Yellowstone National Park Wyoming, USA Travel Guide
Summer (June - Early September): Warmest temperatures, 70-80°F (21-27°C) daytime, cool nights (30-50°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are common. All park roads and visitor services operate fully.
Fall (Mid-September - October): Temperatures drop (30-60°F daytime, 20-40°F nights). Snowfall may occur, especially in October. Park roads begin seasonal closures in mid-October. Services reduce hours.
Yellowstone’s mountain climate means temperatures change drastically within a single day. Always pack layers and prepare for cold, even in summer. Wildfires sometimes happen in summer, affecting air quality. Snowfall may occur in any month, especially at higher elevations, leading to road closures. Always check the official National Park Service website for current road status.
This applies specifically to seasonal closures outside of peak summer. Plan for layers and changeable conditions.
Temperature changes drastically. Pack layers.
Always pack layers and prepare for cold, even in summer, especially at higher elevations or during early mornings and evenings.
Yellowstone’s mountain climate means temperatures can change drastically within a single day. This happens often in spring and fall.
Smoke may affect air quality and visibility.
Check park alerts for current conditions and air quality information.
Summer months sometimes bring wildfires. Smoke from these fires, either within the park or nearby, may affect air quality and visibility.
Snowfall may occur any month.
Always check the official National Park Service website for current road status before traveling, especially outside of peak summer.
Snowfall may occur in any month, especially at higher elevations. Road closures due to snow occur often outside of the peak summer season.
Spring (May-early June): Excellent for newborn animals, including bison and elk calves. Bears emerge from hibernation. Fall (mid-September-October): Best for observing the elk rut (mating season) and increased bear activity before hibernation. Winter: Easier to spot bison, elk, and wolves against the snow. Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley remain prime locations.
Hiking: July through September generally grants the best hiking conditions. Most trails are clear of snow. Lower elevation trails may clear earlier in spring. Photography: Early morning and late evening grant the best light for landscapes and fewer crowds around thermal features. Wildlife is also more active during these times.
All park facilities and roads open. Warm weather for most activities. Best chance to see young wildlife.
Increased wildlife activity. Lodging rates may be lower. Variable weather conditions.
Unique winter landscape. Opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Enjoy geysers and hot springs year-round. Steam appears more visible and dramatic on cold days.
Best light in early morning and late evening. Fewer crowds and active wildlife.
This section details what you need to know, whether you are an US citizen or an international traveler.
US Citizens/Permanent Residents: No visa. A valid government-issued ID for air travel, like a driver's license or passport, is needed. International Visitors (Visa Waiver Program Eligible): Citizens of 40 countries visit the United States for up to 90 days without a visa. This needs an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Apply online at the official ESTA website at least 72 hours before travel. This application costs a fee.
International Visitors (Non-VWP Eligible): Obtain a B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism/visitor) visa. Apply at an US embassy or consulate in your home country. This process typically means completing an online application (DS-160), paying a fee, and attending an interview. Start this process many weeks or months before your trip, as appointment availability varies.
Upon arrival at an US port of entry, visitors undergo inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. Be ready to state the purpose of your visit and your intended length of stay. Answer all questions honestly and directly.
Costs vary significantly based on your travel style.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD or $). Major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, gain wide acceptance throughout the United States. This includes stores, restaurants, and hotels within Yellowstone National Park and its gateway towns.
ATMs exist in larger towns outside the park and in some park villages. However, ATM availability is limited in remote park areas. It proves beneficial to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially at roadside vendors or in very rural areas. Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to prevent fraud alerts.
Tipping functions as a standard practice in the United States, especially for service industries. For restaurants, provide 15-20% for good service. Bartenders, $1-$2 per drink. Hotel housekeeping, $2-$5 per night. Tour guides, 15-20% of the tour cost. Drivers, 15-20% of the fare.
Tipping for good service is customary across various sectors.
Not tipping may signal dissatisfaction with the service received.
For international visitors, securing a visa or ESTA approval is a first step. Services like IVisa and VisaHQ can assist in navigating application processes for various nationalities, simplifying documentation.
