Yellowstone National Park experiences a diverse range of temperatures throughout the year, influenced by its high elevation and alpine weather patterns. From the chilly winters to the mild summers, visitors to this iconic park need to be prepared for the ever-changing weather conditions.
Yellowstone Park Temperature Range by Month
Spring Temperatures (March to May)
As the snow begins to melt and the days grow longer, Yellowstone’s spring temperatures can be quite variable. In March, the average high is 37°F (3°C) and the average low is 10°F (-12°C), with around 13.1 inches (33 cm) of snowfall. By April, the temperatures have risen, with an average high of 46°F (8°C) and an average low of 20°F (-7°C), and the snowfall has decreased to around 5.9 inches (15 cm). May brings even warmer weather, with an average high of 58°F (14°C) and an average low of 29°F (-2°C), and the snowfall has reduced to just 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).
Summer Temperatures (June to August)
The summer months in Yellowstone are generally mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) in June to 78°F (26°C) in July. Overnight lows can still be quite cool, with average lows of 36°F (2°C) in June and 41°F (5°C) in July. Precipitation is relatively low during the summer, with around 1.5 inches (38 mm) of rainfall per month, and snowfall is minimal, with only 0.1 inches (0.25 cm) in June.
Fall Temperatures (September to November)
As autumn approaches, Yellowstone’s temperatures begin to drop. In September, the average high is 64°F (18°C) and the average low is 30°F (-1°C), with around 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) of snowfall. By October, the average high has decreased to 51°F (11°C) and the average low is 22°F (-6°C), with around 3.7 inches (9.4 cm) of snowfall. November brings much colder weather, with an average high of 34°F (1°C) and an average low of 12°F (-11°C), and around 9.0 inches (23 cm) of snowfall.
Winter Temperatures (December to February)
Yellowstone’s winters are truly harsh, with average high temperatures ranging from 25°F (-4°C) in December to 26°F (-3°C) in February. The average lows during this time can plummet well below freezing, with lows of 0°F (-18°C) in December, -3°F (-19°C) in January, and -2°F (-19°C) in February. Snowfall is also significant, with around 12.1 inches (31 cm) in December, 14.1 inches (36 cm) in January, and 12.9 inches (33 cm) in February.
Visitors to Yellowstone National Park should be prepared for the wide range of temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year. By understanding the typical temperatures and precipitation patterns, travelers can pack the appropriate clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience in this stunning natural wonder.
References:
- https://www.yellowstonepark.com/park/weather-seasons/average-yellowstone-weather-season/
- https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/weather.htm
- https://weatherspark.com/y/150294/Average-Weather-in-Yellowstone-National-Park-Wyoming-United-States-Year-Round
- https://yellowstone.net/intro/introduction-to-yellowstone/weather-and-climate/
- https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/stay/plan/weather/