Yellowstone in June: Weather, Wildlife, and the 6 Best Things to Do
June is a perfect time to visit Yellowstone National Park. The park's in full swing, all roads are open, weather is pleasant, bears and newborn wildlife are still visible, and trails are opening for the season. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone in June!
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What to Expect Visiting Yellowstone in June
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when visiting Yellowstone in June.
Weather: June’s weather is a significant draw. Daytime temperatures typically range from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for exploring the park’s geysers, hot springs, and waterfalls. The melting snow from the winter months means that rivers and waterfalls continue to be at some of their most powerful levels, providing spectacular views at sites like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. While occasional rain showers are possible, they only add to the park’s vibrant greenery and blooming wildflowers. June in Yellowstone does not see many snowstorms, though snow is always possible in the park’s higher elevation areas. June is a very pleasant month in Yellowstone.
Wildlife: June continues to be an amazing time of year for wildlife viewing in Yellowstone. Bison calves are still visible, and elk calves can be spotted in the meadows. Bears are also highly active in June, foraging in the valleys.
All Park Roads Are Open: Yellowstone’s prime season runs from Memorial Day weekend through October. June marks the first month of the year when all roads are open the entire month. This means you’ll be able to explore all of the park by self-driving no matter when you’re visiting in June! With all of the park’s roads open—and many of the park’s facilities fully open or opening soon, June provides ample opportunities to explore Yellowstone’s iconic sites without the peak crowds of later summer months.
It’s Busy, But Less Busy Than July: June officially marks the beginning of Yellowstone's busy season, but it’s not as crowded as July. Visitor numbers increase as the weather improves and schools let out for summer break, leading to more people on the roads, at attractions, and in lodging facilities. While you’ll encounter more crowds compared to earlier months, June can still offer a less crowded experience, especially if you visit in early June or during the weekdays.
Things to Do: Wildlife watching and photography are popular in June as baby animals and bears remain highly active and visible. Since June weather is typically mild, it’s a great time to hike to waterfalls like the Brink of the Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone; however, higher-elevation trails may still be snow-packed. All the roads in the park are open in June, allowing visitors to drive Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road and fully explore attractions like Old Faithful Geyser, Artist Point Overlook, the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Norris Geyser Basin, and much more.
When to Visit: We’re partial to early June (the first two weeks of June) before crowds are at their height and when bears and baby animals can still be seen in abundance in lower elevation areas like Tower Fall and Lamar Valley.
Driving through Yellowstone in June: The Grand Loop
June is the first month of the calendar year when all roads in the park are open all month long. So you can easily drive through Yellowstone in June, no matter when you visit.
Driving Yellowstone’s Grand Loop is the best way to experience the park's diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks. The Grand Loop is a 142-mile figure-eight-shaped road that connects all major attractions in Yellowstone, offering a convenient route for first-time visitors to see the park.
Starting in the north, you'll pass Mammoth Hot Springs, known for its travertine terraces, before heading east toward the Tower-Roosevelt area, a great spot for bear-watching in Yellowstone in June. Continuing along the Grand Loop, you’ll come across breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, including the famous Artist Point Overlook. The loop then heads west to Norris Geyser Basin, home of the Steamboat Geyser—the world’s tallest active geyser—before connecting with more of Yellowstone’s geyser basins.
Old Faithful, perhaps Yellowstone’s most iconic attraction, lies at the southwestern edge of the Grand Loop. On your way from Norris, you’ll pass the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring at Midway Geyser Basin. After watching Old Faithful erupt at the Upper Geyser Basin, you’ll continue to Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. As the sun goes down, make your way to Hayden or Lamar Valleys for more great wildlife watching.
Road conditions in June are generally favorable, with all park roads open for the season. However, traffic does begin to increase, particularly around popular spots like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, as more visitors arrive with the onset of summer. Despite this, early June still offers relatively manageable traffic compared to July and August, making it a great time to drive Grand Loop Road and take in Yellowstone’s grandeur.
