct) have lighter crowds and milder weather. Low Season (Nov–Mar) offers solitude and snow, but much of the park is accessible only by snowcoach or ski.
• Weather by Month: Yellowstone’s climate swings widely. For example, average high temperatures climb from ~37°F in March to ~58°F in May, peaking around 78°F in July. Fall cools quickly (October highs ~51°F) and winter highs hang near the 20s–30s°F. (See Yellowstone weather by month below for details.)
• Crowds & Wildlife: Millions visit annually (around 4.74 million in 2024). July alone averages ~948,000 visitors (≈24% of a year’s total). In contrast, April and October combined see fewer than a million. Spring brings newborn bison and bears; fall features elk rutting and brilliant aspen colors.

Each section below explores a season, what to expect, and planning tips.

Details of Best Time to Visit Yellowstone

Spring (April – May)

In spring, Yellowstone thaws slowly. Snow still blankets many areas, and weather can swing from snow to sun even in May. Average highs go from the upper 30s°F in March to about 58°F by late May, but nights often drop below freezing. Importantly, spring is a low-crowd season: April, May, and even October combined typically see fewer visitors than a single summer month. You’ll enjoy near-empty trails and the thrill of wildlife babies (bear cubs and bison calves are common). However, many park roads and facilities open later in spring, so always check road conditions first.

• Weather: Cool and changeable. Expect average highs of ~37°F in March, ~46°F in April, rising to ~58°F by May. Snow, frost, or even hail can still occur best time to visit yellowstone.
• Crowds: Very light. April–May together have roughly as many visitors as a single summer month, so you’ll enjoy plenty of solitude best time to visit yellowstone.
• Wildlife: Excellent. Many animals emerge or give birth – prime time for bear cubs and baby bison sightings. Migratory birds return.
• Travel Tips: Layer up (winter coats may still be needed). Note that some campgrounds and hotels may still be closed or have limited service until late May. Always verify Yellowstone’s road openings – for example, higher roads (like Dunraven Pass) typically open in June.

Summer (June – August)

American bison grazing by a Yellowstone river in summer. Summer is Yellowstone’s high season – warm days, long daylight, and all park roads and facilities open. Average highs hover around 70°F in June and into the 80s by July–August. This means ideal hiking and sightseeing weather, but be prepared for heavy visitation. Nearly two-thirds of Yellowstone’s annual visitors arrive in June–August. For example, July averages about 947,688 visitors (≈23.6% of annual traffic). Expect busy roads, crowded parking at popular sights, and booked-up lodging best time to visit yellowstone.

• Weather: Generally warm and pleasant (70–78°F highs); nights cool (40–50°F). Be ready for sudden thunderstorms—afternoon rains are common, so plan hikes for morning and carry rain gear.
• Crowds: Extreme. This is Yellowstone’s busiest time. Weigh the trade-offs: great weather and full access versus lines at Old Faithful and busy trails best time to visit yellowstone.
• Activities: All attractions and roads are open. It’s the best time for full hiking itineraries, fishing, boating on Yellowstone Lake, and ranger programs. Yellowstone’s famous geysers and wildlife (bison, elk, bears) are still very active.
• Travel Tips: Book hotels/campgrounds months in advance (by winter or early spring). Arrive very early for popular sites to beat crowds. Start early to avoid midday sun and afternoon storms. Always carry bear spray and maintain distance from animals best time to visit yellowstone.

Fall (September – October)

Bison herd grazing under stormy skies in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley (late fall). Fall brings a quieter, picturesque side of Yellowstone. Early fall days (especially September) are often considered the best month to visit Yellowstone. Daytime highs in September average around 64°F, and the park’s golden aspens and cottonwoods create brilliant color. By late October, snow returns to higher elevations and some roads begin closing (note: the northern loop via Mammoth and Gardiner stays open longest). Visitor numbers drop quickly after Labor Day; you may find that September crowds are far lighter than summer’s peak. Fall is also prime time for elk bugling (rut) in Hayden and Lamar Valleys best time to visit yellowstone.

