cheapest time to travel to yellowstone

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » North America » USA » How To Visit Yellowstone on a Budget – MUST READ! • 2024

How To Visit Yellowstone on a Budget – MUST READ! • 2024

Yellowstone National Park is as great as the great outdoors gets. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous across the entire world. From geysers and hot springs to canyons and hikes, this is a must visit for every adventure traveller.

But the park is not exactly cheap to visit. Paying a visit to Old Faithful isn’t without paying for that ticket.

Yellowstone visitor numbers are controlled, but this hasn’t stopped the annual rise in prices. Even though nature and fresh air are free, it seems harder than ever to visit Yellowstone National Park on a budget. You might be wondering how to visit Yellowstone on a budget? Well, fear not fellow backpacker, you’re in safe hands.

Which is where this guide comes in! Combining personal experience with hints and travel tips from locals and travel experts, we’ve compiled this small guide to visiting Yellowstone on a budget.

Accommodation and dining doesn’t have to cost you through the nose. Would camping in Yellowstone stretch the budget further? Plus you’ll find some tricks to help you save cash.

It’s not easy to visit the park on a budget – but it’s definitely not impossible. 

So let’s jump right in and I’ll share how to visit Yellowstone on a budget.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Where to Stay in Yellowstone

How to get around yellowstone, how to eat at yellowstone on a budget, yellowstone highlights, top tips for yellowstone on a budget, faqs – yellowstone on a budget, final thoughts on exploring yellowstone.

Staying inside Yellowstone park itself is notoriously expensive. So overall, you’re better off staying in a spot that’s just outside the park and making visits inside the national park. It might be one of the best destinations for August and the rest of the summer months, but it can be busy, so book ahead!

You’ll need a car to get around Yellowstone anyway, so it really isn’t that much extra hassle to drive a few extra miles. You’ll be rewarded with affordable room rates, cheap restaurants, and secluded spaces.

Still, some areas are more expensive than others. West Yellowstone is the most popular destination – especially for those without a car since there are lots of tour operators in the town; this makes it one of the more expensive places to stay.

So where should you stay near Yellowstone National Park on a budget?

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Just across the border in Montana, Gardiner is only a couple of minutes drive away from Yellowstone National Park. This is one of the larger towns on the outskirts – but doesn’t come with the same tourist crowds as West Yellowstone. This makes it a fantastic place for finding deals on accommodation like a budget-friendly guesthouse .

Whilst there aren’t many attractions in the town itself, it is particularly popular with those focused on checking out the attractions in the north of the park. Mammoth Hot Springs is on the road into the park – and should be the first stop on your itinerary.

Gardiner has maintained an Old West atmosphere to this day and is known for friendly locals. There’s plenty of wildlife in the area, meaning you don’t even have to venture into the park. This can save you from a visit into Yellowstone National Park itself – which charges per entry. 

The Yellowstone River runs right by the town and offers some great hikes in its own right. Whilst the restaurants are mostly locally owned, they offer a surprising variety of cuisines. In many ways, Gardiner just feels like the park itself but without the extortionate costs and massive crowds.

As you can tell, the northern end of the park tends to be the cheapest. Cooke City is also across the border along the road in Montana – but on the eastern side. In many ways, it offers much the same as Gardiner, but it’s a little bit bigger with more shops and restaurants on offer.

Cooke City is a great option to find beautiful rustic accommodation on a budget – but still with plenty of tourist amenities. There are 2 creeks that run through the town offering some laid-back walks.

Whilst Cooke City is undeniably larger than Gardiner, it is still laid-back in atmosphere. Truly it is a city in name only! This makes it an excellent location for campers looking for somewhere to stay. Even if you’d rather stay at an organised campsite, these are far cheaper than those in the park itself.

Cooke City is a little bit further from the entrance to Yellowstone National Park – about an extra 20 minutes by car. Your first point of entry will be the Tower area . This is the most rustic part of the park and a great spot for escaping the huge tourist crowds around the main sights.

Camping in Yellowstone

There are a number of options for camping in and around Yellowstone National Park to suit a variety of budgets. But you’re actually better off camping outside of the park itself.

With a solid sleep system , Cooke City offers the cheapest options year-round, but you’ll have to drive a little bit longer to get into the national park. In the off-season, you’ll find some excellent deals in the West Yellowstone campsites.

Within the park itself, campsite rates can get quite pricey – but these sites are totally worth it. You’ll find the facilities are incredibly high quality, with many of them also hosting social events for campers. This is the oldest national park in the United States – so they know what they’re doing.

It can get cold and rainy around Yellowstone. It will definitely be worth it to prepare well with a high-quality camping tent .

You can also opt for backcountry camping in the park – but you still have to buy a permit. Numbers are limited, and the amount of time you can stay is also restricted (to a maximum of 3 nights). This is obviously much cheaper, but it’s definitely that you already have experience camping.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Travelling by car is the most popular way to get around the park. There isn’t any public transport within the park, but there is a great road network. The central ring loops around the best-known attractions, and there’s a second ring connecting visitors with northern destinations.

So what if you don’t have a car or you’re not sure still on hitchhiking ? Hope isn’t lost – but you’ll need to be prepared to spend a little more money.

Renting a car is easy enough. But if you want a cheap car rental for Yellowstone, it will really be worth shopping around.

There are some fantastic tours around the park departing from towns on the outskirts. West Yellowstone is home to more tours than others – but it is also one of the more expensive areas to stay in.

There is a third option – you can travel by bike ! You’ll need to do a lot of planning because the park is huge.

But for experienced cyclists, this is a really rewarding way to get around the park AND a great way to stay fit on the road. It can be quite challenging – so it’s not the best place for novice cyclists to start up. 

You also need to take extra care during the winter. Cycling isn’t possible at all, and even driving can be difficult. Always check the forecast before you set off, and be prepared to have to turn back if conditions don’t look favourable.

How to visit Yellowstone on a budget when it comes to food, the cheapest option is to bring food with you. You can equip yourself with a trusty backpacking stove and food before you arrive at the national park. Although this isn’t always possible if you’re travelling long distance to get here.

Both Gardiner and Cooke City have some great stores where you can stock up on supplies to cook your own food , even if you choose to camp. You’ll also find all of the villages in the park itself come with convenience stores, but these are generally more expensive.

What if you want to eat out a couple of times during your stay? There are some excellent options to cater to most tastes within the park. Breakfasts aren’t actually that expensive (usually around $5-10). So if you want to prioritise one hot meal per day that is the best option for those on a budget.

Of course, many visitors like to treat themselves one night during their trip. In this case, you’ll find some of the best mid-range and upscale restaurants in and around Canyon. It’s well worth budgeting for, with some of the best meat on offer in this part of the United States.

Why Should You Travel to Yellowstone National Park with a Water Bottle?

Whilst there’s a lot that we can do when it comes to travelling responsibly , reducing your plastic consumption is one of the easiest and most impactful things you can do. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, don’t take plastic shopping bags, and forget straws. All of this just ends up in landfills or in the ocean.

Beyond plastic pollution, staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your body. So carrying a reusable water bottle is a no-brainer. Take care of yourself, and take care of our beautiful planet.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

So depending on how much time you have, you might not get around to all the highlights of Yellowstone. But here are some of the best things to see during your visit to the National Park.

Old Faithful

An enduring symbol of the park, no trip to Yellowstone is complete without checking out this iconic geyser. It’s one of the most regular in the park, so you can time your trip around it.

Alongside the hot springs, you’ll also find some fantastic geothermal attractions. There’s also a small retail area, and one of the last remaining log hotels in the United States. Make sure you bring your camera and some cash for souvenirs.

Fishing Bridge

Fishing Bridge dates back to 1902 and gets its name from its historic use as a fishing site. The activity has been banned these days to allow the fish population to regrow – but you can still visit and admire the fish from the top.

The Fishing Bridge Museum and Visitor centre nearby is an architectural artefact in its own right – serving as the framework for similar buildings across the United States. It’s also where you can grab information about the park.

If you want to veer away from the main tourist routes, Tower has a much more off-road vibe. This is one of the best places in the park to spot wildlife – including elk, wolves, and eagles.

Natural attractions like the Petrified Tree give this area a unique landscape. You can also learn more about local wildlife at the Buffalo Ranch. They do a lot of work to prevent buffalo extinction so be sure to leave a generous donation.

Mammoth is where you will find the park headquarters. It’s the perfect spot for grabbing information about the Yellowstone hikes .

You can also find the magical Mammoth Hot Springs here. This natural wonder is known for its calcite terraces – naturally flat edges where the water runs down.

The Gardner River is a short walk away and perfect for those interested in discovering local plant life. During certain seasons you can also spot eagles, ospreys, and kingfishers along the river.

Stretching for 20 miles through the park, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a must-see geological attraction. You can actually complete a hike around the canyon in one day – though many visitors opt to split it between 2 days as it is quite a strenuous walk.

Nearby, the Hayden Valley is a great spot for discovering wildlife (from the safety of your car) and Mt Washburn is a major volcanic formation . This is definitely a place to remember for the rest of your life.

MATH TIME: The entry fee for Yellowstone National Park is $35. Meanwhile, the entry fee for the neighbouring Grand Teton National Park is another $35. That means that visiting TWO national parks alone (out of the 423 total in the USA) will run you a grand total of $70…

Or you can stuff that whole deal off and buy the ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for  $79.99.  With it, you get unlimited access to ALL federally-managed land in the U.S.A for FREE – that’s over 2000 recreational sites! Ain’t that just beautiful?

• Stock up outside the park – whether its fuel for your car or yourself, you’ll find everything is cheaper outside the park (even in the villages that are right on the boundary).
• Camp in the surrounding areas – if you’ve got a car it’s well worth considering. It will save a ton of money.
• Keep a budget to treat yourself – this is a once in a lifetime destination, so be realistic about how much you’re likely to spend on souvenirs and ice cream.
• Visiting multiple national parks in one year? – An America The Beautiful Pass is a really good deal on US national park entries.
• Plan, plan, plan! – Accept that you likely won’t get to see everything, but plan out your routes thoroughly before you arrive – you’ll be surprised with how much you save.
• The most famous attractions are free – don’t worry too much about hitting up the museums in Yellowstone National Park ; most of the information is online anyway.

Is Yellowstone an expensive vacation?

Without caution, yes. Yellowstone budget hotels exist, but they are few and far between. Food can also be expensive. Camping in Yellowstone and making your own food will save a ton of money!

How many days do you need in Yellowstone?

At least 3 days in Yellowstone National Park is good. In this time, you can see the top sights like Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful. Remember, Yellowstone is BIG! So factor in the time it will take to go between places too.

Does it cost to see Old Faithful?

Yes. To see Old Faithful, you need to pay $35 for a Yellowstone entrance pass, although it is valid for 7 days. If you’re visiting more national parks in the USA, you can get an ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for free admission to ALL of them.

How long does it take to drive the loop in Yellowstone?

At least 4 hours. With traffic, animals, and stopping for the view it could take up to around 7 hours. It’s busier out of peak season. So if you want a more chill visit, avoid the summer.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Yellowstone National Park is a truly stunning destination! Whether you’re interested in hiking, photography, or the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet – Yellowstone should be on your bucket list.

It looks like staycations are going to be the most popular form of travel for a little while yet. So why not take this opportunity to explore one of the most beautiful corners of the United States?

There’s no denying that prices in Yellowstone National Park are constantly going up and up and up. Accommodation and dining can wipe out your entire budget if you’re not careful. A UNESCO World Heritage Site doesn’t come without a cost.

Thankfully, there are still some great ways to save money. Camping, picnics, and cycling are fantastic ways to see the national park and avoid the skyrocketing costs.

Plus, the best attractions are free! So once you’ve bought your park entry pass you’re ready to go.

Now you’re fully equipped to take on Yellowstone on a budget, it’s time for you to take on the adventure for yourself! See you there.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

Thank you so much for this article! We are taking my daughter to celebrate her graduating with her environmental science degree. We’ve never been and looking so forward!

We are going in May and this site has helped me plan ! Thank you so much !

Thanks I’ve always wanted to visit Yellowstone but don’t have the money thanks for your help maybe some day a can

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Yellowstone National Park   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Different_Brian | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Yellowstone National Park

The best times to visit Yellowstone National Park are from late April to May as well as September through early October. These shoulder months offer mild weather, fewer crowds and little to no road closures. July and August are the most popular months to visit: The kids are out of school, and the weather is warm enough to sleep outside. However, this park is no stranger to the cold. Temperatures have been known to drop into the 30s during the summer in the higher elevation areas of the park. During the winter, expect a wide range of temps, spanning from subzero digits to the high 20s. Don't let that stop you: There's nothing quite like seeing plumes of steam rise from beneath a thick blanket of snow and ice.

Weather in Yellowstone National Park

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Popular Times to Visit Yellowstone National Park

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

Explore More of Yellowstone National Park

Things To Do

Best Hotels

You might also like

Salt Lake City

# 12 in  Best Places to Visit in Utah

Jackson Hole

# 3 in  Best Ski Trips in the U.S.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Tips

The Best Times to Visit Yellowstone National Park

These are the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park for smaller crowds, great weather, and more.

As the first national park in the world, Yellowstone offers visitors the chance to experience both stunning natural beauty and an important piece of history. Millions of people travel to the park each year to see its famous hot springs and hundreds of geysers — including the legendary Old Faithful.

While an argument could be made for visiting during every season of the year, factors like crowd size, weather, and more can help you decide what time is best for you. For a basic overview, remember that the park's tourist seasons are as follows.

• High Season: June to August
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May and September to October
• Low Season: November to March

No matter what kind of a trip you're after, here are the best (and worst) times to visit Yellowstone National Park.

Vince Fergus/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Yellowstone for Smaller Crowds

Although many people are hesitant to plan outdoor-based vacations during the winter, they can sometimes be the most rewarding. When winter arrives at Yellowstone , snow blankets the mountainous landscape — and leaves the most popular attractions blissfully crowd-free. For the adventurous (and those willing to brave the biting cold), the park is home to some of the most overlooked backcountry skiing in the country. Just be sure to check for road closures well in advance, as they can hinder your attempts to visit Yellowstone.

For a trip that offers modest crowds and less extreme weather, try visiting in April, May, or October. These months typically see well under a million visitors combined — far fewer than the 2.5 million seen each year between June and August. And, while wintry weather can pop up, conditions tend to be manageable, especially at low altitudes. With a spring or fall visit, hiking, backpacking, and more can be enjoyed without the bumper-to-bumper traffic or congested trails of a Yellowstone summer.

Best Times to Visit Yellowstone for Good Weather

Due to Yellowstone's high elevation, the weather can turn extreme at any time of year. Winter typically sees bitter cold and deep snow, and these chilly conditions usually linger into the early spring. In late spring and in fall, temperatures tend to range from 30 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit — though pop-up bouts of far lower temperatures aren't uncommon.

Summer, then, is the time to visit if you want predictably pleasant weather. Temperatures usually top out at around 70 degrees in June and in the low 80s in July and August, with average lows around 40. A summer visit to Yellowstone should bring good conditions during the daytime, but be warned that chilly nights can bring frost, and that snow and ice are always possible at high elevations.

One thing you won't need to worry about? A rainy season. Though the winter months can see hundreds of inches of snowfall, precipitation for the rest of the year tends to be consistently sparse, with an average of just 1.5 inches or so per month.

Best Times to Visit Yellowstone for Lower Prices

Flights to the nearest major airport — that of Jackson Hole, Wyoming — are typically cheapest between November and March, which is the park's low season. Prices for lodging begin to drop after Labor Day, once the summer crowds have diminished and children are back in school. If you're going to visit during this less-expensive season, though, keep in mind that it'll require some creative planning. Seasonal road closures in Yellowstone begin in late September or October (depending on weather), and many services shut down in the winter.

If you're a regular visitor, you can save some money year-round with an annual pass. The standard seven-day entrance pass for personal vehicles costs $35, but yearly passes only cost $70 — making them a worthy investment for any traveler who plans to visit the park more than twice in a year. Fee-free days are also worth watching for, though you'd have to balance your cost savings against the enormous crowds these free-entry dates draw in.

Best Times to Visit Yellowstone for Wildlife

Wildlife can be viewed year-round at Yellowstone, though the seasons will affect what species you see. March and April are the best months to view bears, while the winter months are best for wolves and bighorn sheep. Elk, moose, bison, and mountain goats can be spotted during the summer, which is also the park's busiest season. Fall, meanwhile, is a great time to see bears, elk, and raptors while enjoying milder weather.

No matter what kind of animals you're out to see, be sure to maintain a safe distance for both your safety and the animals' well-being. The park specifically asks that visitors do not approach wildlife to take photographs or selfies.

Best Times to Visit Yellowstone for Photography

It can be argued that there is no bad time for photographers to make a pilgrimage to Yellowstone. But during peak season, there will definitely be other people in those shots. For travelers looking to photograph this classic American landscape, it can be worthwhile to visit during the winter months, when the park is much less crowded (read: no families blocking your view of Old Faithful). The winter is also a beautiful time to photograph snowfall and steam rising from the hot springs and geysers.

For a photography-friendly visit under more pleasant skies, try visiting in the fall. Temperatures will be a bit warmer, and the stunning colors of Yellowstone's aspens and cottonwoods will make your photos sure to wow.

Worst Times to Visit Yellowstone

Since Yellowstone offers breathtaking sights year-round, the least-desirable season to visit depends on your priorities. For many travelers, winter can be the most challenging time. Temperatures rarely exceed 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and heavy snow renders many roads impassable. That said, a winter visit offers unparalleled opportunities for backcountry snow sports — and the ultra-low visitor counts mean you'll have far more peace and quiet than at other times of year.

Summer, meanwhile, is popular for a reason, with its great weather and accessible attractions and services — but it will be packed. Yellowstone has seen as many as a million guests per month in recent summers, so this high season may not be for you if you'd prefer an uncrowded visit.

For the best balance between weather and crowd size, try visiting just before Memorial Day or just after Labor Day, when you should find mild weather and a fraction of the high-summer crowds.

Related Articles

The Best Times to Visit Yellowstone

With approximately four million visitors each year, Yellowstone is one of the nation's most popular parks — and rightfully so.

The park sits on top of the Yellowstone Caldera — the largest supervolcano in North America — and is home to approximately 10,000 geothermal features. Visitors stare in awe as the famous Old Faithful geyser erupts throughout the day, spewing up to 8,400 gallons of scalding water over 100 feet in the air, or at the steam rising from the Grand Prismatic hot springs.

But the geothermal features aren't the only draw. Largely in Wyoming but stretching into Montana and Idaho, too, the park's 2.2 million acres are home to a diverse variety of wildlife such as bison, mountain goats and elk. The mountainous landscape is also ideal for downhill and cross-country skiing, hiking and fishing.

When it comes to determining the "best" time to visit Yellowstone, it ultimately depends on what kind of trip you hope to have. Do you want to strap on your skis and head into the backcountry, or are you in search of warm, dry weather? Does your dream Yellowstone trip include wildlife sightings, cheap flights or thin crowds?

Plan accordingly, visit at the right time and you'll have an incredible trip to this national treasure.

The Best Weather in Yellowstone

As is true of any high-elevation mountainous region, weather can vary significantly and be unpredictable. Overall, July through September are the warmest and driest months in Yellowstone, with highs reaching into the 70s in July and August, and dropping to the 60s in September. On average, there are between five and seven days of rain during this time. Highs in the spring and fall are usually between 30 and 60 degrees, and between zero and 20 during the winter. It is not uncommon to see snow at higher elevations during any month of the year, so be sure to pack warm layers and waterproof gear.

When to Visit Yellowstone for Events

While there are isn't much scheduled in the spring, there are plenty of programs and events to participate in during the winter, summer and fall. In the winter, the park offers ranger-led guided snowshoe walks and the Geysers Galore talk, in addition to other educational activities. In the summer and fall, there are a variety of guided walks, talks, programs and events such as the Junior Ranger Wildlife Olympics and the Geyser Hill walk.

In terms of geothermal events, the park is geothermally active year round. During the winter, however, the steam from erupting geysers and hot springs looks especially lovely against the snow-covered landscape.

The Best Time to see Wildlife in Yellowstone

Yellowstone is known for its abundant wildlife that can be viewed year-round. However, if there is a specific species you're hoping to photograph (or, well, Instagram), some months are better than others.

