Yellowstone in January: Weather, Wildlife, and 8 Picturesque Things to Do
With snow blanketing the park, Yellowstone in January is a quiet, icy paradise, and visitors are treated to a peaceful, less-crowded experience. The park’s famous geothermal features, such as the Old Faithful Geyser, take on a different level of beauty, with steam rising against the cold air. Wildlife, including bison and wolves, are more visible against the snowy backdrop, creating incredible photo opportunities. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone National Park in January, from weather and wildlife to 8 of the most picturesque things to do and see!
What to Expect in Yellowstone in January
Visiting Yellowstone in January offers a truly unique experience, but it also requires careful planning due to the winter conditions. Here’s what you can expect.
Weather and Temperatures: January in Yellowstone is cold and snowy, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 9°F to 29°F (-12°C to -2°C), and nighttime temperatures often dropping well below zero. Snowfall is usually frequent, averaging 14.5 inches of total snowfall in January. (This is the most average snowfall of all winter months.) Yellowstone is usually covered in a thick blanket of snow in January, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.
Lodging: Accommodations in the park are limited in January, with the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel being the only lodges open within the park. Outside the park, you can stay in nearby towns, such as Gardiner, MT, and West Yellowstone, MT. It’s essential to book early, as lodges and accommodations can fill up quickly during the winter season due to limited options.
Road Closures: Most of Yellowstone’s roads are closed to vehicle traffic in January, with the exception of the road between the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT) and the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT), which remains open year-round. Other roads are accessible only by guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours, weather permitting.
Services: Visitor services are more limited in winter. The park offers fewer dining and shopping options, and many facilities are closed. However, winter tours and activities are still available through concessionaires, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and guided snowmobile and snowcoach tours. Winter months offer a unique and adventurous way to explore the park!
Things to Do: Popular winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife watching. The park’s geothermal features are particularly interesting in the winter, with steam rising dramatically against the cold air.
Wildlife Watching: January is an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals like bison, elk, and wolves are more easily spotted against the snow-covered landscape. Wildlife tends to concentrate in areas where geothermal heat provides warmth and food, making for great viewing opportunities.
Overall, January in Yellowstone is perfect for those seeking solitude and a chance to experience the park’s natural beauty in a quiet, snow-covered setting. However, visitors should be prepared for the cold and limited services, ensuring they have the proper gear and reservations in place.
Why You Should Visit Yellowstone in January
Visiting Yellowstone in January offers a chance to see the park in its most serene and picturesque winter form. The snow-draped landscapes create gorgeous views of the park’s most iconic sites, like Old Faithful and the Mammoth Hot Springs, set against a pristine white backdrop. This time of year provides great opportunities for wildlife viewing, with bison, red foxes, and wolves more visible against the snow, and the quieter winter season means you can enjoy the park’s wonders without the summer crowds.
Activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or guided snowcoach tours add a unique perspective to your visit, making January an ideal month for those seeking a peaceful and photogenic adventure in Yellowstone.
Downsides of Visiting Yellowstone in January
Visiting Yellowstone in January has its own challenges and downsides, mainly road closures, weather, and reduced services. Here are some reasons you may not want to visit Yellowstone in January.
Severe Weather Conditions: Winter temperatures can plummet well below freezing, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Snow and ice can make travel difficult and even temporarily close the few roads that are open in Yellowstone. During snowstorms, there may be days when you cannot explore the park, keeping you inside more than expected. (Pro tip: Curl up by the fireplace in Old Faithful Lodge with a good book on these days!) At the same time, less-than-usual snowfall can temporarily close tours that require snow, such as guided snowmobile tours to Yellowstone’s interior.
Limited Accessibility: Many of Yellowstone’s roads are closed to vehicles during the winter months. Outside of the roads between Gardiner, MT, and Cookie City, MT, access to the park’s interior is by snowcoach or snowmobile, which can be limiting compared to the full range of driving routes available in summer. The good news is that you’ll still be able to visit Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley by car! However, you will have to book snowcoach, snowmobile, and other winter tours to explore the rest of the park, making January a generally more expensive time to visit Yellowstone.