Why June is the Perfect Month to Visit Yellowstone
Early June is my pick for the best time of year to visit Yellowstone for three reasons: (1) baby animals, (2) bears, and (3) all park roads—and most park facilities—are open.
In early June, many of Yellowstone's animals are still welcoming their young into the world, creating some of the most magical wildlife experiences you can imagine. It’s possible to spot bear cubs, wolf pups, bison calves, pronghorn fawns, and coyote pups, among others. It’s truly an incredible time of year in the park if you’re interested in wildlife watching. The best times to catch a glimpse of this wildlife activity are at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Early June also remains prime time for bear watching in Yellowstone. As the bears come out of hibernation in the spring, they’re eager to find food, making them more visible in the park. The lower elevations of the park begin to thaw, exposing fresh grasses, roots, and early berries that bears forage. You’ll often find grizzlies in areas like Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, and along the park’s rivers and streams during this time. Black bears are frequently seen in the Tower-Roosevelt area.
Finally, all park roads are open for the first time this year. Technically, all park roads open at the end of May, but Memorial Day weekend is busy in Yellowstone. Early June offers one final quieter experience before summer crowds arrive. The weather is comfortable, and wildlife is still out in abundance. It’s perfection! Early June is a magical window to experience Yellowstone at its best.
3 Reasons You May Not Want to Visit Yellowstone in June
June is one of the best months to visit Yellowstone, but your ideal trip will depend on your preferences and what you’re most looking forward to experiencing in the park. Here are three reasons you might not want to visit Yellowstone in June.
Residual Snow and Mud: Even though June marks the beginning of summer, many high-elevation trails will still be snow-packed and inaccessible. This can be disappointing for hikers hoping to explore Yellowstone’s alpine regions, as these trails don’t fully open until later in the summer. June is a good hiking month for lower-elevation trails but not the best month to hike some of Yellowstone’s phenomenal, higher-elevation trails like Dunraven Pass to Mount Washburn, which is the highest point in the park and offers amazing panoramic views.
Hiking Closures Due to Bear Activity: June is a prime time for bear activity, particularly around trails and areas where bears are foraging for food or tending to their cubs. This means that certain trails and backcountry areas may be closed to protect both visitors and wildlife, limiting access to some of the park's most popular hiking routes. These “bear management areas” are locations where grizzly bears are known to be seasonally, and certain recreational activities will be limited during those seasons to reduce encounters between bears and humans. Review current bear management areas and closures in Yellowstone here.
Big Increase in Crowds: June brings a significant increase in visitors compared to the quieter spring months. The start of the summer vacation season means more traffic on the roads, fuller parking lots, and longer wait times at popular attractions. With the influx of visitors, June is also one of the more expensive months for lodging in and around Yellowstone. You’ll need to book well in advance and be prepared for traffic congestion, particularly midday near the park’s biggest attractions.
Yellowstone Weather in June
Daytime temperatures in June typically range from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for exploring the park. While occasional rain showers are possible, they only add to the park’s vibrant greenery and blooming wildflowers. June in Yellowstone does not see many days of snowfall, though snow is always possible in the park’s higher elevation areas and there generally will be snow still on high-elevation trails in June.
Monthly averages from NPS.gov.
Is Yellowstone busy in June?
June is the official start of Yellowstone's busy season. Visitor numbers increase as the weather improves and schools let out for summer break, leading to more people on the roads, at attractions, and in lodging facilities. In 2023, for example, Yellowstone saw about 850,000 visitors in June, compared to around 450,000 in May and over 950,000 in July. Early June is generally less than busy than later in the month.
Where to See Bears in Yellowstone in June
Here are seven of the best places to see bears, wolves, bison, and other wildlife in Yellowstone in June.
Lamar Valley: Lamar Valley is one of the most renowned wildlife-watching spots in Yellowstone. June is an ideal time to visit because the valley’s lush green meadows attract large herds of bison and elk, which in turn draw predators like wolves and grizzly bears. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to spot these animals, and Lamar Valley’s expansive vistas make it easier to scan for wildlife. Look for other wildlife watchers with spotting scopes set up along the roadside. Chances are, there is something nearby!