Wildlife in the Spring

Many animals such as elk, bison, bears and wolves can be found in the meadows and valleys during the spring, which runs from April through early June.

Wildlife in the Summer

When summer arrives, many of the species living in Yellowstone (save for bison) head to higher elevations in search of cooler temperatures, so expect fewer sightings between mid-June and August.

Wildlife in the Fall

The animals return to the meadows and valleys in the fall (September through October). This is an especially great time to witness elk rutting, when male elk, or bulls, try to impress the female elk. Expect a lot of loud bugling, the occasional duel and, more than anything, a bunch of elk strutting around showing off.

Wildlife in the Winter

Winter, which runs from November through March, is also a surprisingly great time to view wildlife. Animals remain near the valleys and can sometimes be seen keeping warm near a geyser or hot spring. It is also the best time to view wolves. The bighorn sheep rut occurs during the early winter months, too.

But no matter what month you visit Yellowstone, it's extremely important to remember that wildlife is just that: wild . Be sure to never feed or touch any animals and always view them from a safe distance.

When to Avoid the Crowds

From November through March, frigid temperatures drive away the park's notorious crowds. While not all travelers are willing to face the freezing weather to have some one-on-one time with Old Faithful, those who are will be rewarded with a serene, quiet landscape blanketed in white. October and April are also slower months and see far fewer tourists — and daily highs can exceed freezing. It's a win-win!

Just remember, services are limited during the winter, so be sure to check for road closures and service availability before making any plans.

The Cheapest Time to Visit Yellowstone

Flights and lodging are usually cheapest during the shoulder season (spring) and winter, which is Yellowstone's slow season. Prices usually tend to drop after Labor Day and don't begin to rise until March. Of course, airfare trends vary depending on location of origin.

Affordable Airfare

Based on historical data from 2017 and 2018 from the travel search engine Skyscanner.com , flights to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) — which is just 49 miles to the South Entrance of the park — from New York and Los Angeles are cheapest in March. If you're coming from Chicago, however, flight prices drop in May. You may have better luck finding cheap flights to Yellowstone from Washington, DC in July and August.

Affordable Hotels

According to historical data collected by Priceline in 2017 and 2018 at the nearby towns of Cody, Gardiner, Jackson and Island Park, lodging was most expensive in June and July and cheapest in November and December. Overall, Cody, Wyoming is the cheapest place to stay regardless of month.

If you're looking to cash in points for a free stay any time of year, you can use 25,000 World of Hyatt points at the Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa in Jackson; 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points at the Springhill Suites also in Jackson; and, during peak season, 70,000 Hilton Honors points at the Homewood Suites in Jackson. Rates drop as low as 42,000 points per night during the winter. And, since Hilton doesn't maintain a public award chart with categories, your mileage may vary.

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?

Feb 8, 2023 • 5 min read

Every season brings a new adventure for the whole family at Yellowstone National Park © Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

Yellowstone is the world’s oldest national park, and its more than 3400 square miles are full of incredible wildlife viewing, powerful geysers and other geothermal features, and beautiful scenery. Each season provides a different visitor experience, so considering the time of year is imperative when planning your visit.

The park’s busiest season is late May through September. Most of the park’s roads are closed to cars from late fall through spring, with most gradually reopening in late April and May, though during inclement weather any road can close. Services are very limited outside of peak season – keep the weather in mind as you plan, and be prepared for changing conditions at any time of year, from snow or thunderstorms in summer to winter’s fierce blizzards and subzero temperatures.

It's worth taking the time to learn about wildlife safety to prepare you for any wildlife you might encounter, from bison to bears. Keep a safe distance (minimum distance from bears and wolves is 100 yards, with a minimum of 25 yards for other species), and read up on bear safety as well as the park’s other safety tips, including other wildlife, geothermal features, and environmental and driving conditions.

Entrance to the park costs $35 for a private vehicle for seven days, though a variety of other types of passes are also available, including annual passes. Camping fees and some hiking permits are an additional cost. Here’s how to time your next trip to Yellowstone National Park.

June to August is the best time for camping

Most of Yellowstone’s campgrounds open in May or June and close in early fall, so summer is prime time if you want to sleep under the stars. Reserve sites as early as possible if you have your heart set on camping. Pitch a tent, go for hikes, explore the park’s hydrothermal areas (be sure to see the famous Old Faithful geyser), observe wildlife, cook meals together, and make memories for a lifetime. If you prefer backcountry camping, consider a detour off the beaten track .

While summer is the park’s busiest season, the crowds are there for a reason. Weather and construction permitting, all the park’s roads are generally open and Yellowstone is at its most accessible. In summer daytime temperatures are often 70-80°F, though some areas can drop below freezing at night, so be sure to bring what you need to stay cozy and warm. Summer thunderstorms are common, and snow is possible. When camping in bear country, it's imperative you keep a clean camp and lock all food away securely.

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Jul 21, 2024 • 6 min read

Here are our top budget tips, along with a guide to daily costs, for a cost-effective trip to Montana.

Jul 20, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 9, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Jun 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 30, 2023 • 6 min read

Jul 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 17, 2024 • 6 min read

BEST WEEK EVER

Try out unlimited access with 7 days of Outside+ for free.

Start Your Free Trial

Powered by Outside

9 Tips to Visit Yellowstone on a Budget

Wondering whether to fly or drive where to stay to save money here’s everything you need to know to plan an affordable vacation to yellowstone without sacrificing fun..

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Reddit

Planning a budget friendly Yellowstone vacation isn’t as easy as it might seem. Tucked in the northwest corner of Wyoming and southern edges of Montana, Yellowstone’s remote location has, no doubt, helped preserve its natural wonders. But being so far from a metropolitan area can drive up lodging, flights, gas and food costs. After years of visiting Yellowstone, we’ve learned how to enjoy the park and not break the bank. Here are nine insider tips to save money on your next Yellowstone vacation.

Weigh Whether Driving or Flying to Yellowstone Is More Affordable

Everyone planning a Yellowstone vacation has to decide whether they will drive or fly. If you’re a family of five traveling from Chicago to Yellowstone , it may be most cost-effective to drive. You won’t spend money on airline tickets or a rental car. And while you’ll need to pay for hotels, food and gas along the way, those costs are manageable. To save on food costs, stay at inexpensive hotels where breakfast is included, pack snacks and stock your cooler with lunch foods. Better yet, if you’re a camper, pack your tent and camp stove and stay at campgrounds along the way.

If you have airline miles or limited time, it may be cheaper to fly and rent a car at the airport. Yellowstone visitors fly into a mix of regional and international airports, all with pros and cons.

Know the Cheapest Places to Fly into Yellowstone

To be clear, there’s no airport right next to the park. Regional airports within an hour’s drive of the park include Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming, and Jackson Hole Airport , which sits in Grand Teton National Park in Jackson, Wyoming. Just under a two-hour drive are Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and Idaho Falls Regional Airport . It’s worth checking flight prices to all four airports on various airlines using a tool like Google Flights. If you really want to hone in on deals, Airfarewatchdog.com can alert you when prices drop.

While farther from Yellowstone, Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah , and Denver International Airport in Denver, Colorado, offer what the small airports don’t: choice. With more flights and airlines to choose from, you may find cheaper prices. It’s a five-hour drive to Yellowstone from Salt Lake City and an 8.5-hour drive from Denver . While flying into these airports eats up time you could be spending in the park, it may also save you a lot of money.

When you’re pricing your flights, be sure to price rental cars, too. Rental car prices can vary wildly, and an overpriced vehicle can erase all the savings you got for your flights. Wherever you fly into, reserve your rental car way in advance.

Be Aware that the Cheapest Gas in Yellowstone Is Outside the Park

Whether you fly or drive there, you need a car to tour Yellowstone. The park’s vastness and its lack of a public transportation system force visitors to be completely dependent on their vehicles to explore any of the park’s gems.

While there are seven gas stations in Yellowstone, the gas in the park is more expensive than outside the park. Save money by fueling up in West Yellowstone , Gardiner and Cooke City in Montana. Because the park is larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined, be strategic and scout out your fuel stops in advance. If you’re going to visit Mammoth Hot Springs, fuel up in the town of Gardiner, which is several minutes away. If you’re staying in West Yellowstone, fuel up there before venturing to Old Faithful. No matter where you explore, keep your eyes on your gas tank. Running out of gas in Yellowstone is no picnic, especially with all those grizzly bears roaming around.

Use These Hacks to Find the Best Hotel Deals in Yellowstone

If you have your heart set on staying in the park, there are some essentials you need to know. First, you’re battling with literally thousands of others to stay in the park, so to get the cheapest rates, book your rooms as early as possible. Yellowstone National Park Lodges, the company that runs the park’s hotels, releases rooms 13 months in advance, so be ready to book the instant rooms are released for your dates.

Second, seek out the more affordable properties. Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Old Faithful Inn are two of Yellowstone’s finest hotels, but both properties have cabins a stone’s throw away that are much cheaper. Instead of staying at Lake Yellowstone Hotel, stay at Lake Lodge Cabins . Pass on the Old Faithful Inn, and opt for Old Faithful Lodge Cabins . If you book a cabin with a communal bathroom, the price drops more.

Roosevelt Lodge Cabins are another affordable option with shared or private bathrooms. Like many things in life, as the price drops, amenities tend to disappear. If you book a Rough Rider cabin, you won’t find a bathroom, TV, internet or a coffee maker in your room. But you’ll have a cozy bed in the heart of the park.

For the best hotel rates, sign up for the park’s hotel newsletter as it often offers special promotions and book directly through Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

If you like to camp, the cheapest way to stay in Yellowstone is in your tent or RV at one of the park’s 12 campgrounds . All but Mammoth Campground in Gardiner requires advanced reservations. Book as early as possible for a night stay that could cost you the equivalent of three trips to Starbucks. Remember, camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds inside the park.

Stay in the Most Affordable Places Outside of Yellowstone

Lodging outside of Yellowstone is often more affordable. The farther you have to drive, the cheaper the prices. For instance, for the price of a no-frills cabin in Yellowstone, you may be able to reserve an amenity-filled hotel room outside the park. But pricing often depends on where and when you book. In Montana, West Yellowstone and Gardiner both sit right on the park’s boundary and Silver Gate/Cooke City are just minutes from the boundary. These towns have a mix of affordable lodging and restaurants, which means you can save money and access the park quickly. Thirty minutes from the West Entrance, you may find more bargains in Island Park, Idaho .

Even farther, Cody, Wyoming , is 55 miles east of the park’s East Entrance and Jackson, Wyoming is 57 miles from the park’s South Entrance. Both towns offer world-class museums and restaurants, and lodging for a variety of budgets. However, you’ll spend more time in the car and more money on gas driving to and from the park. While Cody offers affordable lodging, Jackson tends to offer higher-end prices in the summer. If you stay outside the park, choose a town that puts you closest to the attractions you want to see. For the cheapest options outside the park consider camping. There’s a variety of national forest and BLM campgrounds as well as privately run campgrounds and RV parks nearby that offer affordable ways to spend the night.

Make Reservations for Yellowstone’s Cheapest Time of Year

Yellowstone’s high season is June through August, but even September has become a popular time to visit, so finding good deals in summer means looking way in advance. You’ll find the highest hotel rates during peak season.

Almost all park roads close in the winter, leaving only Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge open, so adventurous travelers have to take a snowcoach to get to Old Faithful. While you’ll discover a snowy, uncrowded Yellowstone, it’s not the cheapest season because you have limited lodging and dining options and need to arrange tours into the heart of the park.

Hotel rates fall most during spring and fall in and out of the park. The park roads open in late April, and between then and early June, you’ll find some hotel rates will be between 30-50% lower than high season. The same goes for the fall season from late September to late October before park roads close for the season.

If you have flexibility with your dates, find the best deals by visiting Yellowstone National Park Lodges’ website. Select the flexible calendar option to see the lowest rates for any Yellowstone hotel on any day.

Save Money in Yellowstone by Preparing Your Own Food

Yellowstone has a variety of eateries from delis to sit-down service. While they vary in price, eating every meal in the park will empty your wallet quickly. Even Yellowstone’s convenience stores are expensive and lack a large selection of food.

For the really budget conscious, pack dishes, a camp stove, pans and a picnic blanket before you leave home. Preparing your own meals at Yellowstone’s designated picnic areas will save you a ton of money. You’ll save even more by buying your food at a grocery store outside of the park. If you’re coming from the south, Jackson has both a large Albertson’s and a Smith’s grocery store. Heading west toward the park, Cody, has an Albertson’s and a Walmart Supercenter. Heading east into the park, West Yellowstone is home to Food Roundup Supermarket and Market Place.

Whether you prepare all your meals or just some, scout out the park’s designated picnic areas to plan where to dine. Each picnic area has tables and vaulted toilets.

Dine at Yellowstone’s Budget Friendly Restaurants

If you’re an avid restaurant-goer, consider dining outside the park for lower prices and more variety . Or check out Yellowstone’s dining establishments to see what might fit your budget. Similar to lodging, there are less expensive grab-and-go options alongside pricier sit-down locales. For instance, Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli offers counter service with deli style items whereas Old Faithful Inn Dining Room requires dinner reservations and offers a pricier experience with waitstaff.

The silver lining of preparing some of your own meals is you may free up some money to splurge on a special meal like dinner at Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Hall where large windows showcase stunning views of Yellowstone Lake. There’s also the Old West Dinner Cookout where you ride in a covered wagon to a cookout replete with steaks, cornbread muffins, coleslaw and cowboys singing by the campfire.

Cut Costs in Yellowstone by Buying an All-Parks Pass

Everyone has to pay a fee at the park’s entrance station. Yellowstone park passes are good for seven days and cost $35. But if you plan on visiting other federal recreation sites within the year, buy the America the Beautiful Pass. It costs $80 but gives you access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for 12 months. It’s especially handy if you’re headed to Grand Teton National Park or Glacier National Park right after Yellowstone.

While planning a budget-friendly Yellowstone vacation requires some effort, you’ll find it was all worth it as you watch a wolf loping through the Lamar Valley, bison grazing along the road to Tower Fall and the iconic Old Faithful shooting up toward the clear blue sky.

Popular on Yellowstone National Park

Get a free Yellowstone trip planner with inspiring itineraries and essential information.

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The Ultimate Guide to Yellowstone National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

41 Published Articles 3357 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

How to get to yellowstone national park, getting around yellowstone national park, yellowstone national park map, what to see and do in yellowstone national park, best times to visit yellowstone national park, where to stay in yellowstone national park, where to eat in yellowstone national park, yellowstone national park facts, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Journey back in time when visiting Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world. This massive park stretches over 2 million acres of land through 3 different U.S. states and brings over 4 million visitors each year.

Yellowstone is home to never-ending prairies, majestic mountain ranges, and a plethora of wildlife. This incredible park also has a host of rivers, lakes, and forests and amazing geothermal features such as Old Faithful, the park’s most famous geyser.

Experience the untouched natural beauty and discover the grandeur of Yellowstone National Park.

Where Is Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park is located in the northwest region of the U.S. It is such a large area that it is actually found in 3 U.S. states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. There are 5 entrances to the park, which is why planning is of extreme importance, so you can know which entrance to utilize so you don’t waste time getting to the sights on your itinerary.

Nearest Airports to Yellowstone National Park

The fastest way to get to the park is by plane, and Yellowstone National Park has an airport near every entrance.

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, near Bozeman, Montana, is the most convenient and closest way to get to the North or West Entrance to the park. This airport is lovingly nicknamed “The Gateway to Yellowstone” and is a popular airport for adventurers.

Bozeman is the only airport that provides year-round service for these entrances, and it also provides nonstop flights to over 20 big cities in the U.S. Choosing flights to and from Bozeman ensures that travelers make the most of their vacation and that they use their travel time in the best way possible.

Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA)

Idaho Falls Regional Airport is another option when planning your trip. This airport is 2.5 hours from the West Entrance of the park. Travelers like this option because of its close proximity to Yellowstone and other national parks. This airport is served by 6 well-known airlines that offer nonstop flights to 13 destinations in the U.S.

Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)

Jackson Hole Airport is the final airport option for traveling to Yellowstone National Park. This airport is around 1 hour away from the South Entrance to the park. Jackson Hole is serviced year-round by Alaska, American, Delta, and United.

Yellowstone Airport (WYS)

Yellowstone Airport is a smaller airport located near the park’s West Entrance. This option is just 10 minutes from the park. The commercial carriers for Yellowstone Airport are Delta and United. The airport provides services during the months of May through October.

Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD)

Yellowstone Regional Airport is located less than an hour from the park near Cody, Wyoming , which is a fun town to visit en route to the park for its famous Buffalo Bill Village . United Express serves Yellowstone Regional Airport year-round and offers flights to and from Denver (DEN).

For those who want the true road trip experience, driving is always an option to get to Yellowstone. Many families will load up their cars, vans, or RVs and set out for an unforgettable journey to make memories of a lifetime along the way.

This park is expansive and has 5 entrances that offer very different experiences, so preplanning is the most important part of this road trip. Another important factor is researching which entrances will permit vehicle access at the time of year you are traveling . Some entrances are closed throughout the year, so in order to save time, checking the entrance information in advance is a must. Once you have decided which entrance you want to utilize, you will be ready to begin.

The most popular entrance to Yellowstone National Park is the West Entrance which takes you through the quaint town of West Yellowstone. This entrance brings you to Geyser Country, home of the infamous Old Faithful.

The West Entrance also gives immediate access to some of the most remarkable geothermal features in the park, including over 500 geysers, hot springs, and mud pots.

The North Entrance was originally designed to be the main entrance to the park. Guests can access Mammoth Hot Springs and the Boiling River at this entrance.

Lamar Valley is the perfect place to view the diverse wildlife found in the park. This area is easily accessed from the Northeast Entrance .

The East Entrance is home to the largest mountain lake, Yellowstone Lake. A little further is Buffalo Bill Dam and Sylvan Pass.

The easiest entrance to Yellowstone is the South Entrance . This entrance is where Lower Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, and the Great Fountain Geyser can be found.

For those wanting to get to Yellowstone National Park, the closest Amtrak station to the park is in Salt Lake City, Utah . From there, you can rent a car or RV to get to the park.

The best option for exploring Yellowstone is by car. The park consists of 310 miles of paved roads, which makes exploring easy. There are also several companies that offer bus tours. These tours take off from one of the many visitor areas.

Cycling enthusiasts also ride their bikes throughout the parks. If you prefer to cycle through Yellowstone, it is important to note that there are no bike lanes or safe shoulders. You will be sharing the road with those driving vehicles as well as wildlife. While this would be an exciting way to experience Yellowstone, it could be dangerous at times.

The main road in Yellowstone is called the Grand Loop. It is a long drive to try and complete in 1 day, as it is 142 miles around the park in a figure 8 shape. This loop connects adventurers to all the must-see attractions, such as Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, and Fountain Pots.

When traveling through the park, don’t forget to take your hiking boots with you. There are many hiking trails throughout the park that offer incredible views of the landscape and wildlife.

In the snowy parts of the park, snowmobiles, snowcoaches, and skiing are available as exciting ways to explore the park.

Hot Tip: Whether you travel by car or bus tour through the park, it’s important to have your list of must-see attractions planned in advance so that you don’t miss a thing.

The National Park Service offers free printable maps of the park, which are also available in braille, audio description, and large print.

Yellowstone National Park, perfectly nicknamed “Wonderland,” is filled with countless sights to behold. From incredible geysers to scenic views to amazing wildlife, there is something for everyone to discover when visiting this majestic park.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Yellowstone’s very own Grand Canyon is a sight to behold. This expansive canyon is about 20 miles long and 800 to 1,200 feet deep. The Yellowstone River flows into this canyon and cascades over Lower Yellowstone Falls .

With colorful canyon walls, rushing waterfalls, interesting wildlife, and incredible hiking trails, this is definitely a stop you want to make while exploring Yellowstone National Park.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring is the U.S. and Yellowstone’s largest hot spring and is located between the Upper and Lower Geyser Basins. This geothermal attraction is famous for its rainbow colors.

There are walking trails and various vantage points where guests can take photos and observe the natural beauty of the spring, but a favorite viewpoint comes from the boardwalk close to the spring.

Hayden Valley

This valley is located in the center of Yellowstone and offers incredible views of wildlife found in the park. Haden Valley is home to elk, grizzly bears, and herds of bison. You can also see lots of waterfowl near the Yellowstone River, including Canadian geese, pelicans, and ducks.

Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is one of the best places to see wildlife in Yellowstone. Visitors often overlook this location due to its remoteness, but it is one that should make it to your must-see list for its incredible landscapes and wildlife.

This is a place where animals such as deer, pronghorn, elk, gray wolves, grizzly bears, and bison freely roam. The perfect time to see this incredible array of wildlife is at dawn or dusk.

Mammoth Hot Springs

This must-see feature is very different from the other geothermal areas in Yellowstone. In this area, water flows through limestone instead of volcanic rock. This limestone is from an ancient sea that used to cover the park.

This limestone is carried out and deposited as white travertine, leaving exquisite patterns and designs. Natural staircases have been formed this way, as well as cascades.

The Mammoth Hot Springs region is made up of 2 parts: the Mammoth Lower Terraces and Mammoth Upper Terraces. These 2 areas are connected by stairs and boardwalks and provide guests with stunning views of the natural land features and hot springs. This attraction is sure to take your breath away.

Mount Washburn

Mount Washburn has an elevation of 10,219 feet and is a very well-known mountain peak in Yellowstone. This peak became popular as an early attraction in the park’s history because of the stunning views that can be taken in from the top. There are now hiking trails where adventurers can explore Yellowstone’s beauty from an exhilarating vantage point.

Old Faithful

The most famous attraction in Yellowstone is Old Faithful . This geyser is the largest, regularly erupting geyser in the park. Visitors love to watch the breathtaking eruptions from the viewing area or on the boardwalk surrounding the geyser.

If you’d like to see the eruption from a different vantage point, there’s an observation point where you can see this remarkable site from an elevated distance.

For a more relaxed Old Faithful experience, guests can view the spectacular sight while sipping a drink on the viewing deck at the Old Faithful Inn. Eruptions occur every 60 to 110 minutes and last up to 5 minutes long.

Old Faithful Inn

While Old Faithful Inn isn’t a natural attraction found in Yellowstone, it is one of the top attractions in the park. This national historic landmark was built in 1903 and 1904 and is one of the oldest lodges in the park. The inn is considered the largest log structure in the world and has an impressive interior as well as exterior.

Many people decide to stay at Old Faithful Inn for their vacation, but you don’t have to be a guest to visit. There are organized tours of the lodge that are free of charge and that are offered several times a day.

Tower Fall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park. This stunning waterfall is located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone and plunges an incredible 132 feet. Not only is there the breathtaking waterfall to take in, but massive, unusual rock columns are there to see. These impressive columns were created centuries ago by a lava flow that cracked during the cooling process.

Upper Geyser Basin

The Upper Geyser Basin is found right in the heart of Yellowstone and is comprised of different areas for adventurers to explore. Some of these areas include the Old Faithful area, Black Sand Basin, Geyser Hill, and Biscuit Basin.

The Upper Geyser Basin is home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world , which makes it the perfect location for seeing these natural phenomena in action.

West Thumb Geyser Basin

West Thumb Geyser Basin is one of the smallest geothermal areas in Yellowstone, but it is one that explorers love to visit.

This area has an incredible trail that follows the lakeshore and passes many thermal features, including Yellowstone’s deepest hydrothermal pool, Abyss Pool. The colorful geothermal pools are colorful and stunning and are fun to take pictures of.

Yellowstone Grand Loop Road

Grand Loop is the main road found in Yellowstone National Park. Driving on this road is one of the best things to do while visiting the park.

This figure 8-shaped road winds around the park, and the scenery will take your breath away. If you drive the entire road, you will pass all of the major attractions in Yellowstone, except Lamar Valley.

The road is an impressive 142 miles long and takes between 4 to 8 hours to completely drive it all. So if you want to stop and explore along Grand Loop Road, which is highly recommended, it could take 3 to 4 days to visit the attractions near the road.

Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is America’s largest high-elevation lake and is a major attraction of Yellowstone National Park. This stunning lake stretches over 20 miles long and 14 miles wide and has an incredible shore where tourists can stand in awe of its magnificence and beauty.

Swimming is not prohibited at Yellowstone Lake due to its frigid temperatures, but many adventure activities are hosted on and near the lake, such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.

While Yellowstone National Park is open year-round, there are times during the year when certain areas and entrances of the park are unable to be accessed and utilized. It is wise to plan your trip to be sure that you are able to see everything on your wish list while not having to worry about closures.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone for Fall Colors

Fall is a magnificent time in general, but experiencing autumn in Yellowstone is truly a remarkable occasion. The best time for viewing the bright fall colors in Yellowstone National Park ranges from the last week of September through the first week of October.

While this is a short window of time, if you are able to make it, you won’t regret it. Some great areas to see the vibrant colors include Lamar Valley and Mammoth Hot Springs.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone in Winter

If you are planning a winter trip to Yellowstone, the best times are from mid-December through February. While most of the roads and facilities are closed during these times, there are plenty of winter activities to be enjoyed.

Winter is a magical time to view wildlife. The wildlife tends to gather in the lower elevations, so big horn sheep, wolves, foxes, bison, elk, and coyotes are easy to spot in the valleys.

Many parts of the park are open for “ Winter Recreation Season ,” but there are also several parts of Yellowstone that can only be accessed with snow vehicles.

Hot Tip: The most popular entrance for winter touring is the West Entrance, where guests can ski, go on snowshoe trails, and take advantage of snowcoach and snowmobile tours.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone To Avoid the Crowds

November through March are ideal months for planning a trip to Yellowstone if you are seeking a less crowded experience. These months are considered the off-season, which means lighter crowds and more opportunities to explore the park at your preferred pace.

Should you visit Yellowstone during the regular season, a less crowded entrance is the East Entrance. This is the perfect entrance for visitors who want to avoid crowds as much as possible.

Now that we know the best times to avoid crowds, it may also be helpful to learn about the busiest times for visitors to the park. June through September are considered the busiest months at Yellowstone, so if you are hoping to have a less crowded vacation, you will want to avoid these months at all costs.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone for Camping

A popular time for camping at Yellowstone is in the month of September. This time is perfect since summer temperatures are still present during the days. The average daily temperatures are in the high 60s and in the high 30s at night. This time of year is also great for camping since the crowds have thinned out, which means reserving a campsite is a breeze.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone for Wildlife

The off-season is also the perfect time for experiencing wildlife. There are other months when wildlife emerges and can be viewed by tourists.

Bears come out from hibernation between March and April, many birds return from migration right before May, and elk emerge seeking a mate starting in the middle of September. If you are hoping to see elk, bison, moose, and mountain goats, they are easy to observe in the summer months, which just so happens to be the busiest season at the park.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone for Photography

It’s no secret that we love a good photo op these days, and Yellowstone sets the scene for stunning photography . It’s true that every season provides opportunities for incredible photographs, but the months of April, May, September, and October are truly the most spectacular times for capturing the beauty of Yellowstone.

These seasons are typically less crowded and the scenery is perfect with less snow and lots of lush plant life. Most of the areas in the park are open during these months, including lodging and campsites, which gives photographers a perfect opportunity to capture sunsets and sunrises.

Summertime is another great time for photographers to capture Yellowstone. The park is filled with lively wildlife, beautiful foliage, and lots of daylight hours for shooting. The downfall of the summer months is that the park is crowded, which can make capturing the perfect shot difficult.

Winter is another great season for photographers. The snowy landscapes, in contrast with the hydrothermal attractions, create stunning photo opportunities as long as the photographer is ready to brave the wind, snow, and cold temperatures.

Hot Tip: Check out our guide to the best travel cameras , including compact, DSLR, and mirrorless options.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone for the Incredible Weather

The ideal time to visit Yellowstone and experience the best weather is during the summer. The weather is typically 70 degrees during the daytime, which is perfect for hiking and exploring the park.

Other advantages of visiting Yellowstone during the summer are the extended daylight hours and lovely weather during the night. Summertime is also the driest time at Yellowstone, which means you don’t need to worry about rain ruining your exploration plans.

Whether you are camping, exploring, or lodging, summers at Yellowstone provide the best experience for your adventure vacation.

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone for Hiking and Backpacking

Summer and early fall are the ideal months for those who want to hike and backpack through the park. If you choose to hike before the summer, you may find snow-covered or closed trails.

The weather during this time is warm and filled with sunshine. The extended daylight hours also allow adventurers extra hours to explore the park. Hiking during these months can also mean that wildlife is easily viewed.

Cheapest Time To Visit Yellowstone

To plan the most affordable trip to Yellowstone, adventurers should schedule their visit during the park’s slow season, which is between mid-September to April.

Early spring is typically a cheaper time to visit the park because guests can expect lower prices on flights and lodging rates. These rates typically begin to climb by Memorial Day weekend and stay high for the remainder of the summer.

Annual Events in Yellowstone National Park

Several months during the year, the park hosts a variety of events for adventurers to experience. These events are available during the winter, summer, and fall. These events have included snowshoe walks led by park rangers, a Geysers Galore! talk, Junior Ranger Wildlife Olympics, and a Geyser Hill walk.

Hot Tip: For more tips, see our guide on the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park (by seasons and interests) .

Whether you choose to stay in the park or near the park, there are dozens of options guests can choose from when it comes to lodging. Tourists can choose from an authentic camping experience or luxury resort-style accommodations both in and around the park.

Accommodations Inside Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone has a diverse array of lodging types available inside the park. Adventurers have the choice between modern, historic hotels or rustic cabins. No matter your lodging preference, you can rest assured that Yellowstone National Park has the perfect accommodations for your vacation right in the park.

The Old Faithful Inn is the world’s largest log structure and is the most requested lodging location for visitors to the park. The inn has a stunning view of the magnificent Old Faithful geyser and has a variety of unique amenities to help guests have an experience of a lifetime.

Old Faithful Inn has over 300 guest rooms, a restaurant and lounge, and historic charm that creates a unique ambiance throughout the property.

Canyon Lodge & Cabins

Canyon Lodge & Cabins is a beautiful facility that has the most accommodations available in Yellowstone. There are over 500 rooms and cabins for guests to choose from. This lodging option is located on the east side of Yellowstone and is near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins

Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins is a stunning historic landmark that is the oldest operating hotel in Yellowstone. The hotel was restored to its Colonial Revival heritage in 2014 with profound interior renovations.

The hotel was declared a National Historic Landmark in 2015 and offers guests remarkable hotel accommodations or frontier cabins, a dining room, and a bar. Visitors enjoy taking in the view of Yellowstone Lake from the hotel.

Explorer Cabins

The Explorer Cabins are located in the heart of West Yellowstone in a cluster of 5 camp settings. There are 50 cabins in total , and this lodging option provides visitors with a unique rustic experience with convenient amenities such as housekeeping, Wi-Fi, luxury linens, and a kitchenette. The Explorer Cabins make the perfect choice for family vacations or a couple’s getaway.

Campgrounds and Campsites

For those wanting to experience the great outdoors, camping is an excellent choice. The park has 12 campgrounds that feature over 2,000 campsites. These campsites are typically filled in a first-come, first-served manner. Many campsites can be reserved in advance.

Accommodations Outside Yellowstone National Park

There are 13 gateway towns located near each entrance of the park. These towns offer adventurers lodging, dining, and a variety of activities while visiting Yellowstone National Park.

Each town offers unique experiences for tourists to enjoy during their vacation. Whether you are searching for a small, quiet location or a lively, exciting destination, these gateway towns have something to offer everyone.

Big Sky is a mountain village located in the heights of Madison Mountain Range. This town has luxury lodging options, campgrounds, restaurants, and shopping centers. Big Sky is about an hour from the West Entrance to Yellowstone and is the dream destination for travelers to get the best of both worlds: adventure and relaxation.

Bozeman is a quaint town near the North or West Entrance to Yellowstone. This town is a college town that has plenty to offer visitors. Bozeman has many restaurants, plenty of places for lodging, and tourist centers to help with planning your trip.

This town is also a place with a busy community calendar. Travelers can enjoy theater productions, live music, farmer’s markets, and art walks. There are also many opportunities to spend time in nature with amazing fly fishing rivers, hiking trails, and skiing available in the town.

Situated right outside the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Cooke City it is a perfect destination for travelers who seek a laid-back vacation with fewer crowds. This gateway town is known for being the quietest of them all.

The town offers visitors dozens of motels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and several restaurants and guide services. This location is perfect for those who want to experience the great outdoors with opportunities for fly fishing, camping, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

Gardiner is located right outside the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Gardiner is Yellowstone’s only year-round entrance for vehicles, which makes it a popular destination for visitors during the winter.

Gardiner has a host of motels and a couple of campgrounds for lodging, a small airport, several restaurants, souvenir shops, and art galleries.

Those who stay in Gardiner enjoy driving through Paradise Valley, viewing the hot springs at Chico Hot Springs , and hiking through the mountains. Gardiner makes the perfect destination for travelers planning to visit Yellowstone.

West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone is an incredibly convenient tourist town right outside the West Entrance to Yellowstone Park. West Yellowstone has everything someone could need while vacationing, including a host of souvenir shops, a Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center , an IMAX theater, a historic center, and a variety of restaurants and lodging options.

Cody is located on the far east side of the park and can be accessed easily from the East Entrance. This town is a famous western landmark and has an abundance of history and appeal to visitors. The town was made famous by its nightly summer rodeo and has an abundance of hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.

While staying in Cody, visitors enjoy spending time at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and Buffalo Bill State Park or dining in incredible restaurants and diners in the center of the town. Cody is also an amazing place for shopping for western gear, souvenirs, and gifts.

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole is situated near Yellowstone’s South Entrance. This community is known for the best ski areas in the county. There are many things to see and do in Jackson Hole, including sleigh rides through the National Elk Refuge , fly fishing, rafting, and snowmobiling.

The town square is where tourists gather for dining and shopping opportunities that line the square. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the most esteemed of the 3 resorts found in the town. This resort offers guests skiing, hiking trails, and tram rides through the mountains.

With 9 lodges, 12 campgrounds, and hundreds of campsites found in the park, Yellowstone has several options for dining around each of these lodging options. Restaurants and cafeterias are found near the lodges, and there are several general stores throughout the park where guests can grab snacks on the go.

Top customer-rated dining experiences include Mammoth Hot Springs General Store, Old Faithful General Store – Lower, and Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room.

Mammoth Hot Springs General Store

When most people hear general store, they aren’t thinking of great food made to order, but Mammoth Hot Springs General Store  isn’t your average store. This store has typical groceries, but it also has a grill where guests can refuel their bodies with a quick, incredible meal.

Guests can take advantage of the indoor dining area or set up a picnic outdoors while enjoying their meals.

Old Faithful General Store – Lower

Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Old Faithful General Store – Lower  is another great option for guests who want to enjoy a delicious meal at a reasonable price. Burgers and milkshakes are popular with diners and can be enjoyed in the indoor dining area or the outdoor picnic area.

Adventurers especially love dining outdoors and enjoy watching the nearby wildlife graze and roam while they eat. Now that’s dinner with a view!

Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room

This dining option is built near Theodore Roosevelt’s favorite location and is a Yellowstone tribute to the Old West. This rustic log lodge has 2 stone fireplaces, a family-style restaurant, a lobby bar, and a front porch for relaxing and taking in the scenery.

Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Offering excellent views and reasonable pricing, guests enjoy this casual dining experience and often come back for several during their stay.

1. Yellowstone Is an Active Super Volcano

Beneath Yellowstone lies one of the world’s largest active volcanoes. The last lava flow was approximately 70,000 years ago. This volcano is monitored closely for seismic activity, so adventurers can freely explore the park without worry.

2. The First National Park

Yellowstone became the first national park in 1872 when President Grant signed a bill into law to protect the land of the park area. This act was the beginning of national parks and set the stage for preserving land and wildlife.

3. Home to the Most Famous Geyser on Earth

Yellowstone is home to the most famous geyser on earth, Old Faithful. While this geyser is not the biggest in the world or even in the park, it is the largest, most consistent geyser that erupts. Visitors from all over the world come to Yellowstone to see this phenomenal geyser.

4. Yellowstone Has the Third Largest Hot Spring in the World

Grand Prismatic Spring is about 90 meters wide and 50 meters deep. This spring is known for being the largest hot spring in Yellowstone and the third largest in the world.

5. Highest Lake Elevation in North America

At 7,733 feet above sea level, Yellowstone Lake is the largest high elevation lake in the entire North American continent. This massive lake is around 20 miles long and 14 miles wide with 141 miles of shoreline. While this lake is unsuitable for swimming, visitors can take boat tours, go fishing, and take in stunning views from the shore.

6. Over 500 Active Geysers in the Park

While Old Faithful is the most talked about geyser in the park, there are actually over 500 active geysers found in Yellowstone National Park.

7. Largest Concentration of Mammals in the Lower 48 States

There are at least 67 mammal species that can be found in Yellowstone National Park. These mammals include bison, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, grizzly bears, white-tailed deer, and mountain lions.

8. Earthquakes in the Park

Since Yellowstone sits on top of an active supervolcano, the park is one of the most seismically active areas in the nation. Each year, between 700 and 3,000 earthquakes occur in the park.

9. Waterfalls Galore

Yellowstone features 290 waterfalls throughout the park. Famous falls include Yellowstone River Upper and Lower Falls. These waterfalls can be viewed from a variety of hiking trails throughout the park.

10. Over 10,000 Hydrothermal Features

The geysers in Yellowstone are very well known, but there are over 10,000 hydrothermal features in the park, including mud pots, hot springs, and fumaroles. There is even a volcanic opening that releases steam and hot gases.

Yellowstone National Park has something to offer everyone, from its awe-inspiring landscapes, astonishing geothermal features, remarkable wildlife, and remarkable hiking trails.

With a little research and some wise planning, you can be prepared for an unforgettable vacation in this magnificent park. Yellowstone is a trip of a lifetime that you will want to experience again and again over the years.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?

One of the first things you need to decide when planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park is when to go.  When the best time is may vary depending on your interests, preference for weather, and tolerance for crowds. 

I’m James and I’m a national park expert. In this article, I’ll give you a quick summary of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park so you can make the right decision.

No time right now to discover the answer to “When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?”  Pin It and save it for later:  

Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links.  At no additional cost to you I earn a small commission if you make a purchase.  Read my  Disclosure  for more information. If you have any questions or have other resources you love, please comment below.

While this is my choice for the best time to go to Yellowstone National Park, the park is great throughout the year.  I have provided a detailed breakdown by season so you can easily see what to expect and then make your own choice. 

The Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park in a Nutshell

If you want to see the whole park and experience all aspects of the park (the lake, the canyon, the waterfalls, the geothermal features, and the wildlife), then you’ll want to visit between late spring and early fall. Trails are often still snow covered and/ or muddy well into spring and snow starts to fall as early as September (I was caught when they closed a mountain pass due to snow in mid-September (and my campground was on the other side of the pass!)

However, Yellowstone is one of the most visited national parks in the country and it gets very crowded in summer.

So personal favorite time to visit is very early September , right after Labor Day. Everything is still open, there’s plenty of wildlife, the summer crowds are over, and – in general – the winter weather hasn’t yet arrived. But keep an eye on the weather.

If you’re looking for a different experience, winter in Yellowstone is an amazing experiecnce. most of the park’s roads close and instead it is open to over snow travel. December – February are best for winter travel.

When to Visit Yellowstone (for different interests)

Best season to visit Yellowstone National Park

The best season to visit Yellowstone Park is early fall.

The best time to visit Yellowstone for fall colors

The best time to see fall colors in Yellowstone is the last week of September and the first week of October.

The best time to visit Yellowstone for wildlife

The best time of year to see wildlife in Yellowstone is generally spring (to see the baby animals) and fall.

• The best time of year to see bears in Yellowstone is spring.
• The best time to see wolves in Yellowstone is winter.
• The best time to see bighorn sheep in Yellowstone is also winter.
• The best time to see bison in Yellowstone is throughout the year.
• The best time to see elk in Yellowstone is fall for the rutting season.

The best time to visit Yellowstone to avoid crowds

The least crowded time to visit Yellowstone is winter, though spring and fall are much less crowded than July and August.

The cheapest time to visit Yellowstone

The cheapest time to go to Yellowstone is spring.

The best time to visit Yellowstone in summer

If you need to travel in summer, when is the best time to visit Yellowstone? June is best, if possible, as there are fewer people.

Have a great trip to Yellowstone no matter when you go!  

Do you have any thoughts on the best time to travel to Yellowstone?  I’d love to hear them.  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know.

