Yellowstone in February: Weather, Wildlife, and 7 Fun Things To Do & See
February in Yellowstone is an adventure into the heart of winter in one of America's most iconic national parks. As temperatures drop and snow blankets the park’s geothermal features, visitors are treated to a true winter wonderland. This post will guide you through what to expect during your February visit, from crisp weather and limited access to park roads to exceptional opportunities for wildlife watching, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Discover the best ways to enjoy Yellowstone’s winter beauty and make the most of your trip to Yellowstone in February!
What to Expect in Yellowstone in February
February is one of the best winter months to visit Yellowstone because it combines the deep winter beauty with gradually lengthening days, offering more daylight for exploration. Wildlife watching is particularly rewarding in Yellowstone in February, especially in Lamar Valley, where wolves, bison, and elk are frequently seen against the snowy backdrop. Plus, activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowcoach tours allow visitors to fully immerse in Yellowstone's winter wonderland. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Yellowstone in February.
Weather and Temperatures: Yellowstone in February generally remains blanketed in snow. The park's elevations, ranging from 6,000 to 11,000 feet, mean that weather conditions can vary, but February visitors should prepare for consistently cold temperatures and significant snowfall. At Mammoth Hot Springs, February temperatures typically reach an average high of around 34°F (1°C) and a low of 13°F (-11°C). Higher elevations, such as Old Faithful, often experience even colder conditions, with temperatures frequently below zero. Snowfall is common, with an average of 9 snowy days throughout the month.
Lodging: Accommodations in Yellowstone are limited in February, with the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel being the only hotels open within the park. Outside the park, you can stay in nearby towns, such as Gardiner, MT, and West Yellowstone, MT.
Road Closures: Road access in February is limited, with only the route between the North Entrance (Gardiner) and the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City) open to self-driving. All other park roads remain closed to cars but can be explored via snowcoaches and snowmobiles, which provide access to popular areas like Old Faithful and Artist Point in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Services: While services are reduced, essential amenities are still available, and the park is well-equipped to support winter visitors. There are also many winter tours and activities available through concessionaires, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and guided snowmobile and snowcoach tours. February is an adventurous and fun time of year to explore Yellowstone!
Things to Do: Popular activities when visiting Yellowstone in February include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife watching. The park’s geothermal features are also beautiful to witness in the winter, with the rising steam contrasting against the cold air.
Wildlife Watching: February is arguably the best month of the year for wolf-watching in Yellowstone National Park. Wolves, as well as coyotes and red foxes, are more easily spotted against the snow-covered landscape.
Overall, Yellowstone in February is perfect for those seeking solitude and a chance to experience the park’s natural beauty in a fun, snow-covered setting. However, visitors should be prepared for the cold and limited services, ensuring they have the proper gear, reservations, and backup plans in place.
Why You Should Visit Yellowstone in February
Yellowstone in February stands out from any other time of year. The park is fully immersed in its winter wonderland, where a blanket of snow creates stunning contrasts against the geysers and hot springs. February is prime time for wolf watching, especially in Lamar Valley, where the chances of spotting these elusive predators in the wild are higher as they move across the snow-covered terrain. Adventure seekers can enjoy snowshoeing through quiet, snow-draped forests or snowmobiling along groomed trails that offer access to areas otherwise unreachable in winter. The serenity and beauty of Yellowstone in February, combined with its unique winter activities, make it a magical time to visit, offering an experience that few other months can match.
Downsides of Visiting Yellowstone in February
While visiting Yellowstone in February offers a unique and serene experience, there are some drawbacks, such as:
Limited Free Attractions: Most park roads are closed to self-driving, with only the road between the North and Northeast Entrances open in the winter. This limits the areas you can explore without booking guided snowcoach or snowmobile tours. Expect your winter trip to primarily focus on photography, snowcoach or snowmobile sightseeing, snow sports, and winter wildlife viewing. And unless you’re planning to snowshoe or cross-country ski, don’t expect to see certain highlights, such as the Grand Prismatic Spring, in the winter. You can, however, see Artist Point in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, an Old Faithful Geyser eruption, Lamar and Hayden Valleys, Mammoth Hot Springs, and much more!