• Weather: Cooling fast. September days are mild (~64°F), but nights can be frosty. October sees more rain/snow and highs around 51°F. Dress in layers.
• Crowds: Lightening up. Shoulder season – far fewer tourists. The first half of September is a sweet spot: many lodges still open, with steadily dropping visitor levels.
• Scenery & Wildlife: Fall colors (golden hues) peak in mid-Sep. Elk and mule deer rut in Yellowstone’s valleys. Bears are active fattening up before winter.
• Travel Tips: Pack for variable weather (sun to snow). Book accommodations early if targeting holiday weekends. Be aware that some facilities start closing by mid-Oct. The Mammoth–Gardiner road remains open year-round, but others (like Canyon Village) may close after mid-Oct best time to visit yellowstone.

Winter (November – March)

Cave Falls blanketed by snow in Yellowstone — an example of the park’s winter scenery. Winter in Yellowstone is harsh but magical. The park is covered by deep snow (often 150+ inches) and average highs stay around 24°F. Daylight hours are short. Virtually all summer roads close from early November until late April. The only road open year-round to cars is the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT) through Tower Junction to Cooke City. Everything else requires snowmobiles or snowcoaches. With almost no crowds, winter offers unparalleled quiet and icy beauty. You can see bison, elk, and wolves against snowy backdrops best time to visit yellowstone.

• Weather: Extremely cold. Snowstorms are common. Days often remain below freezing; expect temperatures well under 20°F during January.
• Access: Very limited. Only the north and northeast entrances are plowed for vehicle traffic; the rest of the park is accessed only via oversnow travel. Check current conditions before venturing out best time to visit yellowstone.
• Activities: Guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours (book well ahead) are the way to see Old Faithful and other sights. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular. Wildlife viewing along open roads is rewarding with few humans around.
• Tips: Layer up with winter gear and bring safety equipment (GPS, warm beverages). Pack extra fuel and supplies if driving. Accommodations in park are very limited (Mammoth Hot Springs is main winter lodging). Always heed NPS winter alerts best time to visit yellowstone.

Yellowstone Peak Season & Crowds

Plan carefully around crowds, as Yellowstone’s popularity means peak times are very busy. Data show that summer (June–Aug) accounts for about 60–63% of the park’s annual visits. July is the single busiest month (~947,688 visits on average), followed by August (~839,787). By contrast, April and October each average under 225,000 visits, and winter months see only tens of thousands. In practice, the total visits in April+May+October combined is often less than a single summer month best time to visit yellowstone.

• High Season (Jun–Aug): Expect crowds at trailheads, busy roads, and long lines at major attractions. Lodging prices peak and should be reserved half a year in advance best time to visit yellowstone.
• Shoulder Seasons (Apr–May, Sep–Oct): Days are quieter. For example, one guide notes that visiting in April, May, or October “offers modest crowds” because those months together see fewer than a million visitors.
• Low Season (Nov–Mar): Very few visitors, but plan only if you can handle snow. Only select areas (like Mammoth Hot Springs in winter) will be open best time to visit yellowstone.
• Planning Tip: If you prefer fewer people, target mid-September or spring (mid-May). Many travelers say “avoid the crowds” by visiting just after Labor Day best time to visit yellowstone.

Yellowstone Road Conditions & Planning Tips

Always check Yellowstone’s current road conditions on the NPS site before traveling. Most park roads follow a seasonal schedule. Generally, all roads except one open for vehicles around late April and stay open through late October. The only year-round highway is the North Entrance to Cooke City (via Tower Junction). During winter (mid-Dec–mid-Mar), limited areas open to oversnow vehicles; from early Nov to late Apr regular vehicles are not allowed on most roads best time to visit yellowstone.

