Summer break for the kids and the weather temperate enough to allow a pleasant evening outdoors make the months of July and August the best time of the year to visit Yellowstone.
Other great periods are from late April to May and then September to October.
These months are the best months to visit as it is comparatively a less busy time of the year in Yellowstone in terms of tourists, the temperatures are also mild, and there are seldom any road closures.
The weather in August is perfect for hiking, and all the park’s facilities are available during this time.
But the influx of tourists also means accommodations fill up in a jiffy, so it’s recommended to make reservations as early as possible.
There are a number of events and festivals to engage in during August, like the Musician’s Rendezvous, the Big Sky Vine and Dine, the Music in the Mountains, the Moonlight MusicFest, and the Yellowstone International Arts Festival.
Yellowstone’s Weather In August
The weather in Yellowstone during the month of August is pleasantly hot during the day, but after the Sun sets, it cools down significantly.
The highest daily temperature in Yellowstone in August varies from 77 F (25 C) to 71 F (22 C), seldom exceeding 84 F (29 C) or dipping below 61 F (16 C).
Low temperatures range from 41 F (5 C) to 46 F (8 C), rarely exceeding 52 F (11 C) or falling below 33 F (0.5 C).
The average daytime temperature is 79 F (26 C), and the average nighttime temperature is 47 F (8 C).
The month of August also sees the clouds gradually covering the land, providing a gentle shade for any daytime hikes or sightseeing.
Moreover, the chances of an unexpected downpour are also very low.
What To Wear For Daytime Activities In Yellowstone
Yellowstone is the oldest national park in the United States and thus is filled to the brim with activities for you to indulge in, both by yourself and with family.
Famous landmarks are sprinkled around the entirety of the park, and sightseeing is one of the main attractions in the region.
Seeing the Old Faithful Geyser:
Named so because of its fairly predictable nature, Old Faithful is the only geyser out of the 500 or so to be given a title.
It erupts once every 90 minutes or so, so it is comparatively easy to see it in action.
A T-shirt and a waterproof layer on top to protect you from the water spurt would be adequate for a trip to see this intriguing landmark.
Visiting the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River:
One of the most common landmarks you will find mentioned in travel articles on Yellowstone is the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone River.
It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in the park, and you should make every effort to plan a visit.
Shorts and short-sleeved shirts should help you ward off the heat and provide comfort on long walks through this marvel of nature.
Driving on the Yellowstone Grand Loop Road:
The loop road is an 8-shaped road that passes through all the landmarks of Yellowstone, and so it’s one of the easiest ways to catch a quick look at everything the park has to offer.
A drive through this scenic route should be any motorhead’s dream come true.
A leather jacket along with tight-fitting pants and sneakers or boots should be perfect for this endeavor.
What To Wear For Nighttime Activities In Yellowstone
The nightlife in Yellowstone is not as active as in many cosmopolitan cities, given the fact that it’s a natural park.
But even then, there are enough distractions to satiate your inner nocturnal self.
Spending a night at the Old Faithful Inn:
Even if you don’t check-in at the hotel, it’s worth it to take a night and just explore one of the most historic buildings in the park.
It’s one of the oldest buildings in Yellowstone and is also widely regarded as the largest log construction in the world.
A warm, windproof fleece jacket, a pair of long pants, and a scarf to complement the look would look really classy at this venue.
Star Gazing and Wildlife Watching:
Wildlife tours after dark are a common sight nowadays at Yellowstone, giving you a glimpse at the beasts of the night.
Also, you might want to take a moment and just lie on your backs and marvel at the impressive star-studded sky above the park.
A warm sweatshirt and jacket, along with comfy and warm trousers, should help keep you warm if the night is chilly, which it usually is at Yellowstone.
Other Things You Should Pack For An August Vacation In Yellowstone:
- Binoculars
- Bear Spray
- A star chart
- Plastic Bags
- Headlamp
- Bug Spray