Cold Temperatures: February is one of the coldest months in Yellowstone, with average temperatures ranging from highs around 34°F to lows around 13°F that can drop to -10°F (-23°C) or lower, especially in the evenings and at higher elevations. Preparing for Yellowstone’s cold temperatures and packing accordingly is crucial to enjoy your visit.
Limited Services: Many of the park’s facilities, including lodges, restaurants, and visitor centers, are either closed, limited, or operating with reduced hours in February. This means fewer options for dining, lodging, and other services inside and outside the park. You’ll want to identify open restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations ahead of time, typically planning on stocking up in the gateway towns of West Yellowstone, MT, and Gardiner, MT.
Potential for Harsh Weather: Heavy snowfall and blizzards can occur, which may impact your travel plans, cause road closures, or make outdoor activities more difficult. Prepare for changing plans because of too much—or even not enough—snow. Because most of Yellowstone’s roads are open to snowmobile and snow coach travel only, weather conditions must be optimal for touring Yellowstone in February. Have a backup plan, such as visiting the Yellowstone Hot Springs near Gardiner, MT, and/or exploring the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone.
Fewer Wildlife Sightings (Bears are Hibernating): While some animals are more visible in winter, such as wolves, others may be harder to spot, and you might have to venture into remote areas like Lamar Valley to see them. (For this reason, we highly recommend renting a car and spending at least a portion of your February trip in Gardiner, MT, or Mammoth Hot Springs.) And don’t forget—Some animals, like bears, are hibernating, so you’re not likely to see them in February. February is a great month to visit Yellowstone if you’re hoping to see wolves, red foxes, or coyotes, but is not a good time to visit for bear-watching.
These factors can make visiting in February more challenging, but the rewards outweigh the drawbacks for those prepared and eager to experience Yellowstone’s winter beauty. It’s truly spectacular!
Yellowstone Weather in February
In February, Yellowstone experiences deep winter conditions with cold temperatures and frequent snowfall. The park’s vast range of elevations, from 6,000 to 11,000 feet, means that weather can vary significantly depending on your location. At lower elevations like Mammoth Hot Springs, February temperatures average a high of around 34°F (1°C) and a low of 13°F (-11°C). In higher areas such as Old Faithful, temperatures can be even colder.
Snowfall is common, with the park averaging around 9 days of snow during the month and the snow ranging from dry, fluffy powder to heavy, wet snow. This variation impacts not only the park’s appearance but also the conditions for winter activities and travel. Be prepared for winter driving conditions on open roads and expect icy surfaces and potentially limited visibility due to snow showers. Despite the cold, the crisp winter air and snow-covered landscapes create a stunning, especially picturesque environment. It’s one of the most beautiful months of the year to photograph Yellowstone National Park.
Monthly averages from NPS.gov.
How busy is Yellowstone in February?
Yellowstone is much quieter in February compared to almost any other time of year, making it an ideal time for those who prefer solitude and a more peaceful experience. In February 2023, the park recorded around 45,000 visitors, a stark contrast to the over 950,000 visitors seen in July. Fewer visitors means enjoying the park's natural beauty, wildlife, and geothermal features without the crowds. The reduced traffic also makes it easier to find lodging and participate in winter activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowcoach tours.
However, remember that while February sees fewer visitors, traffic is concentrated around open attractions. This means that you’ll see other people on the drive between Gardiner and Cooke City—and you’ll be with a group of people for the entirety of your guided tour, so don’t expect complete remoteness unless you venture onto a trail.
February is a great time to visit Yellowstone for a quieter experience.
What wildlife can you see in Yellowstone in February?
Even in the heart of winter, Yellowstone offers excellent opportunities for wildlife watching. In February, you can spot bison, which are well-adapted to the cold and can be seen grazing through deep snow in areas like Lamar Valley. Elk are also commonly seen, particularly around Mammoth Hot Springs. Wolves, which were reintroduced to the park in the 1990s, are more visible in winter due to their activity during the day and the lack of foliage. You might also encounter coyotes, foxes, and occasionally moose in the park’s snowy landscapes. While bears are hibernating, other animals like eagles, ravens, and otters can be seen near open water or geothermal features.