If you are also planning to visit the Grand Tetons, read my Guide to Grand Teton National Park and get a detailed Grand Teton itinerary .

If you liked this post about the best times to visit Yellowstone, please share the love and Pin It to your National Parks board!  

About the Author  

James Ian has traveled to 82 countries and all 7 continents.  He has visited all of the main national parks in the United States, as well as many national monuments and state parks.

He has rafted through the Grand Canyon; rappelled down slot canyons near Zion and Arches; hiked among the hoodoos in Bryce and the enormous trees in Sequoia; admired the waterfalls in Yosemite and the colored hot springs in Yellowstone; seen moose in Grand Tetons and seals in the Channel Islands, and much more.

Parks Collecting is a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases .

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone (+ Tips for All Seasons)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: August 1, 2024

Thinking of traveling to Yellowstone National Park, but not sure when to go and what is the best time to visit Yellowstone ? In this guide, you can learn what to expect in each season and find our no-nonsense advice for the very best time of the year to visit Yellowstone. Find out!

Yellowstone National Park has very distinctive seasons, from extremely cold winters to pleasantly warm summers. And while each time of the year is unique and special, there are also some advantages and disadvantages of visiting Yellowstone in each season.

It’s also not a secret that Yellowstone is one of the most visited National Parks in the USA . And because the best season to visit Yellowstone is rather short, it does get very busy in the summer. This also means that it’s essential to prepare your visit to Yellowstone in advance.

In this article, you can find detailed information about what to expect when visiting Yellowstone in spring, in summer, in autumn, or in winter . What kind of weather to expect, when are the roads and accommodations open, what to see and do in each season, when to see wildlife, and what to know when visiting Yellowstone in every season.

At the bottom of the article, you can also find a short summary and our advice for the truly best time to visit Yellowstone National Park . Find out!

Yellowstone in Spring (April – May)

Spring is a transition season in Yellowstone and is probably the most unpredictable time to visit the park. As the snow melts, everything also gets extremely muddy. If you decide to visit Yellowstone in spring, you’ll have to be very open-minded and flexible.

There is also a very big difference between visiting Yellowstone in April or in May. If you come at the end of May, when the roads and the lodges are open, you will find a very different place than in mid-April, when it’s just starting to wake up after a long winter…

So if you want to visit Yellowstone without the crowds, the second half of May might be one of the best times to visit Yellowstone.

Spring Weather

Spring in Yellowstone is still very wintery and you may also expect snow. The weather is highly unpredictable, and temperatures are usually around or just above the freezing point. You can expect daytime temperatures in the 30-60 °F range (0-15 °C), and freezing cold nights.

Roads & Accommodations in Spring

It’s important to know that all Yellowstone accommodations are closed in March and in April. Yellowstone lodges and cabins start to open during the month of May, but some only open towards the end of the month. So if you are visiting Yellowstone in spring, check hotels near Yellowstone .

If you are interested in camping , Mammoth Campground is open in spring. Other campgrounds slowly start opening in early May, but some only open at the end of June.

Many roads inside the park remain closed in April . Weather dependent, West Entrance usually opens first, around mid-April. Followed by East Entrance that usually opens at the beginning of May. South Entrance usually opens around the second week of May, and the other roads – around the third week of May.

Non-motorized travel (bicycling, jogging, walking, rollerblades, etc.) is usually permitted in Yellowstone from around early April (weather permitting). You can then explore the park in between the West Entrance and Mammoth Hot Springs.

TIP: If you are visiting Yellowstone in the shoulder season, make sure to check the official website for the most up-to-date information and current road conditions.

Yellowstone Wildlife in Spring

Spring season comes together with increased wildlife activity. It’s probably one of the best times of the year to see wildlife in Yellowstone; it’s definitely the best season to see baby animals.

Bison migrate back into the park from Gardiner area. Bears emerge from their winter sleep together with the newly-born cubs…

Keep in mind that bears are also more aggressive in this period because food is scarce and they’ll want to protect their food sources from perceived competitors. All this means that you should be extra cautious on the roads, but also when bicycling, skiing, or hiking.

Yellowstone Tours in Spring

One of the best ways to explore Yellowstone in early spring is by taking an organized tour.

This popular 4 days / 3 nights tour starts running from mid-April, just as this 2 days/ 1 night tour.

The most popular option is this highly-rated day tour from Jackson that runs daily starting mid-April.

Yellowstone in Summer (June – August)

When is the very best time of the year to go to Yellowstone? Summer is by far the best time to visit Yellowstone if you want to experience everything that the park has to offer. All the park roads and facilities are open during the summer months, but some activities such as rafting or guided hiking trips only start towards the end of June.

It’s also the best time to visit Yellowstone for families with kids .

Needless to say, summer is also the busiest time of the year in Yellowstone, with the biggest number of tourists. Over 2.5 mln people visit Yellowstone in the three summer months! It’s also the most expensive time to visit Yellowstone as accommodation prices in and near the park skyrocket. More info further below!

Despite the fact that summer is the busiest season in Yellowstone, despite the crowds and higher prices, mid-June to mid-September is really the very best time of the year to visit Yellowstone National Park !

Below, you can find more information about what to expect and why it’s the best time to go to Yellowstone. Take a look!

Summer Weather

The weather in Yellowstone can get really warm in summer, especially during the day. In general, you can expect high daytime temperatures to be in the range of 68-78 °F (20 – 25°C), but it can also get as cold as 36-40 °F (2-4 °C), especially at night or at higher elevations.

While summer is the driest time of the year, you should always be prepared to get some rain. Afternoon storms and lightning are very common in summer too. Luckily, they usually pass just as quickly as they came.

Our experience: We visited Yellowstone at the end of July – beginning of August and just two days before we arrived, they had snow on top of Mt. Washburn. Somebody even posted a picture of a snowman on the internet… Whereas we had really warm days with temperatures up to 80 °F (27 °C) and it was even too warm to hike in the sun at some places…

One day, we also had a torrential downpour that arrived seemingly from nowhere, left us soaking wet in a matter of minutes, and then stopped as quickly as it started. The sun came out again and half an hour later we were completely dry again…

As you can see, Yellowstone can experience beautiful warm temperatures, but it can snow in summer too. So be prepared for everything!

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Yellowstone in Summer

Roads & Accommodations in Summer

All the roads in Yellowstone are open in June, July, and August. However, it’s also the season when any road works and repairs have to be done, so there might be some local closures and delays.

All Yellowstone lodging and campings are open in summer, but some campings only open in the second half of June.

However…

Good to know: If you are planning to visit Yellowstone in summer, you should know that accommodation inside the park gets fully booked over a year in advance . They usually open reservations for next year in May of the current year and you have to be quick!

So if you are planning to visit Yellowstone in the summer, you really have to plan ahead or be prepared to stay outside the park. And even then, you’ll have to book well in advance if you want to find the best deals at the best locations nearby. The longer you wait to book, the further away you’ll have to stay, and the more expensive it will get (because all the best price/quality options are filled-up first).

LEARN MORE: Where to Stay in Yellowstone Best Hotels & Cabins Near Yellowstone

Geothermal Features in Summer

Beautiful sunny skies and warm temperatures make for the best conditions for seeing the colorful geothermal features of Yellowstone.

The colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring, for example, are at their best on a sunny warm summer’s day. If you are lucky to see it under optimal conditions, it’s just as colorful and impressive as in the pictures. Simply incredible! However, if you come on colder days, the steam will often cover the spring, and if there is no sun, the colors will usually look dull…

LEARN MORE: Complete Guide to Grand Prismatic Spring

Wildlife in Summer

Summer is a great time to see wildlife in Yellowstone. With 67 different types of mammals and countless other species, Yellowstone is a real paradise for wildlife viewing.

However, as summer temperatures warm up, many animals move to higher elevations. There is also plenty of food and so animals can safely stay in the forests and there is no need to come closer to the roads or the people.

The easiest animal to see in Yellowstone is the bison. They are everywhere! Hundreds of bison can usually be seen next to the roads of Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley. They often disturb traffic and create long traffic jams, so always plan for bison jam delays when planning to drive through these two valleys.

You can usually see plenty of elk and deer next to the roads as well, especially early in the morning or around sunset. Bear sightings are common too and it’s wise to carry bear spray if you plan to go hiking in Yellowstone.

Summer Crowds in Yellowstone

The months between June and September are the busiest in Yellowstone, with July and August being the most popular months to travel, the Yellowstone peak season.

We also visited Yellowstone this time of the year (end of July – beginning of August). While it was busy at the main Yellowstone attractions (especially at the Old Faithful ), we found that, in general, it was quite easy to escape the crowds in Yellowstone. If you just walk further than 20-30 minutes from the car, you hardly meet anyone…

LEARN MORE: Tips for Visiting Yellowstone in July or August

What to Do in Yellowstone in Summer

Summer is the best season to see everything that Yellowstone has to offer. Hiking, swimming, rafting, sightseeing – Yellowstone is a real paradise for those who love beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.

If you are not sure how to plan your time in the park, here you can find our suggested Yellowstone itinerary for 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days .

LEARN MORE: Best Places to See and Things to Do in Yellowstone

Yellowstone Tours in Summer

There are plenty of tours visiting Yellowstone in summer. From day tours and rafting adventures to multi-day tours – you can find a wide selection of tours on GetYourGuide (our favorite website for all tour bookings worldwide) and also on Viator .

LEARN MORE: Best Yellowstone Tours

Yellowstone in the Fall (September – October)

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Yellowstone: the weather is still mild, the roads and accommodations are open (and more affordable), there are plenty of wildlife watching opportunities, and the number of people is lower too. Furthermore, the autumn season brings beautiful fall colors.

TIP: The nearby Grand Teton National Park is simply stunning in the fall!

However, autumn is also very short in Yellowstone and before you know it, winter arrives. The weather is very unpredictable too, and so if you travel to Yellowstone in the fall, be prepared for everything.

Roads & Accommodations in Autumn

Many Yellowstone facilities start to close in September already and gradually close down by the end of October. Most campgrounds close by the third week of September and many Yellowstone lodges close soon after that. If you are visiting Yellowstone in October, check out the hotels in the towns near Yellowstone .

Some roads close as early as mid-October. By the first week of November, most Yellowstone roads close for the winter season.

Autumn Weather

The weather in Yellowstone during the autumn months is very unpredictable and can vary a lot from one day to another. You can expect temperatures anywhere between 20 and 65 °F (-6 to 18 °C) – a huge difference, isn’t it! Also, as the days get shorter, it gets colder even quicker when the sun goes down.

Wildlife in Autumn

As the weather cools down, many animals return to the valleys in the fall. Autumn is, therefore, a good time to see wildlife in Yellowstone.

This is also the season of elk rutting. You can expect to hear loud bugling (a sound alternately deep and high-pitched) and see some duels as male elk try to impress females before the mating season.

It’s always fun to watch wildlife, just keep a safe distance at all times.

Activities in the Fall

Autumn is a great season for sightseeing. As long as the roads remain open, you can explore all the most beautiful places of Yellowstone, just like in summer. Autumn is also a great season for hiking and bicycling in Yellowstone. It’s also the best season to go fishing.

Yellowstone Tours in the Fall

Pretty much all the multi-day and day tours to Yellowstone that run in summer also go in September and the first week of October.

Some tours continue till mid-October and this day tour from Jackson is possible till the 1st of November. Here you can find the best tours and check availability for your travel dates.

Yellowstone in Winter (November to March)

The months between November and March are the coldest months in Yellowstone. While it can be a magical time to visit, it’s also the most challenging season to travel to Yellowstone. Here’s why.

Winter Weather

Winter in Yellowstone can be really harsh. There is lots of snow and it’s usually really cold with temperatures falling well below freezing point. Average high temperatures in Yellowstone in winter are under 32 °F (0°C), and average low temperatures in January or February are around 0 °F (-17 °C).

TIP: If you are visiting Yellowstone in winter, make sure that you are well-prepared. Good winter boots are a must, just as a warm winter parka , wool and fleece sweaters, thermal underwear , insulated winter pants (or ski pants), wool socks, waterproof winter gloves , and a warm winter hat.

READ ALSO: Best Winter Boots for Travel

Roads & Accommodations in Winter

Because of snow, only small parts of Yellowstone are accessible in winter. The North and the Northeast entrances of Yellowstone are the only entrance open to regular cars in the winter season. Most roads inside the park close around mid-October or at the beginning of November and remain closed during the entire winter.

The Northern part of Yellowstone ( Mammoth Hot Springs area ) is the best place to visit in winter if you are traveling on your own. The park headquarters at Mammoth Springs also remain open during the entire year. Mammoth Campground is also the only one that’s open year-round (although I’d think twice before camping in Yellowstone in winter).

Most Yellowstone accommodations are closed in winter. However, Yellowstone now also has a ‘ Winter Recreation Season ‘, which lasts from mid-December till the end of February . Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins and Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins are the only two accommodations inside Yellowstone that are open during that period.

Alternatively, stay in the hotels in one of the towns near Yellowstone – there are lots of great winter activities in the area, and you can visit Yellowstone for a day on a tour.

During this period, many park roads are open for over-snow travel by snowmobile or snowcoach. You can find more specific information and practical info about Yellowstone roads in winter here .

Wildlife in Yellowstone in Winter 

Winter is a great time to see wildlife in Yellowstone. Most animals migrate to lower elevations in order to find food. They can often be seen near warm geysers or hot springs.

You can expect to see lots of bison and winter is also the best time to see wolves. Bighorn sheep rut occurs during the early winter months. Elk migrate north in winter and can often be seen in big numbers in the northern part of Yellowstone and around Gardiner.

Bears hibernate this time of the year, so you won’t see any bears in winter.

Winter Activities

Winter Recreation Season is the best time for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or ice-climbing. It’s always fun to watch frozen waterfalls and geothermal features against the snowy background. Winter is also a great time to see wildlife in Yellowstone!

Yellowstone Winter Tours

If you decide to visit Yellowstone in winter, you should really consider going with one of the organized tours that have experience with visiting the park this time of the year. As already mentioned, you’ll need a snowmobile or a snowcoach in order to travel inside the park.

There are multi-day tours available that, in winter, mostly concentrate on visiting the Old Faithful and the Mammoth Springs areas and focus on bison and wolf-viewing.

There are also winter day trips from Jackson Hole and you can choose to either visit with a snowcoach or with a snowmobile . However, you can usually only book these tours closer to the winter season, so if they aren’t available now, be sure to check back a few weeks before your trip.

When is the Best Time to Visit Yellowstone – CONCLUSION

As you can see, there is no one simple answer as to when is the best time to see Yellowstone.

If you want to experience everything that the park has to offer, then the second half of June, July, August, and the beginning of September are the best months to visit Yellowstone. However, this is also the busiest and the most expensive time to travel.

The end of May and the end of September – beginning of October are quieter periods that have most of the advantages of summer travel, but a somewhat lower number of visitors. This very short period could probably be described as the best time to visit Yellowstone . The weather is good enough and pretty much everything in the park is accessible, accommodation prices are lower, and there are fewer people.

However, don’t be fooled by thinking that you’ll have the park all to yourselves. While the month of May has just about 50% of the visitor numbers compared to August, September is almost as busy as August, with just 10% fewer visitors.

Mid-December – the end of February is the best time to visit Yellowstone for those who want to experience the park in winter.

The best time to visit Yellowstone without the crowds is, of course, the low season – fall and spring. However, many roads and facilities are closed and you won’t be able to experience the best that the park has to offer.

TIP: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds and still see the best of Yellowstone, go at the end of May or end of September – beginning of October. Alternatively, simply visit the most popular attractions very early in the morning. Getting up early is really the best way to avoid the crowds in Yellowstone, and not just in the peak season!

Here is a short overview of the most popular questions in regards to when to visit Yellowstone:

The absolute best time to visit Yellowstone is in summer, from mid June to mid September. That’s when the weather is best, all the roads and facilities are open, and you can explore Yellowstone National Park to the fullest. However, this is also the busiest time.

The season when Yellowstone is fully accessible is rather short, so it’s always busy in the park. That being said, if you want to enjoy everything that Yellowstone has to offer with fewer crowds, then your best bet is to visit at the end of May, or at the end of September – the beginning of October.

You can see wildlife in Yellowstone year round. Bison are the easiest to spot and you can see them at any time of the year. Winter is the best time to see wolves. Spring (from late March – early April to May) is the best time to see bears next to the roads; in summer they tend to move to higher elevations.

Yes, you can visit Yellowstone National Park in winter, but keep in mind that most roads and facilities are closed. The best months for a winter trip to Yellowstone are from mid-December through February, when several parts of the park are open for ‘Winter Recreation Season’. But even in this season, most parts of Yellowstone can only be accessed with over-snow vehicles (so you need to book a tour).

There is always something to see in Yellowstone and the Mammoth Hot Springs area remains open year-round. That being said, November to mid-December and March-April are the least good months to visit Yellowstone. Most facilities and roads are closed and you won’t be able to see or do much.

So, this is our guide for the best time to travel to Yellowstone. Have a question or want to share your experience when visiting Yellowstone? Leave a reply below. Planning a trip? Check out our other articles below!

More information for your trip to Yellowstone:

• Overview: Yellowstone Travel Guide
• What to do: Best Things to Do in Yellowstone & Best Places to See on Yellowstone’s South Loop
• What to know: Travel Tips for Yellowstone NP
• How to plan your time: Yellowstone Itinerary for 1 to 5 Days
• Quick visit: 1 Day in Yellowstone or 2 Days in Yellowstone
• Accommodation: Where to Stay in and Near Yellowstone
• For families: Yellowstone with Kids
• What to pack: Yellowstone Packing List
• Must-see: Old Faithful Geyser & Upper Geyser Basin , Grand Prismatic Spring , as well as Yellowstone Canyon and Mammoth Hot Springs
• Fun to do: Boiling River
• Nearby: One Day in Grand Teton NP & Things to Do in Jackson Hole
• Two parks in one trip: Grand Teton – Yellowstone Itinerary

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 12th of February 2022

Thanks for all the good info… when you say get to the main attractions early, what time is early?

Monday 14th of February 2022

Hi Sharon, the earlier the better, really (7-8 am will be perfect). Most places in Yellowstone remain quiet before 9 am, and the majority of people seem to start arriving at around 10-10.30 am. For the most popular sites, it can make a huge difference if you can visit before that time. Of course, you can't be everywhere early, but try to plan to visit at least a few of the most popular places first thing in the morning. Have a great time in Yellowstone!

Thursday 3rd of September 2020

Thank you for the valuable information You provided, Jurga. I was thinking to visit the park late November (22-28) and based on what you said its might better to postpone it to next September. Do you have any advise for me.

Friday 4th of September 2020

Hi Fred, I think you are right - September is an incomparably better time to visit Yellowstone than the end of November. Most of the roads are closed in November, as are lodges and other facilities. So you won't be able to do much. Winter can be a magical time in Yellowstone, but for that, it's better to come later in the season (mid December - February). The end of November is probably one of the worst times to visit Yellowstone. So if you want to make the most of your trip, definitely reschedule it. September should be great!

Thursday 30th of January 2020

Thanks for this guide Jurga. It's so useful. I read somewhere else that April-May and September-October are the best times to travel to Yellowstone, but I'm so glad I found your blog because I would have never thought the roads are still closed in April and also in May and October. Why would anyone say that it's the best time to go then??? We are now thinking of visiting around mid September. It looks like a good time. What do you think?

Sunday 2nd of February 2020

Hi Lisa, yes mid-September is a great time to travel to Yellowstone. One of the best times in fact, because everything should be open and the crowds should be much lower already. Just book your accommodations asap - it will still be busy! More info here - where to stay in Yellowstone. As for April, it is definitely not the best time to go to Yellowstone and the beginning of May isn't ideal either. The second half of May is just ok because some places are still closed at that time of the year. September is also ok and the first week or two in October. Not so much at the end of October... Anyway, enjoy your trip!

Chance Inman

Marvelous mudpots, grandiose geysers, fearsome fumeroles, terrific travertine terraces and, of course, glorious hot springs. Yellowstone, founded in 1872 as the worlds first national park, is a wonderland of natural beauty and is home to half of Earth’s hydrothermal features.

I first visited Yellowstone a few years ago, headed out there on a whim after scoring a seasonal summer job outside the east gate. I knew very little about the place, but was exciting to add another location to my ever-growing list of national parks.

That summer, using my seasonal workplace as a “home base”, I (van) camped and explored all over the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem every single weekend, checking out a new and marvelous part of the park on every trip. The year after, I came back again as a tourist.

