What is the best month to visit Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park can get very crowded during peak season (June, July, and August). The best months to visit Yellowstone are April, September, and October. These “off season” months provide more chances to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife and enjoy thinner crowds.



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Flights to the nearest major airport — that of Jackson Hole, Wyoming — are typically cheapest between November and March, which is the park's low season. Prices for lodging begin to drop after Labor Day, once the summer crowds have diminished and children are back in school.

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The mornings (dawn until 11 a.m.) and evenings (6 p.m. until dusk) are perfect window times for beating the tour groups and family wagons and securing a spot with an uninterrupted view. If you prefer the morning, all you need is a trusty alarm clock, maybe a strong cup of coffee and an early start to the day.

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Yellowstone National Park can get very crowded during peak season (June, July, and August). The best months to visit Yellowstone are April, September, and October. These “off season” months provide more chances to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife and enjoy thinner crowds.

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The Grand Loop takes between 4 to 7 hours to drive in full. During the summer season, cars are the best option for taking a trip around Yellowstone unless you are riding with a bus tour or concessionaire that provides transportation.

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Generally speaking, April, May and June have the most rain, or even snow; July and August are the driest and warmest months, with temperatures typically rising into the 70s and 80s.

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Staying in Yellowstone is the best way for visitors to experience everything the park has to offer. With nine lodging facilities offering over 2,000 rooms in the summer, accommodations in Yellowstone are plentiful for those wishing to experience the national park in its summertime glory.

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The Bottom Line While they are located adjacent to each other, they offer distinct experiences for visitors. Yellowstone is known for its geothermal features, abundant wildlife, and hiking trails, while Grand Teton is famous for its high peaks, pristine lakes, and historical buildings.

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A Yellowstone vacation package costs from $1,000/person for four nights to $5,000 or more per person. Not including tax and tips. Check out my itineraries and guidebooks for planning your own trip.

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Fall: The Beartooth Highway (east of Cooke City) and Dunraven Pass (between Tower Junction and Canyon) typically close around mid October (weather dependent). By early November, ALL park roads close (with exception of the road between the North Entrance and the Northeast Entrance).

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It can snow in July or reach 70 degrees in late fall. We recommend you pack for all seasons, even in the summer months. Nights can get below freezing and days can get chilly, especially during and after a rainstorm.

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The weather in Yellowstone in August is pleasant and mild, with average temperatures ranging from 40 degrees Fahrenheit as the low and 70 degrees Fahrenheit as the high. Additionally, there is no snowfall during this month of the year, and only about an inch and a half of rain.

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Elk. Elk or wapiti (Cervus canadensis) are the most abundant large mammal found in Yellowstone; paleontological evidence confirms their continuous presence for at least 1,000 years. Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872, when market hunting of all large grazing animals was rampant.

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Although an entrance pass is required to enter Yellowstone National Park, vehicle reservations are not needed. You are encouraged to purchase an entrance pass before arriving to save time, but you may also purchase passes at any entrance station upon arrival. Find out more about entrance passes below.

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You can tour Yellowstone on your own, but if you download the GuideAlong (previously GyPSy Guide) app, you'll get an insider's perspective of the park without having to go on a tour. It's like having your own guide in the car with you.

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