When to Visit Yellowstonenationalpark
Year-round climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit by Travel Style
Beach & Relaxation
Not applicable - Yellowstone is a mountain wilderness park without beaches, but thermal hot springs are accessible year-round for a unique relaxation experience.
Cultural Exploration
May through October when visitor centers are fully operational and ranger programs are most extensive, offering the best opportunities to learn about park history and geology.
Adventure & Hiking
July through September when most trails are snow-free and accessible, with the most stable weather conditions for backcountry activities.
Budget Travel
November through April when accommodation rates are lowest, though many park roads and facilities are closed during winter months.
Month-by-Month Climate Guide
January
January brings Yellowstone's harshest winter conditions with heavy snow and extremely cold temperatures. Most park roads are closed except for the route between the North and Northeast entrances. Winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular.
February
February continues the deep winter season with substantial snowpack and frigid temperatures. Limited road access persists, but winter wildlife viewing can be excellent as animals concentrate in lower elevation areas. Thermal features create dramatic steam displays in the cold air.
March
March marks the beginning of spring's slow arrival, though winter conditions dominate most of the park. Snow begins to soften at lower elevations, and daylight hours increase significantly. Most facilities remain closed, but winter recreation continues.
April
April brings gradual warming and the start of snowmelt at lower elevations, though higher elevations remain snow-covered. Some park roads begin to open for the season, and early spring wildlife activity increases as animals prepare for breeding season.
May
May represents true spring in Yellowstone with significant snowmelt and the opening of more park roads and facilities. Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals are active with newborns, and wildflowers begin blooming at lower elevations.
June
June offers pleasant weather with warming temperatures and most park roads open, though some high-elevation areas may still have snow. This is prime time for wildlife viewing and the start of peak hiking season with longer daylight hours.
July
July provides Yellowstone's warmest weather and peak summer conditions with all major roads and most trails accessible. This is the busiest month with full facility operations, extensive ranger programs, and optimal conditions for all outdoor activities.
August
August continues the prime summer season with warm days and cool nights typical of mountain climates. All park areas are accessible, wildlife remains active, and wildflowers reach peak bloom at higher elevations.
September
September brings beautiful autumn weather with crisp, clear days and the beginning of fall colors. Crowds diminish after Labor Day, making it an excellent time for photography and wildlife viewing as animals prepare for winter.
October
October showcases peak fall colors and increasingly variable weather with possible snow at any elevation. Many facilities begin closing for the season, but wildlife viewing remains excellent as animals are active before winter.
November
November transitions into winter with snow becoming more frequent and most park roads closing for the season. Only the northern route typically remains open to vehicles, while winter preparations dominate park operations.
December
December establishes full winter conditions with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures throughout the park. Most facilities are closed, but winter recreation opportunities begin, and the park takes on a serene, snow-covered beauty.