Visiting the world’s first national park doesn’t need to be expensive. In this article, I want to go into depth about how you can visit Yellowstone on a budget. You may have to poop in a bucket some nights, skip showers for a few days at a time, and survive off a camp stove , but it’s entirely possible to explore America’s Wonderland (the park’s old nickname) without breaking the bank.

Let’s jump on in!

What’s the cheapest time to visit?

So what’s the cheapest time to visit Yellowstone? Anytime during the off-season, which I define as: May, early June, late September, and early October.

During those times, some services (and roads, on occasion) may be closed, but the peace (and price) of the park can’t be beat. Check out the official park roads page to see what’s open.

Getting to Yellowstone (on a budget)

Getting to Yellowstone is where things start to get complicated. The simple truth is that Yellowstone is incredibly isolated.

There’s plenty of airports to fly into (namely West Yellowstone, Jackson, Cody, and Bozeman being the closest), but then you’ll need to get a car. There’s virtually no way to do Yellowstone without a vehicle unless you’re OK with hitchhiking everywhere. This means you have to rent a car, and that can REALLY add up in price.

Due to that, I’d highly recommend driving yourself if possible. From my home city of Milwaukee, it’s about a 21 hour drive. That’s quite a long distance, but the money you save on car rentals will allow you to stay even longer and stretch your budget out even more.

If you’re in a time crunch, fly, but expect to pay a lot on a rental. If you have time to kill, drive. It’s fun, and you save money both in car rental fees and lodging (more information on car camping later in the article).

Which entrances to visit?

If you’ve done any research into Yellowstone, you’ve seen that there’s five different entrances. They are all geographically different with varying levels of amenities. I have another article that goes into vastly more detail on the specific entrances but I’ll quickly sum them up below. Do note that Yellowstone is a MASSIVE park, so there’s a lot of drive time between the different gates.

West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT)

The west side is the “main” (busiest) entrance, featuring a small town called West Yellowstone. The town itself has a variety of lower budget hotels and some cheap, decent options for food.

While the town, in my opinion, is a little drab, it’s a great place to base yourself, as it’s the closest entrance to many of the major attractions such as Old Faithful and most other geyser basins.

North Entrance (Gardiner, MT)

Next up is the north entrance. The gateway town here is called Gardiner, an old railway town that quickly grew up into a basecamp for park explorers. Nowadays, it’s a quaint little town nestled between mountains, straddling the massive (and beautiful) Yellowstone River.

Accommodations and dining range from reasonable to expensive, and there’s plenty of free camping nearby (more on that later). This is a great spot to chill for a few days if you’re looking to explore the Mammoth Hot Springs area of the park.

Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT)

The northeast entrance is a little more low key, being the least trafficked side of the park. The town is Cooke City, an old mining town that never quite capitalized on the level of tourism as other gateway towns have done. It’s got a few options for lodging, some decent restaurants, and a couple gas stations. The surrounding area is very rustic and it offers easy access to Lamar Valley for wildlife watching.

Going east (the opposite way of Yellowstone) out of town leads you to the breathtaking Beartooth Highway. It’s an often overlooked scenic drive, but it’s genuinely one of the most stunning places I’ve ever been. I would highly suggest spending a day or two camping around the Beartooth Range (more details on camping later).

East Entrance (Cody, WY)

The east entrance, while quite isolated itself, is a one hour drive from the town of Cody, WY. Cody is a very large town (by Wyoming standards) that features all sorts of lodging options, some great restaurants, and a fantastic museum.

The drive from Cody to the east entrance is incredible. The highway snakes through the Wapiti Valley, following the violent Shoshone river. Theodore Roosevelt himself claimed this highway was, “the fifty most beautiful miles in America,”. I would highly recommend spending a couple days out near the east entrance.

South Entrance (Jackson, WY)

The south entrance is rather unique as it connects to Grand Teton National Park (also worth a visit). There’s virtually nothing in terms of amenities outside the south gate, but the town of Jackson is about one hour further to the south.

Jackson and the south gate fall squarely under “Grand Teton” territory as far as I’m concerned, so I won’t be touching on the south entrance much in this article.

How cheap can it actually be?

These articles that claim you can travel on a “budget” are always hit or miss since everyone’s financial situation is different. I’m not going to tell you that it’s possibly to spend $5 a day and survive here. When you’re on vacation in a tourist-heavy location, you’re going to be paying a lot for the privilege.

That being said, it can be cheap. If you camp (tent or car) every day, cook your own food using a propane stove , shower at campgrounds or in the river (use eco friendly soap ), it can be ridiculously affordable. If you treat yourself to a cheap hotel every few days and go out to eat on occasion, you’ll spend more. It all depends on your tolerance for discomfort and “roughing it”.

During my summer in Yellowstone, I camped for free every weekend ( dispersed camping in the nearby National Forests ) and made meals on my camp stove. My $1200 minivan wasn’t a five-star hotel, but it had a bed, heat, and 4wd to get way up those rustic Forest Service roads.

The only fixed, unavoidable cost is the park entrance fee. It’s $35 for a week, but it’s worth spending $80 to get the “America the Beautiful” pass that allows access into ANY national park, forest, etc. This allows you to visit the neighboring Grand Teton along with any other beautiful locations on your roadtrip back home. And, of course, you support our incredible park system.

Again, your budget is largely individual and also what you make of it. If you live far away, you’ll pay more in gas to get here. If you want a more comfortable experience, you’ll pay more for hotels. Do remember, going to Yellowstone is often a once-in-a-lifetime trip, so there’s nothing wrong with pushing your budget a bit. :)

Lodging in/around Yellowstone on a Budget

All right, let’s talk about lodging and camping, as everyone needs a place to spend the night. The most important thing to note is that your chances of getting any sort of accommodation in the park itself is incredibly slim. Hotels are usually booked nearly a year in advance and, to top it off, are extremely expensive.

Thus, you’ll have to look at camping (also usually booked in the park) and lodging in the gateway towns. In this section, I’ll break down all the lodging options, price ranges, and general availability.

As for camping, I do have an article that goes MUCH more in depth on free campsites , but I’ll list a few of my favorite free or cheap spots for each entrance gate below.

Cheap/Free Camping (Tent or Car)

In the park.

As stated prior, even campgrounds are generally booked up far in advance in the park itself. That being said, if you’re planning for a future trip, you may be able to set up a pretty decent itinerary.

Campgrounds are managed and booked by the parks concessionaire ( here’s their website ). In-park sites, even during the off-season, are usually booked at least a month out, so make sure to keep an eye on when they open up the bookings for the year. Sites range from anywhere between $25-$80 USD, offering anything from tent sites to 30′ RV pull-throughs.

Many of the campgrounds offer showers (noted below) even for non-campground guests. In 2021, however, every campground banned non-guests from using the showers. As of time of writing, I’m unsure if this will still be the case in following years.

Bridge Bay Campground

Bridge Bay Campground, located near the shore of Yellowstone Lake, offers 432 sites, flush toilets, potable water, and easy access to the beautiful alpine lakeshore.

Nearby attractions include the gorgeous Lake Yellowstone Hotel (very historic), the lake itself, a multitude of hikes, and relatively quick access to Hayden Valley for early morning wildlife viewing.

Canyon Campground

Canyon Campground, aptly named due to its proximity to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, offers 273 sites, showers and flush toilets. It’s proximity to various attractions makes it an excellent basecamp.

Canyon Village itself offers restaurants and general stores. The nearby Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is stunning. A massive river cuts through the canyon, cascading down the 108 feet tall waterfall called Upper Falls.

Canyon Campground is also close to Dunraven Pass, allowing easy access to the Tower Falls/Roosevelt area and Mt Washburn, two other iconic Yellowstone spots. (note: Dunraven Pass has been closed for two years due to construction, as of time of writing I’m not sure what the status is)

Grant Village Campground

Grant Village Campground, located on the western end of the lake, offers 430 sites with flush toilets, plenty of showers, and easy access to a bunch of geyser basins.

Explore the nearby West Thumb geyser basin, where bubbling pools meet the crystalline waves of Yellowstone Lake. A bit further south is the Continental Divide itself and some gorgeous waterfalls.

Madison Campground

Madison Campground, located near the park’s western entrance, offers 278 sites with flush toilets but no showers. Out of all campgrounds in the park itself, Madison arguably has the best location.

It’s minutes from Old Faithful, and less than a 30 minute drive to the town of West Yellowstone for any sort of shopping needs. For one of the most beautiful natural features you’ll ever see in your life, this campground is just a few minutes away from Grand Prismatic, the legendary rainbow hot spring.

Camping at the West Entrance

If all the campgrounds in the park are booked (and that is likely the case), then you have to start looking outside near the entrance gates. West Yellowstone (west entrance) doesn’t have any easily accessible free areas, as far as I know, but they do have some really cheap options.

In the town itself, there’s a couple RV campgrounds, namely the KOA and “Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park”. Both are solid options if you’re looking for an affordable place to camp in town itself.

Otherwise, the surrounded national forest is rife with cheap campgrounds. To the northwest, there are two: Rainbow Point and Lonesomehurst, both on beautiful Hebgen Lake. Being in the national forest, these are owned by the US Forest Service and are booked through a website called recreation.gov .

These campgrounds are popular, but nowhere near as busy as the park. I’ve snagged same-day reservations many times in these Forest Service campgrounds. There’s also a few more nice ones as you drive further north towards the Big Sky ski resort. Oftentimes, these Forest Service campgrounds run less than $25 a night.

Camping at the North Entrance

The north entrance is where it gets interesting. There are some cheap camping options in town such as the “Rocky Mountain RV Park”, but what makes Gardiner unique is that there’s plenty of free camping if you’re willing to rough it.

A lot of the land northeast of Gardiner is public, and some of it allows camping (this is known as “dispersed camping”, which is another very long article I’ll write eventually). There’s not really any particular spots, but a lot of it is on “Jardine Road” going up the mountains outside of town.

After a couple miles of driving down this well-maintained gravel road, you’ll start to spot vans, trucks and RVs parked in pull offs. As silly as it sounds, this is one of my best ways of finding free camping. If there’s a lot of campers parked there and it’s not an official campground, it’s very likely both free AND legal. Pull up next to them and get some sleep. As a bonus, the town is still a short drive away for bathroom breaks, snacks, etc.

My camping guide has plenty more information that couldn’t fit in here.

Camping at the East Entrance

The east entrance offers anywhere from RV campgrounds to rustic tent sites. The town of Cody itself has plenty of RV campgrounds (I’ve stayed at Ponderosa a few times) all in close proximity to grocery stores, restaurants, touristy stuff, etc.

Driving west through the incredible Wapiti Valley (again, Teddy’s “fifty most beautiful miles in America . “) brings you to many Forest Service campgrounds. These hover around $20 and are either on a first-come-first-serve basis or are bookable via the aforementioned recreation.gov .

I personally love camping outside the east entrance. It’s very quiet, affordable, and there’s very few tourists ambling around. Bonus points if you can snag a spot on the stunning Shoshone River itself.

Camping at the Northeast Entrance

The northeast entrance is the least busy, but that also means there’s plenty of opportunities to sleep in the woods. Right outside of town, there’s a few campgrounds that are, again, reserved through recreation.gov .

Keep driving east, however, and you’ll end up near the Beartooth Highway. Not only is this an unbelievably stunning drive, there’s also about a dozen campsites going all the way up the pass. Once again, they are Forest Service sites that are cheap and generally open, bookable online or on a first-come-first-serve basis.

The northeast entrance, while very isolated, is a great way to escape the crowds and enjoy the silence of nature. Again, check out my free camping guide for more info.

Camping at the South Entrance

The south entrance is a bit of a special case. As I mentioned prior, this is getting more into the territory of Grand Teton, which is an entirely separate subject. There is a large campground at Flagg Ranch, just outside the gate, but it’s usually heavily booked, even in the off-season.

Proceeding west of Flagg Ranch, down “Grassy Lake Rd” offers some free options, but it’s an incredibly rough road. 4wd, good tires, and high clearance are pretty much required.

Driving an hour south takes you to the city of Jackson, which is an upscale ski town that lacks almost any reasonably priced options.

Hotels in Gateway Towns

While I’ll always suggest roughing it, there are some affordable options in the gateway towns. I’ve never stayed at some of them, so I’m largely going off recommendations from fellow travelers and the places I’ve stopped in at (or in other words, stole their wifi). I’ll link to my specific entrance guides below (those articles go into more detail).

At the west entrance , hotels tend to trend around $160. The Gray Wolf Inn and the Hibernation Station are usually a bit cheaper and have high ratings.

At the north entrance , you’ll find a few reasonable options, such as the Park Hotel, Absaroka Lodge, and Ridgeline. These are all around $120 in the off-season.

As for the northeast entrance, you won’t find many options since there’s not much there. However, I have friends who have liked High Country Motel (usually less than $150 during peak season). Just avoid Soda Butte Lodge.

Cody, at the east entrance, is a gem for affordable lodging . Higher population and a lot of competition mean good prices for us frugal travelers. Lots of good options here: Big Bear Motel, Legacy Inn, Antlers Inn, and the Irma Hotel (built by Buffalo Bill). These all tend to hover around $100 during the off-season and are great places. Pahaska Tepee Resort, while a bit outdated, is cheap and located right outside the gate itself.

For visitors of the south entrance, again, you’d be looking at Jackson, WY. Jackson is incredibly expensive, and there’s no affordable (or available) lodging near the south gate itself.

Food & Drink

Next up, we’ll talk about the other essential: sustenance.

Yellowstone, at all the major touristy stops, has plenty of food options. However, these are generally takeout only, overpriced, poor quality, and suffer from understaffing and overcrowding. Grabbing a $12 sandwich at Old Faithful will do in a pinch, but if there’s better alternatives, it’s not worth it.

You can bring snacks, cook meals yourself on a camp stove , or fatten up in the gateway towns before exploring.

Cook or Bring Food for Yourself

My favorite way to save money while on the road is to just cook stuff for myself. My second purchase (first, the bed) for my crappy old campervan was a portable stove. I’ve always used this popular and generic two-burner stove from Coleman . Couple that with a random camp kitchen set and some spices and you’ve got yourself a mobile kitchen. Heck, I just bring pots and pans from my house… why spend extra?

Soups reheat in the camp stove nicely, as does ramen (get the fancy stuff). My girlfriend has also made oatmeal on it, although that was quite a pain to clean afterwards. Other than cooking, just grab snacks. Clif bars for energy, trail mix is always a great option, and even fresh fruits if you can eat them before they spoil.

Yellowstone has tons of picnic areas, which are small campground-like pull offs with tables, garbage cans and pit toilets. Some are tucked in the woods, some overlook epic vistas. Remember to leave no trace, pack out anything you bring in, and don’t leave any food laying around for wildlife.

Restaurants in the Gateway Towns

Besides cooking for yourself, the various gateway towns offer a nice variety of affordable food options. I have a more thorough list in my park entrances articles , but I’ll make a shortlist here of places I have personally tried.

At the west entrance, Bear Country Bakery is a great place to get breakfast foods and baked goods. Las Palmitas, a taco shop located in a bus next door, offers cheap prices and a great atmosphere, but their food is average at best. Subway, to be honest, is boring but it is a lot of calories for your dollar…

At the north entrance, I’d suggest Yellowstone Pizza Company. It wasn’t the greatest pizza on earth, but it was a lot of food for what I paid and it tasted pretty damn good. Mountain Tacos, a small taco/burrito shop on the west side of town, is also an awesome option.

The east entrance is where I’ve tried the most. Michael’s Tacos is AMAZING and won’t break the bank, great service and fantastic food. The Breadboard is a drive through breakfast joint, just located in a tiny shack with great sandwiches and reasonable prices. Finally, if you’re looking to treat yourself, The Station is an awesome crepe restaurant situated in an old gas station. Epic atmosphere and great crepes.

As for the other two entrances, there’s not much I can recommend. I haven’t tried anything at the northeast side (there’s not much there) and the south entrance, again, doesn’t have anything until you push down through Grand Teton.

Where to get water?

Finally, where the heck do you get water? I’d suggest getting a giant jug, whether that be the plastic kind (you can use it for a while) or a nice reusable one (the Stanley craze ain’t worth it ya’ll, get Hydroflask). I used mine for drinking, hand washing, cooking and cleaning pots/utensils. Every morning, I’d fill it up at a business or a hotel.

Speaking of which, there’s plenty of places with free water in and around Yellowstone. For starters, most of the hotspots in the park have typical water bottle filling stations. You’ll generally find them in the hotel lobbies or stores.

Outside the park, you’ll find water stations in rec centers (as is the case in Cody) and hotels. Otherwise, plenty of restaurants will gladly refill a bottle for you if you’re not afraid to ask.

Cheap/Free Activities in Yellowstone

So, now you know the ins and outs of actually surviving in Yellowstone, so what do you do and what to do you see?

Yellowstone is huge. I don’t feel as if I thoroughly explored it despite spending an entire summer season working there. The nice thing is, once you pay the park entrance fee, everything in the park itself is free.

Check out Thermal Features

The biggest reason most tourists visit Yellowstone are the incredible, world-famous thermal features.

First off, Old Faithful is iconic, but there’s way more to see than just the famous geyser itself. Old Faithful is situated in an area known as the Upper Geyser Basin over 100 other geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. I’d highly recommend taking a hike around the entire boardwalk. Morning Glory Pool and the Observation Overlook (a small, easy hike) are my two favorite parts of the Old Faithful area. By the way: there are four FREE historic tours of Old Faithful Inn offered daily (9:30, 11:00, 2:00, 3:30, though times sometimes change).

Second, Grand Prismatic. It’s a 300-ft wide natural hot spring that, due to the heat-loving bacteria, features a massive range of rainbow colors. It’s a quick walk from the parking lot, but you can also hike the longer overlook trail (starting at the Fairy Falls parking area) to get a birds-eye view of this incredible wonder of nature.

Other than those two, just explore! Norris geyser basin, West Thumb basin, Black Sand, Biscuit Basin and Mammoth are all incredible spots to check out as well. Make sure to check out the Canyon area as well. Yellowstone is simply a wonderland of geysers and hot springs no matter where you go!

Hike (part of) the 900 Miles of Trails

The park, thanks in part to its huge scale, features around 900 miles of official hiking trails. These range from easy jaunts through the woods to extreme mountain summits.

For waterfall enthusiasts, I’d suggest checking out my favorite Yellowstone waterfalls . Special mention to the iconic Lower & Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River.

For fellow alpine enthusiasts, I’d highly recommend either Avalanche Peak or Bunsen Peak. Both, while being incredibly steep, are not technically challenging. With enough water and patience, most hikers should be able to make it to the summits.

The park has such a wide range of hikes for all skill levels, and there’s no way I could sum it all up without making this article massive.

Enjoy the Stargazing

Yellowstone, being a national park far away from civilization, suffers from very little light population. As a result, the night sky is abound with stars and, if you squint a little, you can faintly see the Milky Way.

For the best celestial viewing, get far away from the main touristy spots (away from lights). I’m a big fan of Sylvan Pass near the east entrance. The photo below was taken close by.

Hunt for Some Wildlife

No, not that kind of hunt. Drive (or hike) around and try to find some wildlife! Yellowstone is home to about 5000 bison, around 700 bears, plenty of elk, and even some wolves.

Hayden Valley, connecting the Lake area with Canyon Village, is the go-to spot for bison. Herds wander through the grassy plains and, occasionally, across the road. There’s plenty of easily accessible pull-offs and parking lots, just don’t be surprised if you get stuck in traffic (in other words, a bison jam!).

Lamar Valley sits in the northeastern part of the park. Being a bit more isolated, it sees less tourists but just as many animals. Bison tend to roam this area, and the local wolf packs sometimes come out to hunt. If you’re (extremely) lucky, you may get to see them feasting on a fresh kill!

As for bears, you just have to get lucky. The east entrance, especially in the National Forest, has plenty. Bears are often timid and avoid roads.

Explore the Gateway Towns

If you’re looking to get a taste of more civilization, the gateway towns offer plenty to do . West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cooke City offer a lot of typical tourist shops, selling t-shirts, stickers, and hoodies. Cody has a few higher-end, “authentic” western outfitters.

Each town is rife with history. Cooke City was an old mining town while Gardiner was the original gateway to Yellowstone. West Yellowstone has a neat train museum while Cody offers the incredible Buffalo Bill Museum , which is a must-see if you have a full-day to spend inside.