Here’s some wildlife to look for in Yellowstone in February!
Wolves: February is one of the best months of the year to see wolves in Yellowstone. With snow covering the landscape, wolves leave distinct tracks, making them easier to spot. The contrast between the white snow and the dark fur of the wolves helps in spotting their movements. Plus, wolves are more active and visible as they hunt and travel in search of food. This is a crucial time for them, as they need to build up their energy reserves for the upcoming spring. The drive between Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley is particularly good for wolf watching. Spend extra time watching for wolves near Blacktail Plateau, Petrified Tree, and Slough Creek.
Foxes: Red foxes are also more easily spotted against a snowy winter landscape. Look for red foxes hunting in the snow, diving headfirst into the drifts to catch small rodents.
Bison: Winter in Yellowstone offers the chance to view and photograph bison in winter coats. As bison roam near geyser basins particularly, huge balls of snow often dangle from their beards, and their frosty appearance adds to their imposing presence. Bison appear even more impressive against a wintry backdrop.
Coyotes: Coyotes are also active in winter, hunting for small mammals or scavenging near thermal areas and along the roadsides.
Bighorn Sheep: These animals can be seen in rocky areas, particularly in the Northern Range closer to Cooke City, MT, where they come down to lower elevations to feed.
Wildlife watching in Yellowstone in February is a special experience. Many animals are more visible against the snowy backdrop, and the quieter environment allows for more peaceful observation and easier navigation of wildlife pull-offs.
Bison near Madison Junction.
7 Fun Things To Do in Yellowstone in February
February in Yellowstone is a winter wonderland that offers a range of unique activities. But remember, Yellowstone’s interior is closed to private vehicles during the winter months, so you’ll have to plan for a different mode of transportation if you’re hoping to visit attractions like Old Faithful or Artist Point.
Snow coach and snowmobile tours are two of the most popular ways to see Yellowstone’s interior in February. A snowmobile tour is perfect if you’re looking for an adventure or a fun way to explore Yellowstone! If you love speed and thrills or activities like ATV-ing or jet skiing, you’ll love snowmobiling through Yellowstone. (Note: Snowmobile tours generally run out of West Yellowstone.)
Snowcoach tours, on the other hand, move at a slightly slower pace, allowing more time for photography and exploration on foot. Snowcoach tours generally run out of West Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Gardiner. You’ll also learn more about the park on a snow coach tour as you listen to your tour guide share facts and interesting park information as you explore.
Here are some of the best things to do in Yellowstone in February.
Snowcoach Tours: For those who prefer a more relaxed way to see the park, snowcoach tours provide a comfortable, heated ride through Yellowstone's winter scenery. These oversized vehicles can traverse the snow-covered roads, offering access to key areas like Old Faithful and Artist Point within the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Yellowstone National Park Lodges offers snow coach transportation and guided tours from Mammoth to Old Faithful and Canyon Village. Yellowstone Vacations also offers snow coach tours from Gardiner and West Yellowstone to Yellowstone Interior. Although the snowcoaches are heated, be sure to wear warm footwear and layered clothing for sightseeing stops along the way.
Snowmobiling / Snowmobiling Tours: Snowmobiling is one of the most popular activities in Yellowstone in February. Guided snowmobile tours allow you to explore the park and see famous sights like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. To snowmobile through Yellowstone in the winter, you can enter to win a personal snowmobile permit or join a guided snowmobile tour. Most Yellowstone snowmobile tours begin in West Yellowstone, MT. Heads up: Wear ski goggles, wool socks, and a buff... it’s cold traveling through Yellowstone at speed!
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing is a great way to explore Yellowstone in February. You can hire a guide, bring your own gear, or rent gear at shops like Parks’ Fly Shop in Gardiner, MT, or Bear Den Ski Shop at Mammoth Hot Springs.