Online services offer convenience for visa and travel authorization applications.
Delays may occur if applications are not submitted well in advance of your trip.
When flights are delayed or canceled, knowing your rights as a passenger provides benefits. AirHelp assists passengers in seeking compensation for disruptions, aiding in situations where travel plans change unexpectedly.
Flight compensation services manage the claim process for you.
Compensation eligibility depends on specific flight disruption circumstances and regulations.
| Strategy | Benefit | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Cook Your Own Meals | Significantly cuts dining costs. | Use grocery stores in gateway towns. Utilize park picnic areas. Bring a Portable cooler. |
| Camp | Much cheaper accommodation than lodges or hotels. | Book campgrounds well in advance. Consider first-come, first-served sites if arriving early. |
| Travel in Shoulder Season | Lower lodging rates and fewer crowds. | Visit in April/May or September/October for a balance of access and savings. |
Yellowstone National Park is a wild place.
Ensure your routine vaccinations remain current (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella). Consider Hepatitis A and B vaccines. A Tetanus booster remains a good idea, especially with outdoor activities. Rabies vaccination is not typical for the average tourist.
Pack a destination-specific first aid kit (bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers like Acetaminophen, antihistamines, Anti-diarrheal medication, Moleskin/blister treatment, tweezers, small scissors, Hand sanitizer). Bring enough prescription medications for your trip plus extra days, in original containers. A compact Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight & Waterproof .7 First Aid Kit works well.
Drink only treated or Bottled water. If filtering water in the backcountry, use a reliable Water filter or Purification tablets. Practice good food hygiene to prevent foodborne illness and avoid attracting wildlife.
Altitude Sickness: Yellowstone's elevation ranges from 5,300 to over 11,300 feet. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue. Hydrate well, ascend slowly, avoid alcohol and heavy meals. Ibuprofen promotes relief for headaches. Dehydration, sunburn, and insect bites also remain common.
Dehydration: High altitude and the park's dry climate grow your risk of dehydration. Drink water constantly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Carry a Reusable water bottle and refill it often.
Sunburn/UV Exposure: High elevation means stronger UV rays. Use Broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+. Wear Wide-brimmed hats and Sunglasses. Apply Lip balm with SPF. Insect Bites: Mosquitoes and ticks exist. Use Insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin. Wear long sleeves. Check for ticks after outdoor activities.
Limited medical clinics operate seasonally within park villages. Full hospitals exist in nearby gateway towns. Dial 911 for all emergencies. Cell service remains unreliable.
Yellowstone remains wild animal habitat. Respect their space. Stay at least 100 yards (91 meters) from bears and wolves, and 25 yards (23 meters) from all other animals (bison, elk). Never feed animals; it is illegal and leads to aggressive behavior. Carry Bear spray in the backcountry and know its use.
These are extremely dangerous. Scalding hot water and unstable ground exist. Stay on boardwalks and marked trails at all times. Never touch thermal features or their runoff. Fatalities have occurred from ignoring these warnings.
Wildlife on roads is common; drive slowly, especially at dawn and dusk. Remain alert for vehicle collisions with animals. Yellowstone National Park remains a very safe destination. Violent crime occurs rarely. Main concerns include vehicle break-ins; always secure your valuables out of sight. Pacsafe offers anti-theft solutions.
Yellowstone's natural environment has unique hazards. Adhere to all safety guidelines to protect yourself and the park's fragile ecosystems.
Access to healthcare is limited within the park's vastness. Be prepared for emergencies and carry necessary contact information.
Limited medical clinics operate seasonally in some park villages (e.g., Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs). These clinics grant basic care. For serious conditions, patients receive referrals to hospitals outside the park.
Full hospitals and emergency rooms exist in nearby gateway towns. These include Bozeman, MT; Cody, WY; Jackson, WY; and Idaho Falls, ID. These facilities offer comprehensive medical services.
Dial 911 for all emergencies, including police, fire, and medical assistance. Cell service remains unreliable in much of the park. Park Rangers receive training in first aid and emergency response. Know your location to assist responders.
