Yellowstone & Grand Teton
Geysers, bison, wolves and the jagged Tetons. Two of the most famous parks in the country sit just 10 miles apart.
Best time to visit · Wyoming & Montana & Idaho
Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park
The world's first national park: geysers, hot springs and the best wildlife in the Lower 48.
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is June and September. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for January, February and October. It's busiest in June through September.
Month by month
Best monthsJun, Sep
Best valueJan, Feb, Jun, Sep and Oct
BusiestJun–Sep
Established1872
Yellowstone by season
Winter Good
A snow-covered wonderland reached by snowcoach or guided snowmobile from mid-December to mid-March. The Lamar Valley is one of the best places on Earth to see wolves.
Spring Fair
Most roads open between late April and May. Bison calves, bears and wildlife are everywhere.
Summer Good
Everything is open, and it's very busy. Go early to Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic.
Fall Good
September is exceptional, with elk bugling, fewer people and golden light. Roads begin closing in early November.
What to do
- Watch Old Faithful erupt
- See Grand Prismatic Spring from the Fairy Falls overlook
- Look for wolves and bison in the Lamar Valley
- See the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Walk the Mammoth Hot Springs terraces
Local tip
The park is huge. Plan on at least three days, and base yourself in two different areas.
Good to know
Yellowstone was the world's first national park and holds about half of the world's active geysers.
Before you go: Most park roads close to regular vehicles from early November to April. The road from the north entrance to Cooke City stays open year-round. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Getting there
Closest major airport: Bozeman (BZN) or Jackson Hole (JAC), about 1.5 hours.
Nearby national parks
Approximate driving distance. Check a map for exact routes.
Where to stay
Yellowstone month-by-month ratings
| Month | Rating | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Good | Moderate | Best value |
| February | Good | Moderate | Best value |
| March | Fair | Quiet | |
| April | Fair | Quiet | |
| May | Good | Busy | |
| June | Prime | Peak crowds | Prime season starts · Last prime month · Best value |
| July | Good | Peak crowds | |
| August | Good | Peak crowds | |
| September | Prime | Peak crowds | Prime season starts · Last prime month · Best value |
| October | Good | Moderate | Best value |
| November | Fair | Quiet | |
| December | Fair | Quiet |
Road trips with Yellowstone
Questions about visiting Yellowstone
When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is June and September. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for January, February and October. It's busiest in June through September.
What is the worst time to visit Yellowstone National Park?
March, April, November and December are the weakest time, when snow closes roads, trails or services.
When is Yellowstone National Park most crowded?
Crowds peak in June through September. January, February, June, September and October offer the best balance of good conditions and fewer people.
Is Yellowstone National Park worth visiting in winter?
A snow-covered wonderland reached by snowcoach or guided snowmobile from mid-December to mid-March. The Lamar Valley is one of the best places on Earth to see wolves.
Do you need a reservation for Yellowstone National Park?
Most park roads close to regular vehicles from early November to April. The road from the north entrance to Cooke City stays open year-round. Always check the official NPS page for the current year's rules.
What is the closest airport to Yellowstone National Park?
The most convenient airport is Bozeman (BZN) or Jackson Hole (JAC), about 1.5 hours.
How many days do you need at Yellowstone National Park?
Most road trips spend 4 to 5 days here.
More in Rocky Mountains & Plains · National parks in Wyoming · National parks in Montana · National parks in Idaho · Season calendar
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.