Majestic Mountains to the South

Finally, also consider a visit Grand Teton National Park, a majestic mountain range just out the south entrance. It features some of the most amazing mountains on earth, plenty of free camping, a multitude of (swimmable!) lakes, and plenty of wildlife.

In the future, I’ll be writing a whole separate series of guides for the Tetons, as I worked there for a summer as well. It holds a very special place in my heart.

Final Notes

Want to live in the park for free work there.

The final thing I want to mention is that the best way to visit Yellowstone on a budget is to just work there! It’s easier than you’d expect to get a job working for the concessionaires (the companies that run services).

The work is generally thankless and the pay sucks, but you’re providing three meals a day and a (very) cheap place to live, whether that be in the national park or just outside of it.

I can’t fit all the ins and outs of seasonal park work here, so I’d suggest reading this guide to national park work that my girlfriend wrote. It’s a wealth of knowledge and has all the information you’ll ever need if you’re interested in working in a national park.

That about sums up this article. Hopefully I’ve shown you that visiting the world’s first national park doesn’t need to break the bank. If you’re willing to rough it a bit and be uncomfortable, it’s relatively affordable!

Looking for some catch-all information? Check out my main mega guide .

This is my first article on this site, but I’ve got many more planned. Guides that go more in-depth about specific parts of Yellowstone, international travel and even just my personal musings and adventures. If you want to follow along, sign up for my email list below!

Thanks for reading! :) – Chance

Cost of a Trip to Yellowstone National Park, WY, US & the Cheapest Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

The average price of a 7-day trip to Yellowstone National Park is $1,616 for a solo traveler, $2,902 for a couple, and $5,441 for a family of 4 . Yellowstone National Park hotels range from $70 to $318 per night with an average of $123. Average worldwide flight costs to Yellowstone Airport ( WYS ) are between $820 and $995 per person for economy flights and $2,573 to $3,122 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $52 to $89 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Yellowstone National Park, WY, US

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to WYS and stay in a Yellowstone National Park hotel:

• May 28th to June 17th
• August 20th to October 7th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Yellowstone National Park is usually early October .

Average Yellowstone National Park Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $1,422-$2,141 ($203-$306 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $52 to $89 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $530 to $816 for economy

Lodging : $88 to $117 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $120 to $146 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $2,316-$3,580 ($331-$511 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $104 to $178 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,060 to $1,632 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $4,632-$7,160 ($662-$1,023 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $208 to $356 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,120 to $3,264 for economy

Lodging : $176 to $234 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $180 to $204 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Yellowstone National Park

How cheap can you make a vacation to Yellowstone National Park? The cheapest trip to Yellowstone National Park is about $156 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $63.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $1,090-$1,607 ($156-$230 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $26 to $53 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $63 to $70 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or N/A to N/A per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $1,802-$2,794 ($257-$399 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $52 to $106 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $3,604-$5,588 ($515-$798 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $104 to $212 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $126 to $140 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or N/A to N/A per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Yellowstone National Park cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Yellowstone National Park Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Yellowstone National Park.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $3,175-$4,957 ($454-$708 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $94 to $178 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,569 to $1,803 for first class

Lodging : $158 to $318 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $0 to $0 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $5,402-$8,006 ($772-$1,144 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $188 to $356 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,138 to $3,606 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Yellowstone National Park for a week is $10,804-$16,012 ($1,543-$2,287 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $376 to $712 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $6,276 to $7,212 for first class

Lodging : $316 to $636 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Yellowstone National Park is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than hotels. Luxury hotels are more expensive in Yellowstone National Park due to a lack of competition. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Yellowstone National Park Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Yellowstone National Park hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

We could not find any vacation rental data nearby. This may be because the location is remote or because vacation rentals through sites like Airbnb and VRBO are not allowed in Yellowstone National Park.

Flight Costs to Yellowstone National Park

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $995 average in late July to a low of $820 in early October. Median flight price is $694. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Yellowstone National Park our data includes 118 originating airports, and 40 airlines. The area has less variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Yellowstone National Park from an airport like London Stansted ( STN ) in London (the United Kingdom) for an average $7,197 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Salt Lake City International ( SLC ) in Salt Lake City, UT (the United States) at an average of just $239.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Wednesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Yellowstone National Park, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $175, so you can easily save about 21% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Yellowstone National Park can easily cost $400 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $26 per person. Private tours can cost $792 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Yellowstone National Park Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Moran, WY, US
• West Yellowstone, MT, US
• Moose, WY, US
• Grand Teton National Park, WY, US
• Gardiner, MT, US
• North Entrance Yellowstone, MT, US
• Island Park, ID, US
• Alta, WY, US
• Teton Village, WY, US
• Driggs, ID, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Marbella, Spain
• Frankfurt, Germany
• Marseille, France

Budget Travel Tips for Yellowstone National Park

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

If you plan to make a trip to  Yellowstone National Park and want to within your travel budget, it's important to make your plans in light of the costs and conditions. To make a budget that's realistic, take a look at some major categories to consider if you're planning to visit this national treasure in northwestern Wyoming .

Admission Fees

As of May 2018, the entrance fee is $30 for a private, noncommercial vehicle; $25 for each snowmobile or motorcycle; or $15 for each visitor 16 and older entering by foot, bike, ski, or any other method. An annual pass is $60 Note that operating hours vary by season.

Nearest Commercial Airports

If you're flying and then renting a car, you can choose from several airports that are relatively convenient to Yellowstone. Cody and Jackson Hole , Wyoming, are the closest, at 78 and 101 miles away, respectively. Bozeman , Montana, is 132 miles away; Idaho Falls, Idaho, is 164 miles from the park; and Billings, Montana, is 184 miles away. Salt Lake City is the biggest city and airport that is in the area, but at 376 miles away, it makes for a very long drive to Yellowstone.

Budget Airlines to Shop

Check out budget airlines for good fares. Allegiant flies into Billings; Horizon serves Idaho Falls, Billings, and Salt Lake City; Frontier lands at Billings, Bozeman, and Jackson Hole; and Southwest serves Salt Lake City.

Nearby Cities With Budget Rooms

Many people who visit Yellowstone stay in one of the park lodges or make use of camping facilities. Conventional hotel rooms are distant and often hard-to-book during the busiest seasons. You will find lodging options just outside the park to be few in number. West Yellowstone offers a few options, as does Cody. Regardless of where you decide to stay, you should book well in advance since Yellowstone is extremely crowded during the summer, and lodging is in high demand.

Camping and Lodge Facilities

There are nine lodges and 12 campgrounds in the park. As with many popular national parks, the lodging available here fills up quickly in the summer. Many visitors make reservations a minimum of six to eight months in advance. The most popular of these lodgings is the ​Old Faithful Inn, offering more than 300 rooms, but this is not a budget alternative. You might want to splurge for a night or two at this iconic lodge that is a destination in itself.

Backcountry camping is allowed, but you must pick up a permit in person no more than 48 hours before your visit. Limits are imposed on the number of permits issued each day.

Camping in Yellowstone is possible at 12 campgrounds, where you can make reservations in the morning for your stay. But in peak season, these spaces often fill up early in the day, so start early. Note that each campground has its own annual schedule, with only Mammoth open all year.

Top Free Attractions in the Park

Old Faithful is probably the world's most famous geyser, and it attracts constant attention, with eruptions every 60 to 90 minutes. However, the world's largest concentration of geysers is found in this area, and you can explore many others.

Another breathtaking sight here is Yellowstone Canyon, the namesake of the entire park. Don't miss the view of the Lower Falls and the canyon; it's something to savor.

Parking and Ground Transportation

Yellowstone is a large park, and distances between points of interest can be great. There are bus tours you can take within the park. Note that many roads here are closed during the winter months . Make note of road schedules and construction areas when you plan your trip so you won't be caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Nearby Attractions

Many people combine a visit to Yellowstone with Grand Teton National Park , about 100 miles to the south in western Wyoming.

Grand Teton National Park: The Complete Guide

The Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

Lodging and Camping Near Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park: The Complete Guide

Weather in Yellowstone: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

15 Best Things to Do in Cody, Wyoming

Wyoming RV Parks You Must Visit

The 18 Best Things to Do in Wyoming

The Top 8 Things to Do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge: The Complete Guide

A Travel Guide for How to Visit Denver on a Budget

Visiting the Grand Canyon on a Budget

10 Top Things to Do in and Around Gillette, WY

7 Top Things to Do Near Casper, Wyoming

11 Best Things to Do in Sheridan, Wyoming

10 Best Things to Do in Casper, Wyoming

How Much Does A Trip To Yellowstone Cost? (2024)

How much does it cost to go to Yellowstone Park?

That depends on several factors: how many days in Yellowstone are you planning for? Do you want to fly and rent a car or drive to Yellowstone? Will you pay Yellowstone fees or do you already have an all access pass? Do you want to piece it together yourself or are you interested in on of the all inclusive Yellowstone vacation packages?

In this article, I break down the costs of a Yellowstone vacation and look at options from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy.

• 1 How Much Does A Trip To Yellowstone Cost?
• 2 Cost of Travel To Yellowstone National Park
• 3 How Much Does it Cost to Get Into Yellowstone Park?
• 4 How Much Does Yellowstone Cost – Lodging?
• 5 How Much Does it Cost to Camp in Yellowstone?
• 6 How Much do Hotels in Yellowstone Cost?
• 7 How Much Does a Trip To Yellowstone Cost – Food
• 8 How Much Does Yellowstone Cost – Gear
• 9 Yellowstone Family Vacation Packages
• 10 More Tips for Visiting Yellowstone

How Much Does A Trip To Yellowstone Cost?

Cost of travel to yellowstone national park.

Depending on where you are coming from, the cost of getting to Yellowstone will vary. Flights into Jackson, Wyoming; Idaho Falls, Idaho; or Bozeman, Montana will range in the hundreds of dollars. You are going to need a car to get from one of those airports to Yellowstone and to drive around Yellowstone.

While you can take a guided tour of Yellowstone, if you spend more than one day, you’ll want to be able to explore on your own.

There isn’t a shuttle system in Yellowstone like there is in Yosemite and Zion National Parks. And it’s a big park with slow speed limits.

Driving will be the cost of gas plus hotels if you need to spend the night in route. If you drive to Yellowstone, you already have your vehicle, which simplifies things.

Make planning your trip a cinch with one of my 3-day itineraries or 6-day itineraries . 

How Much Does it Cost to Get Into Yellowstone Park?

Yellowstone National Park fees are:

• Private, non-commercial vehicle: $35
• Motorcycle or snowmobile: $30
• Individual (by foot, bicycle, ski, etc.): $20/person

Note:  If you enter through the South Entrance it requires driving through Grand Teton National Park which has it’s own entrance fee (The America the Beautiful Pass gets you into all National Parks).

Both types of passes are sold at all entrance stations and online through the  Your Pass Now  website.

If you have already paid your National Park entrance fees by way of the America the Beautiful All Access Pass , you can show that to the ranger in the entrance kiosk and drive right in.

BEST DEAL: The U.S. Park Pass is $80 and can be purchased online or at any National Park entrance. It gets you into more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including all our national parks.

Yellowstone admission funds are returned to the national parks at a rate of 80%. Knowing that I am supporting parks, makes Yellowstone prices much more bearable, especially when the National Park System is chronically underfunded.

How Much Does Yellowstone Cost – Lodging?

As with everything in this guide to budgeting for a Yellowstone trip, the cost of lodging depends on where you want to stay. Hotels are, of course, more expensive than camping and a different experience. You can stay inside the park or in one of the gateway communities near the park’s entrances.

Regardless of where you want to stay, make your reservations as early as possible. Yellowstone hotels and campgrounds fill up quickly! You can find reviews and lodging recommendations in these posts and check prices and reviews:

• Best Places to Stay Near Yellowstone
• Where to Stay in Yellowstone
• Glamping Near Yellowstone
• RV Parks Near Yellowstone
• Yellowstone campground review

How Much Does it Cost to Camp in Yellowstone?

There are 12 campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park and many more in the National Forests surrounding the park. Five of the campgrounds take reservations, the others are first come, first served. Yellowstone campsites cost from $20 for a basic tent camping site to $99 for a campsite with full hook ups. That does not include tax. See what campgrounds in Yellowstone cost in the NPS chart below.

How Much do Hotels in Yellowstone Cost?

Yellowstone lodging is not inexpensive. Roughrider Cabins, the most basic of Yellowstone lodging cost $125 plus tax. That’s for one double bed and no bathroom.

On the other end of the spectrum, rooms at the Lake Yellowstone Lodge can cost $550 or more.

A suite at the Old Faithful Inn costs more than $700. Most hotel rooms in Yellowstone are between $200-$400 per night.

There are many hotels outside of Yellowstone National Park and their room rates are about the same or slightly lower. My Where to Stay in Yellowstone posts guide you through choosing the best lodging for your budget and interests.

How Much Does a Trip To Yellowstone Cost – Food

When you are wondering, “how much would a trip to Yellowstone cost?” you have to figure in food costs.

There are plenty of restaurants and grills in Yellowstone. Lunch for one person could cost as little as $10 in one of the grills or much more in one of the dining rooms. Dinners run from $15-$40 per person.

Eating outside the park in one of the gateway towns, can be less expensive. When I am helping people plan a trip to Yellowstone, I recommend grocery shopping outside the park for better prices and more variety.

You could eat every meal in a Yellowstone restaurant, but that takes a big chunk of time from your day. I recommend bringing at least lunch with you to picnic along the way.

How Much Does Yellowstone Cost – Gear

If you don’t already have all the clothing and gear you need for a national park trip, you may need to make some purchases. Consider specialized clothing, sun and rain protection, and things that make a trip outside more fun.

See my summer packing list and my winter packing list for all the necessities and find out how much Yellowstone gear costs.

Yellowstone Family Vacation Packages

How to visit Yellowstone depends on your goals and interests. For some people planning Yellowstone Park vacations, it might be easier to get an all-inclusive package. This could include transportation, lodging, food, and Yellowstone National Park tours.

National Park tour packages are definitely the easiest ways to go and the most expensive. Like all these other cost categories, the prices vary wildly depending on how long you want to go to Yellowstone, how luxurious you want your trip to be, and what time of the year you travel.

This Yellowstone day tour starts at about $335 per person.

A Yellowstone vacation package costs from $900/person for four nights to $5,000 or more per person. Not including tax and tips.

More Tips for Visiting Yellowstone

• Start Here! Planning a Trip to Yellowstone
• Where to Stay In and Around Yellowstone
• Best Things to Do in Yellowstone
• Yellowstone Guidebooks and Itineraries

Yellowstone is my backyard! I’ve guided, explored, and written about Yellowstone for nearly three decades. If you want to plan a Yellowstone area vacation but need suggestions and recommendations from someone who lives here, works here, and has an insider’s perspective to Yellowstone, you’ve come to the right place. Click HERE to get my newsletter!

Recent Posts

Exploring Yellowstone in Fall: A Local’s Perspective

When Is The Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park?

Best Places to Stay Near Glacier National Park 

30+ Yellowstone Summer Activities

How to Spend Christmas in Yellowstone (And Other Winter Holidays)

• Featured Posts (6)
• Guide Companies (3)
• Itineraries (3)
• Local Tips (9)
• Must See (9)
• Near Yellowstone (9)
• Road Trips (3)
• What To Pack (4)
• Best Yellowstone Activities (16)
• Family Vacation (17)
• Geysers (8)
• Greater Yellowstone Area (11)
• Hiking (21)
• Horseback Riding (6)
• Restaurants (2)
• Wildlife Viewing (11)
• Winter (13)
• Camping (2)
• Essential Lodging Info (7)
• Glamping (1)

9 Of The Best Times To Visit Yellowstone National Park

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

7 Underrated State Parks With The Best Hiking Trails

Underrated, but worth visiting: arizona's most overlooked national parks, 7 best underrated cities in europe to visit in fall 2024.

Yellowstone National Park falls on the list of the busiest national parks in the US, having millions of travelers crowding the park to witness its beautiful scenery. Located in the western part of the US, in Park County, the northwest corner of Wyoming, this national park has a lot to offer to visitors at any time of the year. It is the first national park in the world, built in 1872 , and rich in natural history, beautiful geological landscapes, as well as geothermal wonders. There is immense wildlife, waterfalls, geysers, and springs to make everyone has the most stunning safari experience. There is so much to explore in this beautiful park. Here are 9 of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park. Related: Why You Should Experience Yellowstone From An Explorer Cabin

9 Visiting Yellowstone in April

Visiting Yellowstone in April is fantastic. Along the Lamar Valley, visitors can witness births of bison as well as bears coming out of their dens. The best part about having a vacation in Yellowstone is getting the chance of wildlife viewing. The absence of many people flocking to the park is another reason to adventure at Yellowstone in April. It is the perfect time to enjoy backpacking and hiking on the park's trails. Moreover, roads within the park closed over the winter are reopened again. This gives visitors an incredible opportunity to explore other areas of the park. Madison-West Entrance Road and Norris-Canyon Road are open in the middle of the month. The drawback of exploring Yellowstone in April is few available accommodations and campgrounds since the park is still transitioning to Spring in early April. They mostly open in mid-April.

• Tip: While most of these accommodations are not open till mid-April, check the opening dates online beforehand.

8 Visiting Yellowstone in May

In May, Yellowstone Park is full of life! From blooming flowers of the wild to elk calves and newborn bison – the park is exciting to explore. New roads also open during this month, be sure to explore more trails within the park. One can spot wolves in May almost every day. For a perfect view of the park's wildlife in May, participate in the Xanterra tour, led by trained guides, knowledgeable in the many species found in the park. Go on safari drives through Hayden and Lamar Valleys. So many lodgings and campgrounds are available for accommodation. Space and something are interesting for everyone in May.

7 Visiting Yellowstone in June

With new wildflowers, elk calving in Mammoth, and Bisons having newborns in Lamar, Yellowstone has a lot to offer to travelers in June. The snow starts to melt in May, exposing more trails in the park to explore. It is the greatest opportunity for backpacking and hiking while experiencing the best of the park's scenery. Wander around the park's mountains and experience the peaks covered in snow.

6 Visit Yellowstone in July

One can explore all the trails in the park in July. The weather is good, and there is plenty of wildlife to explore. All trails are accessible for exploration, giving visitors an excellent opportunity of enjoying hiking. There are so many places to explore. The snow has melted, leaving over 100 miles of trails to explore. The park is full of beautiful spots for a picnic where visitors can have their meals while exploring the park's scenery. Tip: Get to the park early to explore most of the park’s trails. Before starting to drive through the park, have a plan of which part of the park is perfect for the day.

5 Visiting Yellowstone in August

The biggest advantage of exploring Yellowstone is the accessibility of the park's trails. At this time of the year, one can hike so many places as all the natural attractions are exposed. Bison and other wildlife species are almost everywhere. Although, there are crowds on the trails, geyser basins, and other parts of the park.

• Tip: Explore the park very early in the morning, take a break by 10:00 am, and return during the evenings, at around 5:00 pm.

4 Visiting Yellowstone in September

Join Yellowstone National Park in the Labor Day celebrations in September! Once the celebrations are over, the crowds reduce within the park, making it the ideal time to explore the beautiful scenery of the park. Wild animals, including bison, elk, and the black bear mate in September. What a perfect time to experience their sightings within the park? Autumn arrives in the park; flowers turn yellow and bushes red.

3 Yellowstone in October

The weather is chilly in October. Crowds are gone, and snow has fully melted. Visitors have a unique opportunity to view the park’s natural landscape as winter approaches. One can experience the hot springs, geysers, and natural vents throughout Yellowstone National Park without struggling to squeeze through crowds as in other months. Visitors can go hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and backpacking in October within the park.

Tip: Come with warm layers as the park’s temperatures vary widely at this time of the year. Related: How To Plan A Visit Around Yellowstone's Wildlife Mating, Migration Patterns, and More

2 Visiting Yellowstone in November

Visiting the world’s first national park in November is great. The trails in the north of Yellowstone are open and one can explore them on foot. With fewer crowds within the park, one can have the trails to themselves. Most roads in the park, however, close at the month's beginning. So, visitors have a few roads to explore within the park in November, but an unforgettable safari experience is guaranteed.

