10 Need-to-Know Tips for Visiting Yellowstone in Summer

Yellowstone National Park is hands down one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited, especially during the summer. If you’re like me and love the idea of epic hikes, wildlife encounters, and stunning geothermal features all under sunny skies, then a summer trip to Yellowstone should definitely be on your list. Tim and I have visited Yellowstone three times, and each visit has been unique, especially in summer when the park comes alive with activity.

In this guide to visiting Yellowstone National Park in the summer, we share our top 10 tips for enjoying your trip, plus practical need-to-know information for visiting during the summer months.

10 Tips for Visiting Yellowstone National Park in Summer

Here are 10 essential tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park in the summer:

1. Start Early to Avoid Crowds – Summer is peak season, so plan to arrive at popular sites like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring early in the morning or late afternoon to skip the midday rush.
2. Book Lodging and Campsites in Advance – Yellowstone’s accommodations fill up quickly in summer, so make sure to book your lodging or campsite 6 months or more ahead of your trip.
3. Pack Layers – Even in summer, Yellowstone’s weather can be unpredictable. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
4. Stay Hydrated – Between hiking, elevation, and summer sun, it’s easy to get dehydrated. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water. We recommend having a pack of electrolyte powder on hand too!
5. Bring Bug Spray – Mosquitoes and other bugs can be plentiful near water and in the backcountry, so don’t forget insect repellent, especially if you’re hiking or camping.
6. Respect Wildlife – Keep a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from all other animals). Yellowstone’s wildlife is beautiful, but it’s important to admire them from afar. Don’t be one of those tourists mocked by the internet for getting charged by a bison after getting way too close.
7. Check Road Conditions – Summer is also road construction season. Be sure to check for any road closures or delays before setting out on your drives within the park.
8. Stay on Marked Trails – For both your safety and to protect the fragile environment, always stay on designated paths and boardwalks, especially around geysers and thermal areas.
9. Bring a Picnic – Many restaurants and snack bars can get busy, so consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of Yellowstone’s scenic spots. This will save you hours in dining time!
10. Don’t Rely on Cell Service – Yellowstone has very limited cell coverage, so download maps and offline resources before your trip. Having a good old-fashioned paper map can also come in handy.

More Information About Visiting Yellowstone in Summer

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone in summer, from when to go, what to pack, and the best ways to beat the crowds.

When to Visit Yellowstone in Summer

Yellowstone’s summer season kicks off in June and runs through August, with July and August being the most popular months. Early summer (June) is a fantastic time to visit if you want to see the park’s lush greenery, full rivers, and snow still hanging around on the mountain peaks. Late summer is great if you prefer warmer temperatures and want to see more wildlife activity.

Just a heads up: while the weather is generally warm during the day (think highs in the 70s or 80s), the mornings and evenings can still be pretty chilly, especially at higher elevations. And don’t be surprised if you get caught in a summer rainstorm—Yellowstone’s weather can be unpredictable! For example, when we camped in Yellowstone in June, we woke up to snow after a below-freezing night!

What to See and Do in Yellowstone During Summer

Iconic Summer Sights in Yellowstone

You can’t visit Yellowstone without seeing some of its most famous sights. First on the list is Old Faithful—no matter how many times I see it, the eruption is always mesmerizing. While you’re there, explore the Upper Geyser Basin for some seriously impressive geothermal activity.

Another absolute must is the Grand Prismatic Spring—trust me, it’s even more vibrant in person than it looks in photos. For breathtaking views, hike to the overlook for a bird’s-eye view of the spring. And don’t miss the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where the massive waterfall and colorful canyon walls will leave you speechless.

Summer Hiking in Yellowstone

Yellowstone has hiking trails for every skill level. If you’re looking for something easy, Artist Point is a quick walk with incredible views of the canyon. For a moderate challenge, the Mount Washburn hike is a favorite of ours, offering panoramic views from the top. If you’re feeling more adventurous, tackle Avalanche Peak for a tough but rewarding hike.

Yellowstone Wildlife Viewing in Summer

One of the best parts of summer in Yellowstone is the chance to see wildlife in action. Lamar Valley is your best bet for spotting bison, wolves, and maybe even a bear. We like to go early in the morning or just before sunset when animals are most active. Just be sure to keep a safe distance—Yellowstone’s wildlife is wild for a reason!

