Optimal times to visit Wyoming for powwows, powder, and Yellowstone adventures

For many, summer is the peak season in Wyoming, as the mountains and lakes invite exploration, hiking paths are clear, and campgrounds fill the air with the aroma of roasted s'mores. This season also showcases the state’s vibrant frontier and Indigenous culture through powwows, mountain man gatherings, and staged shootouts, creating an ideal family getaway.

To sidestep the crowds at popular spots like Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, consider visiting during the quieter spring or fall months, especially if you can navigate Yellowstone’s complex schedule. Winter transforms Wyoming into a picturesque wonderland, particularly in Yellowstone, which is enchanting under a snowy blanket, while Jackson Hole offers some of the best skiing in the country.

Whether your plans include epic hiking, camping, or enjoying the highlights of Yellowstone and Grand Teton without the throngs, here are the ideal months for your visit.

The peak season (June–August) is the prime time for hiking, rodeos, and unforgettable family camping adventures.

Summer is undoubtedly the most sought-after season to explore Wyoming, with visitor numbers to national parks, temperatures, and accommodation rates all reaching their peak. From July to September, it's the prime time for snow-free hiking and backpacking, alongside exciting lowland water activities, cultural festivals, and unforgettable road trips. Just don’t forget your mosquito repellent!

If you're planning a summer stay in Yellowstone or Grand Teton, it's wise to reserve your lodging well in advance; however, 'peak season' varies elsewhere. Even in July, you can find large portions of this often-overlooked state to enjoy all to yourself.

The shoulder seasons (April–May & September–October) are ideal for avoiding the crowds at Yellowstone.

Spring and fall's shoulder seasons are the best-kept secrets for visiting Wyoming’s major attractions: Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Jackson Hole. September stands out as our favorite month for traveling in Wyoming, offering lower accommodation prices, better availability, improved wildlife viewing, and trails that are refreshingly crowd-free.

April and October can bring unpredictable weather, but it often remains mild—just be sure to bring a variety of clothing for sudden changes. Wyoming campgrounds typically welcome visitors from May through mid-September or October.

The low season (November–March) is perfect for thrilling downhill skiing and winter sports.

Wyoming’s extreme continental climate means long, harsh winters, but for those prepared, a vast array of outdoor adventures awaits, often set against stunning backdrops. Choose from Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and winter wildlife watching. While Jackson Hole is renowned for its world-class skiing, it also offers delightful options for non-skiers, such as enchanting winter sleigh rides through the snowy landscape.

January is known for its legendary powder skiing.

The coldest month of the year brings legendary powder to Jackson Hole’s top three ski resorts: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King Mountain in the town of Jackson, along with Grand Targhee Resort nestled on the western slopes of the Tetons. The ski season runs from December through the first week of April, offering exceptional backcountry skiing and heli-skiing experiences.

February is all about the unique sport of skijoring.

Frozen conditions prevail across the state in February, providing excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. This month is also ideal for skijoring, a quirky winter sport invented in Norway where a skier is pulled by a horse at high speeds over jumps and slaloms. Key events: Pinedale Winter Carnival, Sheridan Winter Rodeo

March is the time for cycling in Yellowstone.

As winter begins to fade, snow remains in much of the state, necessitating some flexibility (and warm clothing) for outdoor adventures. From mid-March to mid-April, the road from Mammoth to West Yellowstone in Yellowstone National Park is open only to non-motorized traffic, making it an ideal opportunity for avid cyclists to explore.

April is the month for wildlife enthusiasts.

As spring settles in, the roads of Yellowstone National Park begin to open, starting with the western sections. April and May are excellent for wildlife viewing, offering chances to capture adorable baby bison on camera. Key events: Jackson Hole Rendezvous Spring Festival

May is for those eagerly anticipating summer.

May is the perfect month for early risers looking to explore the national parks without the crowds. By mid-May, all roads in Yellowstone are expected to open, making most roadside attractions accessible, though many hiking trails at higher elevations may still be covered in snow. Key events: Elkfest (Jackson Hole)

June is all about road trips.

Summer has officially arrived, with some lingering snow at higher altitudes but quickly rising temperatures in the sagebrush prairies. If you're visiting Devils Tower National Monument, be aware of the voluntary climbing ban in June, as many Indigenous ceremonies occur at this sacred site during this time. Key events: Riverton 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous, Eastern Shoshone Indian Days

July celebrates cowboy culture and powwows.

The peak of summer brings vibrant celebrations of Native American and frontier heritage throughout the state, from the ten-day Cheyenne Frontier Days (be sure to book your accommodation early for this popular rodeo event) to family-friendly mock Wild West shootouts occurring all summer in Cody and Jackson. Key events: Pinedale Green River Rendezvous, Lander Pioneer Days, Ethete Celebration Powwow

August is the month for experiencing Rocky Mountain highs.

High summer in Wyoming brings spectacular hiking and camping in the stunning mountains of the Grand Tetons, Bighorns, and Wind River Range. It’s also an ideal time for river running, paddling, and boating, though be wary of afternoon thunderstorms. Key events: Wyoming State Fair (Douglas)

September is the time for exploring national parks without the crowds.

September—especially after Labor Day—is the ideal time to explore Yellowstone and Grand Teton without the crowds. The fall foliage, the calls of bugling elk, and a delightful absence of mosquitoes and tourists create a wonderful atmosphere across the state, provided you're okay with cooler nights while camping and fewer ranger-led activities in the parks. Throughout September, park accommodations, campgrounds, and restaurants begin to close down. Key events: Northern Arapaho Powwow (Arapahoe)

October is for those seeking bargains and adventures.

As temperatures begin to dip in October, off-season accommodation rates drop across the state, while both Yellowstone and Grand Teton remain open. The stunning Beartooth Highway leading to Montana typically closes in mid-October due to snow. Hunters take the place of hikers at many national forest campgrounds, necessitating extra safety precautions for those out on the trails. Key events: Wyoming Film Festival (Sheridan)

November is the month for tranquility.

November brings a calm atmosphere, as ski season usually starts only after Thanksgiving. Roads and entrances in Yellowstone and Grand Teton begin closing for winter, as does the Snowy Range Scenic Drive in the southeastern part of the state.

December is the month for festive family fun.

Christmas in Yellowstone offers a truly enchanting experience—wrap up warm for a picturesque snow coach ride to Old Faithful, then snowshoe through frosty bison herds to explore the steaming geyser basins. December is also an ideal time to relax at the relatively mild resort of Thermopolis, home to the largest hot spring in the world.