Wildlife Watching in Lamar Valley: February is a great time for wildlife watching in Yellowstone. The Northern Range, between Gardiner, MT, and Cooke City, MT, is particularly good for observing wildlife. Visiting Yellowstone in winter also allows spotting wildlife tracks in the snow, providing clues about their movements and behavior.
Watch the Old Faithful Geyser erupt: The park's geothermal features take on a unique quality in winter. The contrast between the hot water and the snowy surroundings creates stunning photo opportunities. Book a snowcoach or snowmobile tour to explore Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, and the Upper Geyser Basin. And be sure to stick around the Upper Geyser Basin for an Old Faithful Geyser eruption. When this famous geyser erupts, its near-boiling water meets the frigid air, sometimes creating a stunning phenomenon known as “geyser rain.” Watch as tiny icy crystals and flakes gracefully fall to the ground.
Photography: Yellowstone's winter landscape is a photographer's dream. From the snow-draped trees to the steaming geysers and abundant wildlife, there are countless opportunities for capturing breathtaking images in Yellowstone in February.
Mammoth Hot Springs: The terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs are a must-do in February. The area is also home to the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, one of the few lodging options open during winter. Note: Some sections of the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces may be closed in winter, but we highly recommend exploring all open boardwalk areas.
February is a great time to visit Yellowstone, offering a different and often more intimate and adventurous experience of the park.
Driving through Yellowstone in February
In February, only the roads between the North Entrance (in Gardiner) and the Northeast Entrance (near Cooke City) are open for self-driving. This route offers access to key areas like Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley, but is not a complete tour of the park, and access beyond these points typically requires traveling via snowcoach, snowmobile, or cross-country ski.
That said, driving is still one of the best things to do in Yellowstone in February, and park rangers do a great job of keeping these main roads from Gardiner to Cooke City as clear as possible. We highly recommend driving this entire way, from Gardiner to Mammoth to Tower Junction through Lamar Valley and the Northeast Entrance to Cooke City.
Pay extra attention to the views from the Gardiner River Bridge (particularly when driving back toward Gardiner) and the Icebox Canyon (between Lamar Valley and the Northeast Entrance). After you arrive in Cooke City, grab a hot chocolate at Cooke City Coffee before turning around. (The Visitor Center in Cooke City has public restrooms if you need them.) Then, prepare for the views to get even better on your way back!
Driving through Yellowstone in February requires extra caution due to wintery conditions, including the possibility of snow and icy roads. Many rental car companies do not allow snow chains, so it’s best to drive slowly and be prepared for rapidly changing winter conditions. Wildlife such as bison can often be seen near or on the road in the winter, which is another reason to drive with caution.
Where to Stay to Visit Yellowstone in February
In February, the options for lodging within Yellowstone National Park are limited due to seasonal closures, but there are still a few great places to stay that provide access to winter activities and the park’s snowy landscapes. One of the benefits of visiting Yellowstone in winter is that—aside from the busy Christmas week—you can often find accommodations on shorter notice.
1. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel:
Location: Located in the northern part of the park, near the Mammoth Hot Springs terraces.
Why Stay Here: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is one of the only lodges open within Yellowstone during winter. It offers accommodations with easy access to the Northern Range, a prime area for winter wildlife watching, and the Mammoth Hot Springs themselves. The hotel also serves as a base for snowcoach and cross-country skiing tours.
2. Old Faithful Snow Lodge:
Location: Situated near the famous Old Faithful Geyser in the park's interior.
Why Stay Here: Accessible only by snowcoach or snowmobile in winter, the Old Faithful Snow Lodge offers a unique and remote winter experience. Guests can explore the nearby geysers and hot springs and enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered geothermal features. The lodge provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere, perfect for a winter retreat.
3. Gardiner, Montana:
Location: Just outside Yellowstone’s North Entrance.
Why Stay Here: Gardiner sits at Yellowstone’s North Entrance, which is the only entrance open for self-driving in February. This means you can drive your own vehicle into the park from this entrance only. Here, you’ll have access to Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley, between which are some of the best spots for winter wildlife watching. Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, or take a snow coach into the park’s interior for more sightseeing. Gardiner offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals, and is a convenient place to stay when visiting Yellowstone in February. We might be biased—after all, we live here part-time—but Gardiner, MT, is our favorite home base for visiting Yellowstone.
