When to Yellowstonenationalpark
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is deep winter in Yellowstone with frigid temperatures and heavy snow cover. Most park roads are closed except the route from the North Entrance to Cooke City. This is prime time for winter wildlife viewing and snow sports, with bison and elk visible against snowy landscapes and geothermal features creating dramatic steam clouds in the cold air.
February
February continues the harsh winter conditions with deep snowpack and extremely cold temperatures. The park is accessible only via snowcoach or snowmobile from West Yellowstone and Mammoth. Wildlife congregates in thermally heated areas, offering exceptional viewing opportunities, and the winter landscape showcases the park's geothermal features in stunning contrast.
March
March marks the late winter period with gradually increasing daylight but persistent cold and snow. Roads remain closed for oversnow travel only, and conditions can be particularly challenging with spring storms bringing additional heavy snowfall. Wildlife begins showing signs of spring activity, with bison calving season approaching and bears beginning to emerge from hibernation toward month's end.
April
April is a transitional month with highly variable conditions ranging from blizzards to sunny spring days. Most roads remain closed as snow removal operations begin, typically starting mid-month. This is an unpredictable time for visiting, with muddy conditions and limited accessibility, though wildlife viewing can be excellent as animals move to lower elevations and newborn bison calves appear.
May
May sees spring's full arrival with roads gradually reopening (typically by late month), though snow can still fall at any time. Waterfalls are at peak flow from snowmelt, wildflowers begin blooming at lower elevations, and wildlife is highly active with many species birthing young. Weather remains unpredictable with warm afternoons often followed by cold, wet conditions, requiring layered clothing and flexibility.
June
June brings early summer conditions with most park roads open by mid-month and wildflowers blooming prolifically across meadows. Days are long and generally pleasant, though afternoon thunderstorms are common and snow remains possible at higher elevations. Wildlife viewing is excellent with young animals visible and animals still concentrated in valleys before dispersing to higher elevations.
July
July is peak summer and the park's busiest month with warm days, full facility operations, and all roads open. Wildflowers reach their peak at higher elevations, and warm weather makes hiking and camping most comfortable. Expect significant crowds at major attractions, afternoon thunderstorms, and the warmest temperatures of the year, though nights remain cool and frost is still possible at high elevations.
August
August continues summer's warmth with similar conditions to July but slightly drier weather. This remains peak tourist season with heavy visitation at popular sites. Wildlife viewing shifts as animals move to higher elevations seeking cooler temperatures and escape insects. Late August often sees the first hints of fall with cooling temperatures and the beginning of elk rutting season.
September
September is an outstanding time to visit with pleasant daytime temperatures, dramatically reduced crowds after Labor Day, and spectacular fall colors beginning mid-month. The elk rut is in full swing with bugling echoing through valleys, and wildlife is highly active preparing for winter. Weather becomes more variable with increasing chances of snow, especially late month, and some facilities begin closing.
October
October brings autumn's full display with golden aspens and crisp air, but winter conditions can arrive suddenly. The first half of the month can offer beautiful weather and excellent wildlife viewing as animals prepare for winter, but snow becomes increasingly likely and most facilities close by mid-month. Roads begin closing for the season, and visitors should be prepared for winter driving conditions.
November
November marks the transition to winter with most park roads closing after the first major snowstorms. Only the North Entrance road to Cooke City remains open to vehicles year-round. Snow accumulates rapidly, temperatures drop significantly, and most visitor facilities close for the season. This is the quietest time in the park before winter recreation season begins in mid-December.
December
December is full winter with deep snow, bitter cold, and short days. The park transitions to winter access mode with snowcoach and snowmobile tours beginning mid-month from West Yellowstone and Mammoth. Winter enthusiasts enjoy pristine snow-covered landscapes, steaming geothermal features creating magical ice formations, and wildlife concentrated in thermally active areas. Holiday weeks see increased winter visitation.