1 Visiting Yellowstone in December

December in Yellowstone is a beautiful time to enjoy winter adventure. There are fewer crowds at the geyser basins to explore . Although most park roads close, it is still a perfect time to explore the snowy mountains and take some epic pictures. There are campgrounds and lodgings available for bookings. December presents an incredible opportunity for wildlife viewing, although, it is advisable not to try and approach or feed them. Bison and other wildlife species are always somewhere on the park’s roads. Visitors should pull over or slow down until they get away from the road. NEXT: This Is What To See In Yellowstone If You Only Have One Weekend

Best Time To Visit Yellowstone National Park 2024

Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the history of the United States, is worth visiting no matter what the season. Encompassing a supervolcano known as the Yellowstone Caldera, the national park is home to one of the world’s largest collections of hydrothermal objects. Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park now attracts over four million visitors each year.

The best time to go to Yellowstone National Park depends on what you want to experience. The summer months bring good 70-degree weather and longer daylight hours. Half of the annual visits to the park also take place in these months. Summer visitors should expect crowded pedestrian streets, traffic jams, and difficulty finding accommodation.

The mid-season seasons offer respite from the crowds, making fall and spring a great time to travel to Yellowstone. Guests will want to pack warm clothes in the off-season and a raincoat for spring. The new colors of the park are worth the trip. Among the wildflowers that bloom in spring and the cool air of fall, spring and fall are beautiful seasons to travel in Yellowstone.

Winter also offers a magical time of year to visit Yellowstone. The numerous fumaroles, hot springs, and geysers in the park are true natural beauties when covered with snow. Winter temperatures and few operational facilities deter many visitors to Yellowstone during winter. Winter is one of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park and avoid the crowds.

Best Time of Year to Visit Yellowstone

Yellowstone is a unique place to visit any time of the year. Spring and fall are the best times for Yellowstone due to the fewest crowds and pleasant weather. The months of May and September, in particular, are tuned to the excellent visitor experience.

Yellowstone road closures begin in late October, and many roads remain closed until April or May. The time between these road closures and Memorial Day and Labor Day are wonderful windows to visit. Cooler temperatures and rain or snow are present in early spring and late fall.

Despite the crowds, summer is also a great time of year to visit Yellowstone. With near-perfect 70-degree daytime weather, summer also arranges many vacation schedules to make it a busy park. Getting to the park early or exploring longer trails can help you navigate Yellowstone’s growing crowds during the summer.

Best Month to Visit Yellowstone

Pairing features such as Steamboat Geyser, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Black Growler are active all year round. However, if you were to limit the best month to visit Yellowstone, it would have to be September.

Crowds fall after Yellowstone’s Labor Day, temperatures linger in the 1960s, and fall foliage adds fantastic color to the park.

All roads are typically open in Yellowstone National Park throughout September. Popular hostels such as the Old Faithful Inn and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel also accept reservations for the entire month. Crowds still exist in September, but falling temperatures and school hours drive the number of visitors down towards the end of the month.

Best Season to Visit Yellowstone

Spring (April-May): All roads in Yellowstone National Park are normally available in late May. Some major roads open in April. Rain and mud are common in the spring, but with far fewer people and complete accessibility to the park, spring is a great time to travel to Yellowstone.

Wildflowers bloom throughout the park from April onwards, and the park’s open meadows take on color in May. Bison calves are also seen in their herds in the spring and many other animals that become more active as the temperature increases. Visitors should pack for the weather, including a rain jacket and shoes that can withstand mud.

Summer (June – August): Summer brings great weather to Yellowstone and longer daylight hours. All park facilities and roads are open all summer long. Many of the cities and communities surrounding Yellowstone also have celebrated weekend events. During these three summer months, Yellowstone has over two million visitors. Resources such as accommodation and camps should be planned during the summer.

Autumn (September to October): The park’s roads remain open in September and October. Many hostels still receive visitors in November. Fall is still a popular time, but the crowds are thinning after Labor Day. Logistics such as parking and accommodation are easier to navigate in September and October.

You May Like: 10 Best Things To Do In Costa Rica: Attractions And Activities 2024

Wildlife is still active at this time of year as the animals prepare for the long winter. Yellowstone shines with fall colors from roughly the last week of September to the first week of October. Snow is possible in October, and cold temperatures can drop well below freezing all night long.

Winter (November-March): Due to low temperatures, less active nature, and snowy trails, winter is the least popular time to visit Yellowstone National Park. For those who like to avoid the crowds, this is what makes winter the best time to visit Yellowstone. Combined with fewer crowds, the picturesque beauty of the steaming geyser next to the snowdrift is enough inspiration to repeat winter visits.

The Best Weather in Yellowstone

With daytime temperatures of 70 degrees Celsius, longer daylight hours, and a pleasant sleep climate at night, summer offers Yellowstone’s best weather.

The months of July to September are also some of the driest months in Yellowstone. The night temperatures are pleasant in summer to enjoy the sunsets and starry skies.

Lots of wildlife in the park can also be seen enjoying the great weather this time of year.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park for Wildlife

A great attraction to the entire Yellowstone ecosystem is the varied amount of wildlife that supports the habitat. Wildlife sightings at Yellowstone include bison, deer, elk, and sheep. Black and brown bears also live in the park. Wolves have been dramatically reborn in Yellowstone, and winter is the best time to see these stealthy creatures.

Bison calving usually takes place in Yellowstone in mid-April. Bears are most active this time of the year after winter hibernation. Summer is a great time to observe large animals such as moose and moose. Sedentary bison herds sometimes block traffic during the season. In winter, wolves are easier to spot, especially through binoculars, thanks to the white background of the snowy landscape.

Dawn and dusk are some of the best times to view wildlife in Yellowstone National Park. It is extremely important for the safety of visitors and pets that you never feed, approach, or otherwise interact with Yellowstone’s wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park for Fall Colors

In a typical season, the best time to go to Yellowstone for the fall colors is from the last week of September to the first week of October. Variable weather conditions adjust these dates, but if you target this time in the fall, your chances of seeing fall colors are high. The park’s roads are usually open until the second week of October.

Some of the park’s best spots for fall colors are Lamar Valley and Mammoth Hot Springs. Hikers and tourists can travel the distance on hiking trails throughout the Lamar Valley to enjoy the ever-changing scenery. In the fall, guests should plan a frosty night.

You May Like: 10 Best Things To Do In South Padre Island, Texas

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park to Avoid the Crowds

Winter is the best time to go to Yellowstone National Park and avoid the crowd, I also visit Yellowstone in winters as I want peace while traveling. Snow-covered landscapes and closed roads keep winter visitors to a minimum. The park’s only road that is open all year round is from Gardiner, Montana, to the Mammoth Hot Springs. From January, other roads in the park are only open to cross-country skiers, snowshoe hikes, or stagecoach.

To enjoy the park’s full accessibility with fewer crowds, it’s best to go in spring and fall. The largest crowds flock in the weeks leading up to May Remembrance Day, and after Labor Day in September, they begin to weaken. The weather at this time of year is variable, with more rainfall in spring than in fall.

Beautiful weather and idyllic conditions mean that over two million people visit Yellowstone National Park in summer. When traveling during this peak summer season, getting to the park early can make a big difference. Visiting popular spots in the early evening can also help you avoid the daytime crowds.

How Many Days You Need to Visit Yellowstone National Park?

With the distance required to travel to Yellowstone National Park and a total land area twice the size of Rhode Island, Yellowstone can never be fully experienced in a single trip. Visitors should plan at least two days to explore Yellowstone National Park.

Not including the time to travel to the park, the two days offer plenty of time to see iconic attractions such as Old Faithful, Grand Canyon Yellowstone, and Grand Prismatic Spring. Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road, spanning 142 miles and an eight-shaped loop at the park’s heart, is too scenic to be traveled in a day.

You May Like: 11 Best Places to Visit in Colorado, USA: Top-Rated Attractions In 2024

There are many stops along the Grand Loop Road, as well as impromptu wildlife viewing opportunities. Five days is the optimal length of your vacation in Yellowstone. Five days is enough time to make many stops along the way and discover new interesting places. The five days also allows some flexibility in the schedule, taking into account the weather.

Cheapest Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

Depending on where you are going, winter and spring are usually the most affordable times to travel to Yellowstone National Park. Limited park facilities are available in winter, but the real opportunity for accommodation is in the surrounding communities. Places like Cody, Gardiner, and Jackson offer special rates for winter visitors.

The beginning of spring is also historically a cheaper time to visit Yellowstone. Roads in the park begin to open in mid-April, and all roads are open to the public ahead of Memorial Day.

Along with the thaw in the park caused by winter temperatures, park facilities and local businesses also begin to function fully. Visitors can expect increased accommodation and airfare prices early in the Memorial Day weekend and throughout the summer.

When should you not visit Yellowstone?

At these times you can avoid visiting Yellowstone National Park according to your preferences:

• During peak season (June-August): If you dislike crowds and high prices.
• In early spring (March-April): If you want predictable weather, open roads, and most facilities accessible.
• During winter (November-February): If you lack proper winter gear or experience, want access to most roads and facilities, or dislike frigid temperatures.

How long does it take to drive the loop in Yellowstone?

Yellowstone have two loops that offers different adventures! It took me about 3-3.5 hours to complete the drive on each loop, without any stops. But factor in 4-7 hours for sightseeing and soaking it all in.

Upper Loop: Stunning thermal features, Mammoth Hot Springs, and wildlife viewing. Allow 4-6 hours for exploration.

Lower Loop: Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, and Hayden Valley teeming with wildlife. Plan 5-7 hours for a leisurely drive with stops.

Which entrance is best to visit Yellowstone?

North Entrance: If you are a wildlife lover, it’s the best entrance for you to seek Mammoth Hot Springs & Lamar Valley. It is close to Bozeman airport, but farther from iconic sights like Old Faithful.

West Entrance: It is most popular choice, granting quick access to Old Faithful, geysers & Grand Prismatic Spring. Expect crowds, especially during peak season.

Northeast Entrance: Off-the-beaten-path option with stunning scenery and abundant wildlife in Lamar Valley. Closed in winter and farthest from main attractions.

East Entrance: Gateway to unique geothermal features, Fishing Bridge & Yellowstone Lake. Less crowded, but farthest from the park’s heart.

South Entrance: Perfect for combining Yellowstone with Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy scenic drives and stunning views, but factor in entrance fees for both parks and extra travel time.

Is early October a good time to visit Yellowstone National Park?

Early October paints Yellowstone in vibrant hues and chills out the crowds. You can enjoy mild days, witness fall foliage explode, and spot active wildlife gearing up for winter. Fewer visitors translate to more peace and potentially lower prices!

However, pack layers – unpredictable weather with early snow at higher elevations is possible. Some facilities and services close as the park preps for winter, so check updates beforehand. ❄️

Ultimately, if you crave a quieter, scenic Yellowstone experience, embrace the crisp October air and go explore!

Which is better Grand Tetons or Yellowstone?

Yellowstone is known for its geothermal natural wonders, but Grand Teton offers a more peaceful experience. The park itself isn’t huge, it’s only 484 square miles (compared to Yellowstone’s 3.5 thousand square miles), but the area around it is also worth exploring.

Is Yellowstone or Glacier better?

Glacier is much more rugged than Yellowstone. Hiking will demand much more physical ability and skill. The whole park is much higher than Yellowstone, so animals and plant life will be quite a bit different than what you find in Yellowstone.

Related Searches:

• Best Time To Visit Yellowstone For Wildlife
• Best Time To Visit Yellowstone To Avoid Crowds
• Best Time To Visit Yellowstone And Grand Teton
• Best Time To Visit Yellowstone For Fall Colors
• Best Time To Visit Wyoming And Montana
• Best Time To Visit Yellowstone In Winter
• Is August A Good Time To Visit Yellowstone National Park
• Best Time To Visit Yosemite

Share this:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Adventure-of-a-lifetime drive from Yellowstone to Glacier National Park

This Big Sky Country road trip includes waterfalls, ghost towns, herds of bison, and mysterious piles of rocks that make music

By Roadtrippers

Montana is home to both Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone, making it a popular destination for roadtrippers. But don’t sleep on the amazing places that can be found between the two parks, including waterfalls, ghost towns, herds of bison, campgrounds, and mysterious piles of rocks that make music. In addition, the national parks offer scenic drives, hot springs, geysers, electric blue lakes, and more. 

Here are 14 must-see stops in Big Sky Country from Yellowstone to Glacier National Park.

1. Yellowstone National Park

Kick off your adventure of a lifetime in one of the most iconic national parks in the country. The very first U.S. national park is visited by millions of people from around the world each year. Larger than the states of Delaware and Rhode Island combined, with more than a dozen world-class campgrounds and thousands of miles of hiking trails, Yellowstone has something for everyone. The park is famous for its diverse geology and animal life, and visitors can glimpse bison, moose, elk, and hundreds of species of birds and mammals with a cruise through the Lamar Valley. Don’t forget to visit Old Faithful, marvel at the Grand Prismatic, walk among bubbling mud pots, and soak in the hot springs along the Firehole River.

2. Livingston / Paradise Valley KOA Holiday

Your gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the Livingston / Paradise Valley KOA Holiday is the perfect place to call home during your stay in Montana. This award-winning KOA property backs up to over 500 feet of Yellowstone River beauty and offers the perfect mix of privacy, comfort, and access to all the incredible sights and activities nearby. Less than 10 miles from I-90, you’ll be able to easily make it to Yellowstone National Park and other attractions, while spending your nights in nature. Need a place to kick back and relax after a long day? Roast s’mores over a campfire, take a swim in the heated pool, or watch the local wildlife.

3. Palisade Falls

A quick trek up this popular and breathtaking trail offers an incredible view of the stunning Palisade Falls . Much of the 1.1-mile trail in the Hyalite Recreation Area is paved, so the hike is suitable for most people, regardless of fitness level. The views are quite popular, and the trail is close to the charming town of Bozeman, so if you want to avoid the crowds, start your adventure early. Have four-legged friends with you? You can bring them along, as long as they’re leashed.

4. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Wander through the caverns at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park to observe and experience limestone formations in one of Montana’s most popular state parks. A guided tour will give you an inside look at unique geological structures. Examine stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and helictites as you duck, waddle, bend, and slide through the cave. Kids will get to ride the famous Beaver Slide, and everyone should keep their eyes peeled for bats.

5. Ringing Rocks

Located about 20 miles east of Butte, Montana’s Ringing Rocks feature a pile of rocks that give off unique sounds when struck. It’s believed that the sounds evolve as the rocks erode, so every visit will produce a different noise. Make sure to bring a hammer or some kind of metal object to (gently) play the rocks with, as these give off the clearest sound. If you wish to drive to the Ringing Rocks, you’ll need a high-clearance vehicle, but the rocks are also accessible by a 1-mile walk.

6. Old Montana Prison 

One of five museums in the complex that includes the Auto Museum, Frontier Montana, Yesterday’s Playthings, Powell County Museum, and The Yellowstone Trail, the Old Prison Museum is a must-visit for all history buffs. The Old Montana Prison operated from 1871 until the 1970s, and the museum offers guided and self-guided tours seasonally. 

7. Garnet Ghost Town

Teleport into the past with a stop at one of Montana’s best-preserved ghost towns. Garnet was once a thriving town, filled with gold miners hoping to strike it rich. In 1898, more than 100 people called Garnet home. Today, it sits empty in a state of preserved ruin. Spend the day getting a feel for how the gold miners lived in their small, connected community. If you’re up for a little exercise, take the .75-mile walk to Warren’s Park for a picnic.

8. Missoula KOA Holiday

Don’t miss the “last best place” for western Montana camping at the modern and gorgeous Missoula KOA Holiday. Surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains and offering all the amenities you’d expect from a KOA property, the Missoula KOA Holiday is the perfect place to enjoy a heated pool, take a rental bike for a spin, or have a mini golf showdown; there’s plenty here to keep the entire group entertained. Best yet, Missoula KOA Holiday is just a quick drive to shopping, restaurants, and other fun activities for the entire family, including the Smokejumpers Museum, National Bison Range, and the ghost town of Garnet.

9. Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

Founded by Gochen Tulku Sang-ngag Rinpoche, a Tibetan master, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a spiritual site located near the town of Arlee. The spot was allegedly chosen by Gochen after he recalled a prophetic dream from his childhood, which resembled the land in Montana. At the center of the Buddhas is a 24-foot-tall figure of Yum Chenmo, The Great Mother of Transcendent Wisdom. The Buddhas are arranged in the shape of an eight-spoked Dharma wheel around Yum Chenmo. In addition to the 1,000 Buddhas, 1,000 stupas surmount the two exterior throne walls, creating the outer rim of the Dharma wheel, or Dharmachakra, designed to inspire joy, wisdom, and compassion.

10. National Bison Range

Established in 1908 to provide refuge for American bison, the National Bison Range (NBR) is home to a large herd of the majestic animals. The NBR is one of the oldest National Wildlife Refuge centers and is an incredible place to see bison, deer, and elk roam free. A herd of up to 500 roves across 18,000 acres. Stop at the visitor center for advice on the best place to spy the bison, and then make a point to cruise one or both of the two scenic drives through the range. If you wish to avoid the crowds, be sure to start your adventure early, as the NBR is a popular destination.

11. Miracle of America Museum

Home to one of the largest collections of ephemeral American history, the Miracle of America Museum is a can’t-miss for anyone interested in the quirky side of the country’s history. Founded in 1981 by Gil and Joanne Mangels, the museum is home to thousands of artifacts throughout dozens of buildings. The museum contains everything from Native American artifacts and military weapons to old-school bicycles, motorcycles, aircraft, and more; there’s plenty to keep everyone engaged and entertained. 

12. Wild Horse Island State Park 

At more than 2,000 acres, Wild Horse Island State Park is the largest island in a freshwater lake west of Minnesota. Home to bighorn sheep, mule, deer, songbirds, and a wide variety of endangered plant species, you’ll be admiring the nature around you for hours. With fishing, hiking, boating, and kayaking available, there’s plenty to delay your trip from coming to a close. 

13. West Glacier KOA Resort

Just 2.5 miles from the West Glacier KOA Resort is the entrance to the stunning Glacier National Park ; you can be up and exploring the park in less than an hour. With your choice of traditional lodging, RV campsites, and secluded tent spots, there’s an option for every kind of camper. Explore the towns of Bigfork, Whitefish, and Kalispell, which are just a short drive from the campground, or spend an afternoon at nearby Flathead Lake with its famously crystal-clear water. With gorgeous mountain views, the smell of pine blowing through the air, and incredibly helpful staff, you can’t go wrong with a few nights at the West Glacier KOA Resort.

14. Glacier National Park

There’s no better way to end your adventure than by making your final stop at the breathtaking Glacier National Park . There are so many famously-beautiful sites in the park, you could visit several times and still not see it all. Take a tour on a red, 1930s-era “jammer” bus, pick huckleberries, hike to Grinnell Lake, and boat on St. Mary Lake or Lake McDonald. Before you call it a day, be sure to take a scenic drive on Going-to-the-Sun-Road, which connects the east and west sides of the park. If you’re visiting during peak season, you may need a reservation to enter some of the most popular areas of the park, so make sure to check the national park website before planning your trip.

Take this trip

Meet the author.

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

Get the most inspiring stories from the road sent directly to your inbox.

• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

If you used to sign in with Roadpass, you should now use the same username and password to log in directly with Roadtrippers above.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

How do you want to plan your trip?

With just a few questions, our newest Premium feature, Autopilot, will plan your next adventure.

10 Cheap Places To Travel In The U.S. All Year Round

• Explore the Poconos Mountains in Pennsylvania for a cheap and adventurous vacation. Enjoy hiking, camping, canoeing, and discovering beautiful waterfalls like Dingmans Falls.
• Visit Glacier National Park in Montana for an ecological wonder, diverse wildlife, and stunning trails to hike. Consider camping for the full experience.
• Discover the artistic and cultural city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Explore museums, cultural centers, and the famous Georgia O'Keeffe Museum for a rich and cultured experience.

Traveling around the US can be one of the most rewarding things a tourist can do. This country is one of the most diverse in terms of natural wonders, different ecological biomes, cultural experiences, and local cuisine. But what should tourists who are on a budget do? Thankfully, there are plenty of places in the US and its territories that are not only cheap to go to but still offer a great vacation.

One of the best ways to save money on travel when learning how to travel for cheap is to avoid peak season. However, the truth is that, depending on the location, visitors don't even need to wait for the off-season. There are budget-friendly vacation spots that are cheap all year round , especially within the United States, with lots to see and explore.

