Vacay AlchemistFor most travelers the best time to visit Yellowstone is late April through May or September, when roads are open, wildlife is active and crowds are thinner than in July and August. Summer offers the most services and warmest weather, and winter offers a very different, snow-covered park accessible mainly by over-snow tours.
When do Yellowstone's roads open and close?
Most park roads close to regular vehicles in early November and reopen in stages from mid-April into late May, depending on snow. The road from Gardiner to Cooke City stays open all year. Check the National Park Service's road status page before you go, since dates change with the weather every year.
Month-by-month guide
- April: early spring. Some roads are open, bears emerge from hibernation and wildlife is easy to spot in the valleys, but weather is unpredictable and many services are closed.
- May: roads open, baby bison and other newborn animals appear and crowds are still moderate. Snow and cold are still possible.
- June: full services open, longer days and green landscapes. Crowds build toward the end of the month.
- July and August: peak season. Warm days, cold nights, long lines at popular spots and lodging that sells out months ahead.
- September: often the best month for first-timers. Cooler weather, fewer crowds and the start of elk rutting season, though early snow is possible.
- October: golden light, elk bugling early in the month and increasing chance of snow and road closures.
- December to March: quiet and dramatic, with wolves often easier to spot against snow. Access is by snowcoach or snowmobile, and most lodges are closed.
When is the best time for wildlife?
Spring and fall are typically best for seeing large animals near roads, especially in Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. Early morning and evening are the best times any season. Winter is a favorite for wolf watching in Lamar Valley. Always stay at least the required distance from bears and wolves and 25 yards from bison and elk, or as current park rules state.
How do you beat the crowds in summer?
- Start at sunrise: popular areas like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic are calmer early.
- Visit busy sites midweek and skip the middle of the day.
- Use the less-visited parts of the park, such as the northeast and the west side of Yellowstone Lake.
- Book in-park lodging as early as reservations open, or stay in a gateway town such as West Yellowstone, Gardiner or Cody.
What should you pack?
Layers, since temperatures can swing 30 degrees between day and night and snow is possible in any month at higher elevations. Bring binoculars, bear spray where allowed and knowing how to use it, a reusable water bottle, sun protection and good walking shoes. Cell service is limited, so download maps before you arrive.
Frequently asked
What is the best month to visit Yellowstone?
September is a favorite for first-timers because of thinner crowds and active wildlife. June is also great if you want full services.
Can you visit Yellowstone in winter?
Yes, but access to most of the park is by snowcoach or snowmobile, and services are limited. It is a special experience for wildlife and thermal features.
How many days do you need?
Most visitors spend two to four days to see the main geyser basins, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Lamar or Hayden Valley.
Plan your Yellowstone trip around the roads and the wildlife
Tell us your dates and pace, and get a day-by-day route that fits road openings, drive times and the best times of day for each area.
Plan my trip