Best time to visit Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park has three main seasons:
1️⃣ Winter Season (November to May)
During this time, most roads are closed, but you can still access the park via guided snowmobile tours or snowcoaches.
It’s a magical, quiet experience, but limited in accessibility.
2️⃣ Summer Season (Mid-June to Mid-September)
This is the most predictable season in terms of weather—expect warm, sunny days and fewer surprises.
It’s also the busiest time of the year, with heavy traffic and lots of visitors.
If you're visiting Yellowstone for the first time or flying in from overseas for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, summer is your safest bet. While it’s busy, Yellowstone is so vast that, with careful planning, you can still avoid crowds and have an amazing experience.
3️⃣ Shoulder Seasons (May to Mid-June, and September to the end of October)
These are my personal favorites! Fewer visitors, better prices on lodging, and an overall quieter experience.
However, the weather can be unpredictable, and snowstorms might temporarily close roads, so always stay flexible and check conditions frequently.
If you’re comfortable with a little uncertainty and want to enjoy fewer crowds, this is the perfect time to visit.
Visit my youtube for more info.
If this isn’t your first time in Yellowstone, shoulder seasons are a fantastic choice. I especially love May and September for visiting both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Just keep an eye on the weather by regularly checking the official Yellowstone website and using tools like the Wyoming 511 app for up-to-date road conditions.
One thing to keep in mind—nature is unpredictable! For example, in 2022, Yellowstone experienced major flooding that affected accessibility during early summer. In 2024, wildfires came dangerously close to the park, which can happen during mid to late summer. The key to having a great experience in Yellowstone? Flexibility and a positive attitude!
For more tips and to get your hands on ready-made itineraries, visit this page. Careful planning makes all the difference in Yellowstone, and I’ve got you covered!
