Yellowstone National Park
Your month-by-month wildlife calendar
When to Visit Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone offers distinct wildlife experiences each season. Summer (June-August) is peak season with all roads open and bears, wolves, and bison visible. Spring brings newborn animals and dramatic geothermal activity. Winter transforms the park into a snow-covered wilderness with bison herds and wolf packs more easily tracked against white backgrounds.
Month-by-Month Calendar
Click on any month to see detailed wildlife and weather information
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
🎯 Our Recommendation
Late June through July offers the best all-round experience. Roads are fully open, bear cubs and bison calves are active, wolf packs hunt in the Lamar Valley at dawn, and wildflowers carpet the meadows. Arrive at sunrise for the best wildlife encounters.
Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park FAQ
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is May to June and September to October for wildlife and fewer crowds. Winter from December to February offers unique wolf watching in snow and steaming bison in geothermal areas.
Summer highs reach 25 to 30 degrees Celsius with cold nights near 0 degrees at higher elevations. Spring and autumn bring snow. Winter temperatures drop to minus 20 degrees or colder.
September to October and April to May offer lower lodging rates outside peak summer. Travelling during shoulder or low seasons can save you 20 to 40% on accommodation and tours while still providing excellent wildlife viewing.
Peak season at Yellowstone National Park is July and August during summer school holidays. Book accommodation and tours well in advance for peak dates, as popular lodges and camps sell out months ahead.