• Trip Planning Resources: Use the NPS “Plan Your Visit” page for up-to-date alerts on closures, weather, and fees. Park rangers can update you on fog, construction, or wildlife closures.
• Driving Tips: Even in summer, be prepared for sudden weather changes – snow has occurred as late as June in high areas. Carry layers and rain gear. Gas stations inside Yellowstone are limited. Cell service is sparse; download maps and emergency info in advance.
• Packing & Safety: Yellowstone’s altitude (8,000 ft avg) can affect some visitors. Drink plenty of water and take it easy your first day. Always carry binoculars, bear spray, and food-storage gear. Stay on boardwalks in thermal areas – steam vents and hot springs are extremely dangerous best time to visit yellowstone.
• Tickets & Fees: Yellowstone entrance requires a pass ($35/7 days). Purchase online to save time. Consider an America the Beautiful annual pass ($80 for all National Parks) if you plan multiple visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best month to visit Yellowstone?
A: Most experts point to September as the ideal month. Early fall offers mild daytime weather, stunning fall foliage, and significantly fewer visitors than summer. Spring (mid-May) is also excellent for mild weather and newborn wildlife. One guide specifically notes that “the best months to visit Yellowstone are arguably May… or just after Labor Day in September” best time to visit yellowstone.

Q: What is Yellowstone’s peak (crowded) season?
A: Yellowstone’s peak season runs mid-June through August. Summer months draw about 60–63% of annual visitation. July is the busiest single month (nearly 948k visits on average). If you want to avoid the crowds, skip the high summer – consider late April–May or September instead.

Q: What season has the fewest crowds?
A: The least crowded time is winter (November–March), followed by shoulder periods. Winter sees only a few thousand visitors per month. Many facilities close, and travel requires snow vehicles. Among milder-weather options, late fall and spring (April-May and late September) have far fewer people than summer best time to visit yellowstone.

Q: Can you visit Yellowstone in winter?
A: Yes – but it’s very different. Nearly all roads close to cars; the park is accessible only by snowmobile or guided snowcoach (reservations required). Only the road between Gardiner (North Entrance) and Cooke City (Northeast Entrance) is kept open for vehicles year-round. Winter offers peaceful snowy scenery and active wildlife, but dress for extreme cold best time to visit yellowstone.

Q: What about Yellowstone weather by month?
A: Each month varies widely. For example, spring lows average ~20–30°F with spring storms, summer highs average 70–80°F, and winter highs stay in the 20s–30s°F. Refer to NOAA or NPS forecasts for the exact month you plan. Generally, packing layers is wise any time of year best time to visit yellowstone.

Q: When do Yellowstone roads open?
A: Most seasonal roads reopen by mid/late April (some high mountain passes open in June) and close by late October. Always verify on the NPS road status page before departure. The Mammoth-to-NE route remains open year-round.

Q: Which season is best for wildlife viewing?
A: Spring and fall are generally best. In spring (April–May), many animals have young and are active in the valleys. Fall (Sept–Oct) is prime time for elk and moose during rut. According to a Yellowstone travel guide, spring is great for bear and wolf sightings, and fall sees elk bugling and more predictable game movements best time to visit yellowstone.

Q: Any additional tips?
A: Book early: Especially for summer trips, reserve lodging/campsites many months ahead. Safety: Keep 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other wildlife. Stay flexible: High-altitude weather can change. Engage & Share: If these tips helped, share this guide or comment with your own Yellowstone experiences!

---

Picking the right time to go will help you enjoy Yellowstone to the fullest. Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park is ultimately the time that matches your interests – whether that’s warm sunny days and full amenities in summer, wildflower-filled meadows in spring, golden aspens in autumn, or pristine snow in winter. By considering the seasonal weather patterns, park crowds, and road conditions above, you can schedule your trip for the experience you want. Safe travels, and enjoy your Yellowstone adventure!

American bison grazing by Yellowstone River during summer. The open meadows and warm weather of summer make for great wildlife watching.

Bison herd grazing under stormy skies in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley (late fall). Fall weather brings dramatic skies and thinning crowds.

Cave Falls blanketed by snow in Yellowstone — an example of the park’s winter scenery. In winter, many of Yellowstone’s waterfalls freeze into icy spectacles as snow blankets the landscape.

Enjoyed this guide? Share your favorite Yellowstone season in the comments below, and feel free to share or bookmark this article for your trip planning!