Yellowstone National Park in March offers a unique and enchanting winter experience, with abundant snow, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a seasoned park enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you plan your Yellowstone adventure during the shoulder season.
Weather in Yellowstone Park in March
- Temperatures: March in Yellowstone is a wild weather month, with temperatures ranging from the single digits to the 50s Fahrenheit. Expect colder weather, especially closer to the mountains around Cooke City.
- Road Conditions: The only park road open to personal vehicle travel in March is the road from Gardiner, Montana to Cooke City, Montana, which passes through Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley. The road may still have patches of snow and compact ice, so drive slowly and watch for wildlife.
Things to Do in Yellowstone Park in March
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
Many trails at lower elevations are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, offering a great opportunity to explore the park in winter. Join guided tours for interpretive knowledge about the park.
Wildlife Viewing
March is an excellent time for wildlife viewing in Yellowstone. Bison, pronghorn, wolves, and mountain goats can be easily spotted in the Lamar Valley, Tower Area, and Mammoth Hot Springs.
Guided Tours
Take advantage of guided skiing and snowshoeing tours to learn more about the park’s unique features and ecology.
What to See in Yellowstone Park in March
Old Faithful
Accessible only by over-snow vehicles before March 15, this iconic geyser is a must-see for any Yellowstone visitor.
Mammoth Hot Springs
Accessible throughout winter by car, this destination features unique hot springs and hiking trails.
Lamar Valley
Accessible throughout winter by car, this area is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially at dawn and dusk.
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Accessible only by over-snow vehicles before March 15, the canyon is even more impressive in the winter with snow-covered slopes and the icy Yellowstone River.
Is Visiting Yellowstone Park in March Worth It?
Pros
- Fewer visitors, making for a more peaceful and serene experience
- Unique winter landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities
- Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities
Cons
- Many park amenities and destinations are closed
- The weather can be extremely cold and snowy, requiring proper preparation
What to Wear in Yellowstone Park in March
- Layers: Bring layers to put on or take off, including warm jackets, pants, hats, and gloves.
- Snow Bibs: Snow bibs are a must, along with multiple layers of clothes, thick socks, insulated boots, and face coverings.
Cost and Timings in Yellowstone Park in March
Snowmobile and Snowcoach Tours
Book these tours in advance to access areas like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
Guided Skiing and Snowshoeing Tours
Join these tours for interpretive knowledge about the park.
Road Closures
Interior roads close to over-snow traffic on March 15, and all remaining roads close on March 15.
Directory and Hours in Yellowstone Park in March
Park Hours
Check the park’s website for specific hours and closures.
Visitor Centers
Check the park’s website for visitor center hours and availability.
Rates and Value in Yellowstone Park in March
Tour Costs
Vary depending on the tour operator and type of tour.
Park Entrance Fees
Check the park’s website for current entrance fees.
References
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60999-i481-k11279221-Yellowstone_in_March-Yellowstone_National_Park_Wyoming.html
- https://www.reddit.com/r/yellowstone/comments/yv48hh/yellowstone_in_late_februaryearly_march/
- https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/visiting-yellowstone-in-winter.htm
- https://wildlandtrekking.com/yellowstone-visitor-guide/visiting-yellowstone-in-march/
- https://outdoor-society.com/what-to-expect-when-visiting-yellowstone-national-park-in-march/