4. West Yellowstone, Montana:
Location: Located near the park’s West Entrance.
Why Stay Here: West Yellowstone is a hub for winter activities, with numerous lodging options and easy access to snowmobile and snowcoach tours into Yellowstone. The town also has the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, a great spot to learn about local wildlife and view grizzly bears and wolves (among other wildlife) from a safe and close distance. West Yellowstone is a great choice if you’re looking to experience the park’s geothermal features and join guided tours.
We recommend planning a 7-day trip to Yellowstone in February, spending 3-4 nights in Gardiner and three nights in West Yellowstone or at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge.
Getting to Yellowstone in February
The easiest way to get to Yellowstone in February is to fly into Bozeman International Airport (BZN) and then rent a car to drive to the park. However, driving in February requires extra caution due to wintery conditions, including the possibility of snow and icy roads. It’s best to drive slowly and be prepared for rapidly changing winter conditions. Bozeman Pass between Livingston and Bozeman can be difficult during winter, and unpredictable weather can cause road closures. We highly recommend avoiding early flights from Bozeman unless spending the night before your flight in a nearby Bozeman hotel.
Packing for Yellowstone in February
Here's a comprehensive packing list for a winter trip to Yellowstone.
Clothing
Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (merino wool or synthetic).
Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jacket for warmth.
Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof winter coat (preferably insulated).
Snow Pants: Waterproof and insulated snow pants.
Warm Hat: Wool or fleece beanie that covers your ears.
Gloves/Mittens: Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens.
Neck Gaiter/Scarf/Buff: For extra warmth and protection against the wind.
Socks: Thick wool socks (bring a few pairs).
Winter Boots: Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction.
Gear
Sunglasses or Goggles: For protection against the sun’s glare on the snow.
Daypack: To carry snacks, water, extra layers, and camera gear.
Trekking Poles: Optional, but useful for stability on snowy or icy trails.
Snowshoes/Cross-Country Skis: If you plan to explore backcountry trails.
Water Bottle/Thermos: Insulated bottle to keep drinks from freezing.
Binoculars: For spotting wildlife from a distance.
Essentials
Sunblock: The sun can be intense even in winter, especially with the reflection off the snow.
Lip Balm: To protect against chapped lips in the cold, dry air.
Camera: To capture the stunning winter landscapes and wildlife.
Phone/Camera Batteries: Cold weather can drain batteries quickly, so bring extras and keep the extras in a warm inner pocket of your coat or backpack.
Nail Clippers/Nail File: Winter in Yellowstone is extremely dry.
Hand Lotion: Really dry.
For Lodging
Swimsuit: Particularly if you’re staying in Gardiner… so you can relax at Yellowstone Hot Springs or Chico Hot Springs.
Comfortable Indoor Clothes: For relaxing in your hotel or lodge.
Slippers: Warm, comfortable slippers for indoor use.
How to Dress for Yellowstone in February
Temperatures can vary in February, so layering is key to staying comfortable. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Add insulating layers, such as fleece or down, to retain body heat, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer to protect against the elements. You’ll want to avoid tight-fitting garments and cotton clothes. And don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf or buff to cover exposed skin, as these will help prevent frostbite and keep you warm.
For wildlife watching, we highly recommend investing in insulated boots, heavy wool socks, and gloves (possibly liners + wool/fleece gloves). For mostly scenic driving or guided tours, you’ll hop in and out of the warm car/bus, so you may be comfortable with whatever winter boots and gloves you have in your closet.
One more note: Unless you snowmobile often, we recommend renting snowmobile gear at the time of your booking. (When you sign up for the tour, also book rental gear.) You’ll be driving up to 40mph, which makes the temperature feel much colder. And remember, you’re snowmobiling, not exploring on foot, so you won’t work up as much internal heat as you would with cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Wear your thermal layer, snow or sweat pants, winter jacket, wool socks, and buff, then rent gloves, boots, and a snowmobile suit. We also recommend tinted snow goggles (vs. sunglasses).
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Happy Travels!