Planning a visit to Yellowstone is a right of passage for any fan of the great outdoors. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll and a picnic, or mountain biking and extreme hiking, Yellowstone vacations offer the perfect combination of adventuring, sightseeing, and relaxation. Sprawling across three states (Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho), Yellowstone is the USA’s oldest national park, and is culturally, historically, and geographically rich.
While the park is an extremely popular vacation destination year-round, some months are significantly busier than others. Read on to learn about the months you won’t want to miss, and the months you might want to avoid when looking for Yellowstone vacation rentals.
When is the best time to visit Yellowstone?
In line with the school summer break, Yellowstone is busiest in July and August. During these months, the park is flooded with summer vacation lovers, as the weather allows for overnight stays, and the park hosts many events, like Yellowstone Beer Fest.
If a quiet connection with nature is more your style, you’d best visit in the spring. To escape the bustling crowds, a Yellowstone vacation any time from late April to June is optimal for comfortable temperatures, minimal traffic, and blooming nature. During this time, the roads open again, but it’s best to check Yellowstone’s website just to be sure.
That being said, later in the year is just as serene. September and October are also blissfully quiet months, coinciding with the back-to-school period. The park itself, however, is far from quiet, as September marks the rutting season for Elk. Other wildlife such as bison, black bears, and deer also frequent the park.
While winter at Yellowstone is picturesque and unique, the weather conditions are harsh. December is the wettest month, while January temperatures have been known to reach 25° F (-4° C). The park is still busy in the winter, though, with the Yellowstone Ski Festival and Bozeman Ice Festival.
Where to stay when visiting Yellowstone
Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin in the woods or a modern, sleek design, our luxury home rentals guarantee maximum comfort. Read on to get inspired by some of our stunning villas in Montana and Idaho.
Montana
With 63 villas, Montana is our most popular location for Yellowstone vacation rentals. September and October are the driest Montana months, which, coincidentally, are Yellowstone’s least busy! During these months, temperatures are comfortable, making for excellent hiking conditions.
Luxury rentals like Big Sky 30 are perfect for a more crisp, urban feel, while villas like Big Sky 6 offer a secluded and homely environment in the Montana forest.
Idaho
With warm summer days, Idaho is the perfect base for exploring the great outdoors. If you want a combination of city break and forest living, our sleek Sun Valley 35 villa is perfect for you.