Reduced Services: Some facilities and services, such as restaurants, visitor centers, and certain lodging options, are closed or have reduced hours. This limits dining and accommodation choices within the park.
Bears are Hibernating: While winter is a great time to see certain wildlife, some animals, like bears, are hibernating, so their visibility is reduced. Winter is not the best time of year to visit Yellowstone if you’re most hoping to see bears.
Limited Activities: Certain summer activities, like hiking on all trails and visiting higher elevation areas, are not feasible in winter. Activities are primarily focused on snow sports and winter wildlife viewing. Unless you’re planning to snowshoe or cross-country ski, don’t plan on seeing certain highlights, such as the Grand Prismatic Spring, during winter months. You can, however, see Artist Point in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, an Old Faithful Geyser eruption, Lamar and Hayden Valleys, and much more!
Yellowstone Weather in January
January in Yellowstone is cold and snowy, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 9°F to 29°F (-12°C to -2°C) and nighttime temperatures often dropping well below zero. Snowfall is frequent, snowing for an average of 8 days in January while averaging 14.5 inches of total snowfall. (This is the most of all winter months.) The park is usually covered in a thick blanket of snow in January, creating a wintery landscape. The cold combined with Yellowstone’s high elevation makes January one of the harshest months in Yellowstone, so visitors should be prepared for winter conditions and dress accordingly.
Monthly averages from NPS.gov.
Is Yellowstone busy in January?
Yellowstone is significantly less busy in January compared to the summer months. The park's winter conditions, limited accessibility, and reduced services contribute to a quieter, more peaceful experience. While Yellowstone can receive over 900,000 visitors in July, January sees around 45,000 visitors. You can expect minimal crowds and a more intimate experience in Yellowstone in January. This quieter atmosphere is ideal for those seeking solitude, snow sports, wildlife watching, and the beauty of Yellowstone's snowy landscapes.
January is a great time to visit Yellowstone for smaller crowds.
What wildlife can you see in Yellowstone in January?
In January, Yellowstone's winter landscape provides excellent opportunities to observe various wildlife. Some wildlife you might see include:
Bison: These iconic animals are well-adapted to Yellowstone's harsh winters. You can often spot them plowing through deep snow with their large heads or resting in geothermal areas where the ground is warmer.
Elk: Elk are frequently seen in lower elevation areas, such as the Northern Range near Mammoth Hot Springs, where they graze on exposed vegetation.
Wolves: Winter is one of the best times to see wolves in Yellowstone. The Northern Range is particularly good for wolf watching, as packs are more easily spotted against the snow-covered landscape. Spend extra time watching for wolves near Blacktail Plateau, Petrified Tree, and Slough Creek.
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.
Foxes: Red foxes are occasionally spotted hunting in the snow, often diving headfirst into the drifts to catch small rodents.
Trumpeter Swans: These large, graceful birds can be seen in the park's rivers and lakes, particularly in areas where the water remains unfrozen due to geothermal activity.
Bald Eagles: Bald eagles can be seen near rivers and open water, where they hunt for fish or scavenge on carrion.
Winter wildlife watching in Yellowstone is a special experience, as the animals are more visible against the snowy backdrop, and the quieter environment allows for more peaceful observation and an easier time navigating pull-offs to stop and photograph.
8 Picturesque Things To Do in Yellowstone in January
Visiting Yellowstone in January offers an adventurous experience with activities that take full advantage of the park's winter wonderland. Since Yellowstone’s interior is closed to private vehicles during the winter months, you have to plan for alternative modes of transportation if you’re hoping to visit places like Old Faithful or Artist Point.
Snow coach and snowmobile tours are two of the most popular ways to see Yellowstone’s interior in the winter. A snowmobile tour is for you if you’re looking for an adventure or a different 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 both West Yellowstone 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 January!
Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is one of the most popular winter activities in Yellowstone. Guided snowmobile tours allow you to explore the park's snowy landscapes, including famous sights like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It's an exhilarating way to cover more ground 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. We highly recommend a snowmobile tour to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone! Pro tip: Wear ski goggles, wool socks, and a buff.
