Yellowstone National Park experiences a diverse climate year-round, characterized by significant temperature swings, rain, and snow throughout the year. From freezing winters to comfortable summers, the park’s climate offers a unique challenge for visitors planning their trip.
Climate Overview
Yellowstone National Park’s climate can be divided into four distinct seasons:
Summer (June to August)
- Short, comfortable, and mostly clear
- Temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C) during the day
- Cooler nights with temperatures dropping to the 30s and 40s (0°C to 10°C)
- Thunderstorms are common in the afternoons
Winter (December to February)
- Freezing, snowy, and partly cloudy
- Temperatures range from 0°F (-18°C) to 20°F (-7°C) throughout the day
- Sub-zero temperatures are common at night and higher elevations
- The record low temperature is -66°F (-54°C)
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
- Transitional seasons with unpredictable weather
- Temperatures can range from 30°F (-1°C) to 60°F (16°C) during the day
- Overnight lows in the teens to single digits (-5°C to -20°C)
- Snow is common in both seasons
Temperature and Precipitation by Month
| Month | High Temperature | Low Temperature | Precipitation | Snowfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 37°F (3°C) | 10°F (-12°C) | 1.1 in (28 mm) | 13.1 in (33 cm) |
| April | 46°F (8°C) | 20°F (-7°C) | 1.2 in (30 mm) | 5.9 in (15 cm) |
| May | 58°F (14°C) | 29°F (-2°C) | 2.0 in (51 mm) | 1.5 in (3.8 cm) |
| June | 68°F (20°C) | 36°F (2°C) | 1.5 in (38 mm) | 0.1 in (0.25 cm) |
| July | 78°F (26°C) | 41°F (5°C) | 1.5 in (38 mm) | 0.0 in (0 cm) |
| August | 76°F (24°C) | 39°F (4°C) | 1.4 in (36 mm) | 0.0 in (0 cm) |
| September | 64°F (18°C) | 30°F (-1°C) | 1.3 in (33 mm) | 0.5 in (1.3 cm) |
| October | 51°F (11°C) | 22°F (-6°C) | 1.0 in (25 mm) | 3.7 in (9.4 cm) |
| November | 34°F (1°C) | 12°F (-11°C) | 1.0 in (25 mm) | 9.0 in (23 cm) |
| December | 25°F (-4°C) | 0°F (-18°C) | 0.8 in (20 mm) | 72 in (183 cm) |
Additional Climate Information
Humidity
The humidity comfort level is based on the dew point, which determines whether perspiration will evaporate from the skin. Lower dew points feel drier, and higher dew points feel more humid.
Wind
The average hourly wind speed experiences significant seasonal variation, with the predominant wind direction coming from the west.
Sun and Moon
The length of the day varies significantly over the course of the year, with the shortest day in December and the longest day in June. Daylight saving time (DST) is observed in Yellowstone National Park.
Growing Season
The growing season typically lasts from May to October, with the first spring blooms appearing around late April.
Best Time to Visit
Tourism Score
The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park for warm-weather activities is from June to August, based on the tourism score.
Beach/Pool Score
The best time to visit for beach and pool activities is also from June to August.
Tips for Visiting
Clothing
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, including warm jackets, rain gear, and waterproof clothing.
Road Conditions
Check road statuses before visiting, as some roads may be closed due to snow or maintenance.
Weather Forecasts
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and check forecasts regularly.
References:
– Weatherspark. (n.d.). Average Weather in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, United States Year Round. Retrieved from https://weatherspark.com/y/150294/Average-Weather-in-Yellowstone-National-Park-Wyoming-United-States-Year-Round
– Yellowstone.org. (n.d.). Yellowstone Weather. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstone.org/experience/visitor-information/yellowstone-weather/
– National Park Service. (n.d.). Weather – Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/weather.htm
– Yellowstone National Park Lodges. (n.d.). Weather – Yellowstone National Park Lodges. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/stay/plan/weather/
– Yellowstone Park. (n.d.). Yellowstone Weather by Season and Month. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstonepark.com/park/weather-seasons/average-yellowstone-weather-season/