Summer Water Activities in Yellowstone

If you’re into water activities, there’s plenty to do. Yellowstone Lake is perfect for fishing, kayaking, or just taking in the views.

Other Summer Activities in Yellowstone

Don’t forget to check out ranger-led programs—they’re a fun way to learn about the park’s history and wildlife. And if you’re a night owl like me, stargazing in Yellowstone is unreal. There’s almost no light pollution, so the night sky is full of stars.

>>>Check out the perfect 3-day Yellowstone National Park itinerary, ideal for a summer visit!

What to Pack for a Summer Visit

Yellowstone’s weather can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared. Here’s what I recommend packing for a summer trip:

• Layered clothing: Even on the warmest days, mornings and evenings can be cold, so pack layers like a fleece jacket or light down coat.
• Hiking essentials: Sturdy boots, moisture-wicking socks, and a good daypack are a must.
• Sun protection: The sun is intense at higher elevations, so don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Bear spray: You’ll hear this a lot, but it’s important. You need bear spray if you’re hiking in Yellowstone.
• Refillable water bottle: It’s easy to get dehydrated while hiking at altitude, so pack plenty of water.

>>> Check out our ultimate Yellowstone packing list for everything you need for your trip!

Avoiding Crowds in Summer

Yellowstone gets busy in the summer, but with a little planning, you can still enjoy some peace and quiet. Our strategy? Hit the popular spots like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring early in the morning or late in the day. Not only will you avoid the crowds, but the light is better for photos.

If you want to escape the tourists altogether, head to lesser-known areas like the Bechler Region or Norris Geyser Basin. You’ll find fewer people and still get to experience the beauty of Yellowstone.

Safety Tips for Summer

While summer in Yellowstone is beautiful, it’s important to be prepared. The high elevation means you need to stay hydrated, especially if you’re hiking. Wildlife encounters are exciting but can be dangerous, so always keep a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other animals). Finally, always check road and trail conditions before heading out, as they can change quickly due to weather or wildlife activity.

Where to Stay in Yellowstone

If you can, try to stay within Yellowstone National Park. Because the park is so large and remote, staying in any towns will result in lengthier drives every day.

Hotels in the Park

Yellowstone National Park has a number of historic lodges and inns in the park. Rooms book up fast, so plan ahead. You can make reservations at Yellowstone hotels here.

• Canyon Lodge and Cabins
• Grant Village Lodge
• Lake Hotel and Cabins
• Lake Lodge Cabins
• Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins
• Old Faithful Inn
• Old Faithful Lodge
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge
• Roosevelt Lodge

Camping in the Park

If you have an RV or a tent, camping is a great way to stay within the park on a budget. The campsites are far from luxurious, but they have flushing toilets and great views. And of course, you can’t beat the locations.

Like the hotels within the park, the campsites in Yellowstone National Park also book up fast. You can make check campsite availability and make reservations here.

Where to Stay Outside the Park

West Yellowstone

• Yellowstone Lodge
• Crosswinds Inn
• Kelly Inn West Yellowstone

Jackson

• The Rockwell Inn
• Wyoming Inn of Jackson Hole
• Inn on the Creek

Gardiner

• The Antler Lodge Gardiner
• The Ridgeline Hotel
• Yellowstone Gateway Inn

Cody

• Moose Creek Lodge and Suites
• Cody Legacy Inn and Suites
• The Cody

Dining and Food Tips

Yellowstone has a few in-park dining options, but we like to pack our own meals and snacks to enjoy picnics at scenic spots around the park. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a meal with a view of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone or next to a peaceful river.

If you do decide to dine in the park, places like the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room offer classic American fare. Just be prepared for long waits during peak season. Oh, and don’t forget to pack out all your trash—Yellowstone is big on Leave No Trace principles.

Yellowstone Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to Grand Teton National Park—it’s just an hour’s drive south and offers some of the most stunning mountain views in the country. Another option is exploring Jackson Hole, where you can enjoy more outdoor activities and cool downtown vibes.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Yellowstone in Summer

Yellowstone in summer is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, watching wildlife in Lamar Valley, or soaking in the beauty of the park’s geothermal wonders, there’s something for everyone.

Tim and I have fallen in love with this park all over again each time we visit, and I’m sure you will too. If you’re planning a summer trip to Yellowstone, start early, pack smart, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget.

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