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.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing is a great way to explore Yellowstone in the winter. Yellowstone has miles of groomed and ungroomed trails perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These activities allow you to experience the park's serene, snow-covered backcountry up close. Trails range from easy to challenging, catering to all skill levels. You can hire a guide or rent/bring your own gear. For guides, we recommend Yellowstone Safari Company. To rent gear, check our Parks’ Fly Shop in Gardiner, MT, or Bear Den Ski Shop at Mammoth Hot Springs.
Wildlife Watching in Lamar Valley: Winter is an excellent time for wildlife watching in Yellowstone. With fewer visitors and snow-covered landscapes, animals like bison, elk, wolves, and coyotes are easier to spot. The Northern Range, near Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley, is particularly good for observing wildlife. Drive from Gardiner to Cooke City, spending extra time near Blacktail Pond, Petrified Tree, and Lamar Valley.
Exploring the Geysers and Hot Springs: The park's geothermal features take on a magical quality in winter, with steam rising dramatically in the cold air. Visiting the geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles is a must-do activity, and 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. There are also many cross-country skiing or snowshoe trails around Mammoth Hot Springs and the Upper Geyser Basin.
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 beautiful images.
Visiting Mammoth Hot Springs: The terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs are a picturesque sight in winter, with ice and snow mingling with the mineral-rich hot water. 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.
Enjoying the Winter Quiet: January in Yellowstone offers a rare chance to experience the park without the summer crowds. The tranquility and solitude of the winter landscape provide a peaceful escape, perfect for those who appreciate nature's quiet beauty. Visit the Old Faithful Visitor Center and Museum or the Albright Visitor Center near Mammoth Hot Springs to learn more about the park without the crowds.
January is a great time to visit Yellowstone, offering a different and often more intimate way to experience the park!
The Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
What It’s Like Driving in Yellowstone in January
In January, only the roads between the North Entrance (in Gardiner) and the Northeast Entrance (near Cooke City) are open for driving. This route offers access to key areas like Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley, but is not a complete circuit of the park, and access beyond these points typically requires traveling via snowcoach or snowmobile.
That said, we highly recommend driving the roads that are open in Yellowstone in January as you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Mammoth Hot Springs and watch for wildlife at your own pace. The park does 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.
Take in 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.
Watch for wildlife and enjoy the scenery as you drive. If you see cars pulled over on the side of the road, and especially if you see someone looking through a scope, safely park and ask if they see something nearby. Consider getting out of the car to walk the terraces at the Mammoth Hot Springs or eat lunch in a pull-off overlooking Lamar Valley.
Driving through Yellowstone in January 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 January
In January, 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 stunning snowy landscapes.
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 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 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 year-round. During winter months, 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 base for winter visitors. We might be biased—after all, we live here part-time—but Gardiner, MT, is our favorite home base for visiting Yellowstone in January.
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. West Yellowstone is a great choice if you’re looking to experience the park’s geothermal features or join guided tours.
These locations provide the best access to Yellowstone’s winter wonders while offering a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the snowy wilderness. We recommend spending 3-4 nights in Gardiner and three nights in West Yellowstone or the Old Faithful Snow Lodge to best enjoy everything Yellowstone offers in January.
Getting to Yellowstone in January
The easiest way to get to Yellowstone in January is to fly into Bozeman International Airport (BZN) and then rent a car to drive to Yellowstone’s North Entrance near Gardiner, MT. We recommend renting a vehicle so you can drive into the park from Gardiner to explore Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley.
However, driving in January 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, as unpredictable weather can cause road closures. We highly recommend avoiding early flights from Bozeman unless spending the night before your flight in a nearby hotel.
Packing for Yellowstone in January
Here's a comprehensive packing list for Yellowstone in January to help you stay warm, comfortable, and prepared for winter conditions.
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.
Nail Clippers/Nail File
For Lodging
Swimsuit: Particularly if you’re staying in Gardiner… so you can visit Yellowstone Hot Springs or Chico Hot Springs!
Comfortable Indoor Clothes: For relaxing in your hotel or lodge.
Slippers: Warm, comfortable slippers for indoor use.
This packing list should help you prepare for the cold, snowy conditions of Yellowstone in January. Remember that temperatures can vary, so layering is key to staying comfortable. 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’re probably fine 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!