So whether visitors are exploring national parks, lounging on a beach, or strolling around a historic city district, each of these affordable places in the US will offer an incredible vacation that is definitely well worth the low price, no matter the season. These are some of the cheapest places in the US to visit year-round.

Related: 14 Vacation Spots In The US That Won't Break The Bank

The Poconos Mountains, Pennsylvania

One of the top travel destinations in the US is the Poconos Mountains in Pennsylvania, home to adorable small towns and wooded eastern mountains with plenty to explore. Tourists can enjoy the peace of hiking, camping, and canoeing along some of the Poconos' best trails and rivers.

Something visitors should look for are the many waterfalls in this region, like Dingmans Falls, Fulmer Falls, and Deer Leap Falls. For more adventurous tourists, white-water rafting is available at Lehigh Gorge State Park.

• Budget hotel price per night: $55-111 in the town of Jim Thorpe
• Affordable activities: hiking, camping, canoeing, looking for waterfalls such as Dingmans Falls, Fulmer Falls, and Deer Leap Falls, exploring Lehigh Gorge State Park

Glacier National Park, Montana

For true ecological wonder, tourists should head to Glacier National Park, which sits on Montana's border with Canada. As one of the most diverse ecosystems left in the United States, tourists come from all over the world to see some of the region's unique wildlife. Lucky tourists may get to glimpse species like grizzly bears, wolves, or mountain goats.

Visitors can walk the Trail of the Cedars and the Highline Trail or can explore the Lake McDonald area. The park has over 700 miles of trails, so there's no shortage of paths for tourists to walk! To really get the full Glacier experience, visitors should try to camp at the park, weather permitting.

• Budget camping price per night: camping in Glacier National Park costs between $10-23 per night
• Affordable activities: hiking the Trail of the Cedars, the Highline Trail, hiking near Lake McDonald, looking for local megafauna

Related: Maroon Bells: How Long It Takes To Hike, Best Time To Go, & 8 More Things To Know

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon area offers amazing caves , unique rock formations, and stunning landscapes, earning its status as one of the United States' crown jewels of natural splendor.

The vistas of this park at the famed Mather Point are truly breathtaking. After seeing the red rock of the canyon laid out before them, tourists should head to one of the area's museums (like the Yavapai Museum of Geology) or should embark on a hike along one of the park's many trails.

• Budget camping price per night: camping here costs $10 per night per vehicle
• Affordable activities: hiking, spotting unique geological features, visiting the Yavapai Museum of Geology, stopping at Mather Point to see the vistas of the Grand Canyon

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe has a reputation for being one of the most artistic and cultured cities in the US. Tourists here can explore a vast array of museums, cultural centers, and architectural wonders in New Mexico's capital.

Whether tourists are exploring the New Mexico Museum of Art or are learning about Native cultures at the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, or even just walking around the famous Santa Fe Farmers Market, Santa Fe promises a wonderful and cultured experience. This area is also known for its famous artist, Georgia O'Keeffe, who has a museum dedicated to her work in the city.

• Budget hotel price per night: $57-150
• Affordable activities: New Mexico Museum of Art, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Santa Fe Farmers Market, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

The red stone rock formations at the Arches National Park in Moab, Utah, practically call out for the attention of tourists. The unique sandstone arches stand spectacularly against the background of the La Sal Mountains and the violet evening sky.

This park is one of the most affordable places in the US to visit as a tourist, with the nearby town of Moab being not only a cheap destination but a place known for its adventurous spirit. The town attracts mountain bikers from all over the world who wish to embark on the Slickrock Trail, which is famous for its petrified sand dunes, the last remains of a prehistoric sea bed.

• Budget hotel price per night: $56-200
• Affordable activities: Arches National Park, hiking, biking the Slickrock Trail

Puerto Rico

For anyone who is longing for budget-friendly island vacations without wanting to leave the United States, Puerto Rico is the place to go (it's a beautiful American territory in the Caribbean and generally offers an affordable US vacation year-round).

Visitors can stroll around the brightly colored streets of San Juan, exploring old churches, sandy beaches, and historic sites. If tourists want to take a trip out of the city, they can head to the tropical rainforest of El Yunque National Forest or head to the Cueva del Indio (a seaside cave near the town of Arecibo).

Puerto Rico is also known for its incredible cuisine, so visitors should head to restaurants like El Patio de Sam in San Juan , a restaurant with a great atmosphere that serves authentic Puerto Rican food.

• Budget hotel price per night: $45-200 in San Juan
• Affordable activities: exploring the colorful streets of San Juan, visiting sandy beaches, exploring El Yunque National Forest, Cueva del Indio, tasting local gastronomy

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

As the towering stream of Old Faithful rises into the sky, tourists will be glad that they chose to go to Yellowstone National Park for their vacation. Many of the key characteristics of this park, like Old Faithful, are a product of the geothermal activity beneath the ground, which results in the abundance of geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and springs found here.

Apart from the geothermal features, tourists should explore the park's subalpine forests, the massive Yellowstone Falls, and the many hiking areas in the valleys and forests. Camping is encouraged at this location, so tourists should be sure to pack their tents and sleeping bags!

• Campsite price per night: nightly fees can range from $20 to $99 depending on campsite location
• Affordable activities: see Old Faithful, visit the mud pots, visit the many hot springs here, explore the subalpine forests, see Yellowstone Falls, hike, camp

Related: Gannett Peak: 10 Incredible Things To Know About Wyoming's Highest Mountain

Lake Tahoe, California

One of the best weekend trips in California in the fall (as well as year-round) is to the famous Lake Tahoe. Although often known for its seasonal activities, like summer watersports or the autumn salmon run in nearby Taylor Creek, the country's biggest lake by water volume, excluding the Great Lakes, is beautiful and worth a trip at any time of year. And, thankfully, it isn't too expensive, either!

Visitors can explore nearby sites like Emerald Bay State Park, Sand Harbor, Eagle Falls, Van Sickle Bi-State Park, and Lower Eagle Falls. In the summertime, tourists can relax on the yellow sandy beaches, while in the winter, visitors can ski, snowboard, or ice skate.

• Budget hotel price per night: $63-200 per night
• Affordable activities: summer watersports, seeing the salmon run in Taylor Creek, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, exploring Emerald Bay State Park, Sand Harbor, Eagle Falls, Van Sickle Bi-State Park, the Lower Eagle Falls

Related: 10 Scenic Drives In California Worth Taking Before Summer's End

St. Augustine, Florida

The oldest city in the United States might just be the best place to go for great vacation deals in America year-round. Founded in 1565, this city is famous for its towering striped lighthouse, its historic cathedral, and its warm weather.

Tourists here should take time to stop at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park to see one of Florida's most important animals, the American alligator, up close. Those interested in the history of the Gilded Age should check out the Lightner Museum, which not only has plenty of art and artifacts to see but an impressive garden, as well.

• Budget hotel price per night: $46-$150
• Affordable activities: seeing the St. Augustine Lighthouse, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, the Lightner Museum

Sedona, Arizona

Widely considered to be one of the most spiritual places in the United States, tourists come from far and wide, regardless of their religious affiliation, to see the sacred rock formations found at Sedona. Slide Rock State Park and Red Rock State Park are excellent places to see the unique red rock that this region is known for.

This region also has an impressive archeological ruin: Montezuma Castle. While this has no relation to the historical Aztec figure, Montezuma, it was inhabited by the Hohokam Indigenous people from 1100-1425 CE. The city of Sedona itself has a great shopping center for tourists to visit at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

• Budget hotel price per night: $55-$163
• Affordable activities: Montezuma Castle, Slide Rock State Park, Red Rock State Park, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village

Picking any of the most affordable year-round vacation destinations in the US has never been so easy. There are so many historical sites, archeological ruins, towering rock formations, natural wonders, ancient forests, and incredible cities to explore. Tourists need not be held back by finances; with so many places to choose, there are cheap vacation spots in the US in every season.

Untold Stories of American History

Explore the lives of little-known changemakers who left their mark on the country

How the Great Depression Fueled a Grassroots Movement to Create a New State Called Absaroka

In the 1930s, disillusioned farmers and ranchers fought to carve a 49th state out of northern Wyoming, southeastern Montana and western South Dakota

Eli Wizevich

It was early 1935, and things were miserable in the United States. The soil was dry , the banks had crashed , and jobs were few and far between. Things were miserable in the proposed state of Absaroka , too. In fact, that’s how Absaroka (pronounced ab-SOR-ka) got its start in the first place.

Talk of carving out a 49th state (Alaska and Hawaii had yet to join the Union) from northern Wyoming, southeastern Montana and western South Dakota first made the front page on March 2, 1935, the same day that neighboring headlines in the Montana-based Daily Inter Lake announced a litany of bad news: “Relief Bill Deadlock Is Unbroken,” “Struggling Factions in Wage Tilt Await ‘Real’ Concessions’” and “Insurgent Forces Are on the Run in Greece.”

The world was going wrong, it seemed. Although politicians in the would-be secessionist states had begrudgingly accepted the New Deal funds that promised material improvements, this money barely made it to the sparsely populated, isolated corners of the three states.

Discontent flared in Sheridan, Wyoming, a city roughly halfway between Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore , and nearly 300 miles from Cheyenne, the state capital.

“A person living in Sheridan or any other northeastern Wyoming town must enter other states to reach his own state capital by train,” a local told the Daily Inter Lake . “For many years, this portion of the state was regarded as an orphan or stepchild.”

Feeling helpless and ignored by their state government, frustrated farmers, ranchers and other Sheridan residents coalesced around the idea of secession: leaving Wyoming and allying with nearby communities to start their own state.

The state would be called Absaroka, and Sheridan would be its capital. Supporters of the grassroots movement went about roping other disaffected citizens into their project, attracting varying levels of support in the years leading up to World War II.

In the end, however, Absaroka failed. Early commentators predicted correctly that the effort would “never get beyond the realm of conversation.”

But the view shared in 2022 by Wyoming newspaper columnist Brian Beauvais, that Absaroka might be remembered (when it’s remembered at all) as “just an outlet for jaded cowboys to blow off steam and perform cheap political theater during tough economic times,” ignores the depth of the hard times and the people who found escape and purpose, albeit misplaced, in the promises of the movement.

“[They] weren’t fooling around,” Alan Simpson , a former Wyoming senator whose relatives were involved in the Absaroka campaign, told the New York Times in 2008. “A lot of people thought it was silliness, but to them, it wasn’t.”

Absaroka and the politics of resentment

The secession plan, drafted by local citizens in town meetings and reprinted in syndicated newspapers nationwide, stated that Absaroka would be composed of approximately 27 counties across Wyoming, Montana and South Dakota. These were the ancestral homelands of the Crow people—also known by the autonym Absaroka, or “children of the long-beaked bird”—until they were forced onto reservations after the Plains Wars of the 1870s. (Effectively no thought, voice or notice was given to Indigenous people in the debates over Absaroka, which would have encompassed the Crow and Northern Cheyenne reservations in southern Montana.)

Under the Absaroka proposal, Wyoming would be practically split in half. The northern portion of the state—including Yellowstone, Devils Tower, the Bighorn Mountains, and the deep canyons and wide plains in between—had been cut off since 1869, when the transcontinental railroad clustered power, influence and money in the southern cities of Cheyenne, Laramie and Green River. As the state struggled through the Great Depression , towns with state institutions like prisons, universities and mental hospitals seemed to fare much better.

Eastern Montana faced practically the same issues. “Its interests have been pretty thoroughly dominated, in a political way, by the western counties,” reported the Picket-Journal , a newspaper based in Red Lodge, a town north of Yellowstone. “No eastern Montana man has ever occupied the office of governor of Montana, or indeed any of the other principal offices.”

South Dakota was no different. “Resentment has been smoldering in the Black Hills for years against supposed discrimination on the part of the South Dakota legislature,” Indiana’s Hammond Times explained. The Dust Bowl had dried out the agricultural eastern portion of the state. In 1935, the only consistent tax revenue came from the tourism, lumber and mining industries in the Black Hills, where Mount Rushmore, an even bigger boon, was still six years away from completion .

“Legislators from eastern counties have turned toward the Black Hills industries as sources of revenue,” the Hammond Times said. “This has fanned the resentment of Black Hills residents who have struggled for years for a decent highway system that would bring tourists from the [Midwest] to enjoy the mountain scenery, fishing and hunting.”

Resentment was nearly synonymous with Absaroka. But mobilizing resentment into a viable political campaign for secession from three states was challenging.

At the time, breaking off part of one state to form a different one was nearly unprecedented. The success stories were generally more than a century old. Maine separated from Massachusetts in 1820, and Virginia lost Kentucky and West Virginia in 1792 and 1863, respectively. Taking sections of three separate states to form a new one was completely unheard of.

In mid-March, a constitutional law expert reasoned that Absaroka would need “to gain the consent, not only of the people of the section, but of the legislatures of South Dakota, Wyoming and Montana, and of the United States Congress,” the Associated Press reported.

But none of these three states would want to lose “their choicest portions,” as Montana’s Sweet Grass News put it—land rich with aesthetic, mineral and tourist value—to a small-town separatist movement made up mainly of ranchers and miners. 

The Absaroka plan was impractical, but it gained national media coverage and forced state governments to pay greater attention to the infrastructural and political demands of their hinterlands.

“It was in 1935 that more infrastructure was added than at any time since the ‘ hell-on-wheels ’ days of the transcontinental railroad,” writes historian Phil Roberts in his Wyoming Almanac . “New schools, courthouses, city halls [and] post offices went up in towns all over Wyoming.”

By 1936, the indignation had subsided, and coverage of the movement declined with it. Absaroka, the “ dreadful name ” chosen for the proposed state, in the view of journalist Arthur Brisbane, mostly returned to its other meanings: the Crow, Montana’s Absaroka National Forest , and a ship called the Absaroka that passed through the Panama Canal en route from New York to San Francisco every few months.

Absaroka’s revival

In 1908, A.R. Swickard left his home state of Illinois to play minor league baseball in Sheridan. He worked as a contractor for his day job, unsuccessfully ran for mayor in 1927, and became a city commissioner in charge of municipal water and roads in 1931.

Although he passed through Sheridan’s world of local politics for a few years, handling contracts with the Civilian Conservation Corps and other New Deal relief programs that the 1935 Absaroka movement had helped bring to the region, Swickard only gained significant attention when, in early 1939, he circulated a petition to have Sheridan County join Montana because it had been “forgotten by Wyoming” once again.

Resentment flared back up. Early support for Swickard’s idea was “so wide and sincere,” he said , that local businessmen approached him and offered to finance a revival of the 1935 plan to create an entirely new state. The promise of Absaroka was born again, and Swickard was the one who would try to see it through.

Just like four years earlier, however, no realistic legislative path forward existed for Absaroka. News of Swickard’s proposal for a 49th state made it to Capitol Hill, where a legislator declared it “too preposterous to even consider.”

Unfazed, Swickard decided to prove that Absaroka was a state despite its lack of official approval or recognition. He appointed himself governor, set up a capital and cabinet in Sheridan, held a Miss Absaroka pageant, and printed 1,000 license plates that called Absaroka the “Playground of the Nation.” (His car had both Absaroka and Wyoming plates. Only one set wouldn’t get him pulled over.)

Swickard and his supporters took every chance to prove Absaroka’s legitimacy. That June, he passed along his regrets that “official duties of my great state” prevented his attendance at a roundtable meeting of the nation’s governors. When the nephew of the governor of California visited Big Timber, Montana, local papers made much ado about his connections in Hollywood, his offhand comment about making a movie called Absaroka , and his promise to “come back to Big Timber and run for the governorship at the first election,” though he reassured Swickard that he didn’t mean to step on the incumbent’s toes. In June, the crown prince of Norway visited the region, and Swickard claimed the occasion as Absaroka’s first official state visit.

These examples come off as humorous. The Wyoming newspapers, which referred to Absaroka’s “governor” as “his excellency,” didn’t seem to take Swickard’s secession proposal too seriously.

But the people did. “It was 90 miles of dirt road to the county seat,” Helen Graham, who grew up in the Black Hills in the 1930s, told the New York Times in 2008. “There was just nothing there. What Swickard did was exciting.”

The state government, now making national headlines for neglecting a large swath of its own territory, was willing to negotiate.

Eventually, Swickard met with Nels H. Smith , the governor of “our sister state to the south,” as he called Wyoming. “We Absarokans are a peace-loving lot,” he assured Smith, “and while we think that we really need the state of Absaroka, we are not inclined to revolution.”

According to a 1941 Works Projects Administration book called Wyoming: A Guide to Its History, Highways and People , “The ensuing publicity was generally regarded as bad for the state government, and most claims were adjusted to the satisfaction of the Absarokians.”

Absaroka’s legacies

For supporters of the movement, attention from the state was tantamount to statehood, and, in the tense two years before the U.S. entered World War II in December 1941, the Absaroka dream all but ended.

Swickard kept his post as a city commissioner of Sheridan, and he ran for governor of Wyoming in 1942. He couldn’t create his own state, so he pledged to “help the common man by taking over the governorship.” If elected, he declared, “I will take the oath of office in overalls and will keep them on until the great state of Wyoming is put back on the map and something is done for the common people.”

Swickard dropped out of the race after a month and a half, endorsing the incumbent governor, Smith, who had given Absaroka concessions several years prior. He still clung onto his “overalls” populism. “I am going to get right in and help to re-elect you as governor of this state,” Swickard said , “and I am going to wear my overalls while I am doing it.”

But scandals dogged the failed gubernatorial candidate. He didn’t even make it to Election Day. In September, a Sheridan civic group called on Swickard to resign his city post for “neglect of duty, financial irresponsibility and unbecoming conduct,” including frequent trips out of state.

A few months earlier, state officials had scolded Swickard for profiling and accosting Frank Ikuno, a Wyoming-born Japanese American radio engineer who had been assigned to a government project in Sheridan.

Swickard “acted on his own initiative” and called the governor’s office “to protest against sending a man of Japanese ancestry into Sheridan on such a mission” so soon after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Montana’s Great Falls Leader reported.

State officials could only sing Ikuno’s praises for his years of expert service and express their regret over the incident.

By mid-October 1942, Swickard had handed his resignation to the mayor and “left Sheridan for southern Arizona to enter government construction work,” the Casper Star-Tribune reported.

Little else was heard of the disgraced governor of Absaroka, at least in Wyoming. Down in Arizona, he made local news now and then. After some petty thieves took his carpentry tools at a worksite in March 1945, for instance, Swickard complained that he was “fighting the same kind of enemy” as his wife and son, both of whom were serving in the American armed forces in the recently liberated Philippines.

Swickard died of a stroke in Arizona in 1947. The Montana Billings Gazette remembered the 67-year-old as “a colorful character in Sheridan politics.” Still, he’d never broken out of the minor leagues, either in baseball or life.

Absaroka lived on only in scraps of information and memory. In 1977, a commemorative “Absaroka dollar” coin sold for 25 cents at a Denver curiosity shop, and several residents of Decker, Montana, made the Gazette by trying to revive the Absaroka proposal.

One proponent first put the odds of secession at 1 in 500. After collecting 50 signatures on a petition, he improved the odds to one in seven or eight. “I think we’ll at least get it to Congress,” the Decker man said .

Marie Sanchez, a chief judge on the Northern Cheyenne reservation, which would have been within the bounds of the new Absaroka, disagreed. “I can’t see their reasoning—in fact, it’s a very elementary mentality,” she said. “I guess I don’t have to talk about 200 years of infringements on [Indigenous] rights.”

Ultimately, the Absaroka revival went nowhere.

“The Absaroka dream has no better chance of becoming reality today than it did decades ago,” a Gazette columnist wrote in 1984. “But the proposal still appeals to many ‘orphans’”—all those who feel left behind.

“The Absaroka movement fell along the wayside,” wrote Craig Johnson , author of the Walt Longmire mystery books, which are set in a fictional Absaroka County, Wyoming, in a 2014 essay for Cowboys & Indians magazine. “But the allure of escape still permeates the region today.”

Out in the Black Hills, on long plains and gray peaks, and in all the small towns that harbor the ancestral memory of secession, Absaroka is still just a state of mind.

Get the latest History stories in your inbox?

Click to visit our Privacy Statement .

Eli Wizevich | | READ MORE

Eli Wizevich is a reporting intern for Smithsonian . He studied history at the University of Chicago and previously wrote for the El Paso Times .