Best Times to Visit Yellowstone National Park, USA
Quick Answer:
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather for exploring Yellowstone's diverse landscapes, with all roads and trails open, but expect crowds and potential wildfires. Spring (May) and Fall (September-October) provide fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, though some trails and roads may have limited access. Winter (November-April) transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but requires careful planning and winter driving experience.
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -1°C | -11°C | 30°F | 12°F | 20mm | 6 days | 9h |
| Feb | 0°C | -10°C | 32°F | 14°F | 23mm | 6 days | 10h |
| Mar | 4°C | -6°C | 39°F | 21°F | 33mm | 7 days | 12h |
| Apr | 9°C | -1°C | 48°F | 30°F | 41mm | 8 days | 14h |
| May | 14°C | 3°C | 57°F | 37°F | 61mm | 10 days | 15h |
| Jun | 19°C | 7°C | 66°F | 45°F | 71mm | 12 days | 15.5h |
| Jul | 23°C | 11°C | 73°F | 52°F | 76mm | 12 days | 15h |
| Aug | 22°C | 10°C | 72°F | 50°F | 64mm | 11 days | 14h |
| Sep | 17°C | 5°C | 63°F | 41°F | 53mm | 9 days | 13h |
| Oct | 11°C | 1°C | 52°F | 34°F | 41mm | 7 days | 11h |
| Nov | 5°C | -4°C | 41°F | 25°F | 30mm | 6 days | 10h |
| Dec | 1°C | -9°C | 34°F | 16°F | 25mm | 6 days | 9h |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Yellowstone National Park?
The best time to visit Yellowstone is during the summer months (June-August) for the warmest weather and accessibility to all areas of the park. However, this is also the busiest time. Shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds but some areas may have limited access.
How much does it cost to enter Yellowstone National Park?
There is an entrance fee per vehicle to enter Yellowstone National Park. The fee varies depending on the vehicle type and the length of your stay. It's recommended to check the official park website for the most up-to-date pricing and pass options.
What are some of the must-see attractions in Yellowstone?
Yellowstone boasts many incredible sights! Must-sees include Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and wildlife viewing opportunities (bison, elk, wolves, etc.). Planning your route in advance is highly recommended.
Where should I stay while visiting Yellowstone?
Yellowstone offers various lodging options inside and outside the park. Inside the park, you'll find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds, but these often book up far in advance. Outside the park, you'll find a wider range of hotels and other accommodations in nearby towns like West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cody.
What should I pack for a trip to Yellowstone?
Pack for all types of weather, even in summer. Layers are essential, as temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the day. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a reusable water bottle. Check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
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