Hayden Valley: Located near Canyon Village, Hayden Valley is another prime location for wildlife viewing in June. As the snow melts, this valley becomes a hotspot for bison, some of which recently gave birth to calves. Hayden Valley also offers a good opportunity to see other animals like elk, coyotes, and even wolves, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Tower-Roosevelt to Tower Fall: This area is particularly famous for black bear sightings. In June, black bears are often seen foraging along the roadsides or in the trees near Tower Fall. The lower elevation of the Tower-Roosevelt area means that it thaws earlier in the season, providing bears with early access to food sources like berries and roots. The area’s mix of open meadows and forested slopes creates ideal habitats for spotting black bears.
Slough Creek: Slough Creek, on the way to Lamar Valley, is a popular place for wolf-watching in Yellowstone. In June, the resident wolf packs are highly active, and the wolf pups are sometimes visible. The open meadows of Slough Creek provide clear views, making it easier to spot wolves as they hunt or play.
Mammoth Hot Springs: The drive from Gardiner to Mammoth Hot Springs is a great place to see elk and pronghorn antelope. Driving from Mammoth to the Tower-Roosevelt area is also good for occasional sightings of black bears and red foxes, especially in the cooler hours of the day.
Gibbon Meadows: Located between Norris Geyser Basin and Madison Junction, Gibbon Meadows is a lesser-known spot for wildlife watching in June. The meadows attract a variety of animals, including bison, elk, and the occasional bear. The Gibbon River running through the meadows is also a draw for animals looking to drink or fish. The relatively flat terrain provides good visibility, and because it’s not as crowded as other areas, it can offer a more serene wildlife-watching experience. Look for elk early in the morning at Gibbon Meadows.
East Entrance near Fishing Bridge: Grizzly bears are commonly spotted along the drive between Tower Fall and Canyon Village, as well as on Yellowstone’s East Entrance Road near Fishing Bridge.
When engaging in wildlife watching in Yellowstone, always be respectful of the wildlife and other visitors by (1) Keeping a safe distance from ALL wildlife and avoiding loud noises and (2) Parking off the road—fully to the side of white lines—to get out of the way of traffic before taking photos or watching wildlife.
6 of the Best Things To Do in Yellowstone in June
These are some of the best things to do in Yellowstone in June.
Drive Grand Loop Road: Yellowstone's Grand Loop is an approximately 142-mile scenic drive through the park's most iconic landscapes and attractions. It’s a must-do when visiting in June! Stop at whichever attractions excite you most along the way, such as the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, the Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic Spring), the Upper Geyser Basin (Old Faithful), Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (Artist Point Overlook).
Day Hikes, Boardwalk Trails, & Overlooks: There are more than 15 miles of boardwalk trails and about 1000 miles of hiking trails to explore throughout Yellowstone—and that doesn’t even count the incredible overlooks, parking areas, and picnic spots! There’s a lot to see by car and even more to explore on foot. Consider the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the Grand Prismatic Overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail, Lone Star Geyser Trail, and Storm Point Loop.
Wildlife Watching: Wildlife watching in Yellowstone is mesmerizing! Use the above list to look for wildlife during your trip. It’s one of the best things to do in the park in June.
Fishing in Yellowstone: Fishing season in the park is from sunrise to sunset on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through October 31st. (Beginning November 2024, areas along the Madison and Gardiner Rivers will be accessible year-round. Learn more here.) It’s encouraged to purchase a required fishing permit online before arriving.
Boating and Kayaking on Yellowstone Lake: Boating season in the park is from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through October 31st. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and other non-motorized boats are allowed on all lakes in Yellowstone except Sylvan Lake, Eleanor Lake, Twin Lakes, and Beach Springs Lagoon. Learn more here.
Photographing Wildflower Blooms: June is a fantastic time to photograph the park’s wildflowers as they begin to bloom in full color. Areas like Lamar Valley, Yellowstone Lake’s shorelines, and the park’s meadows are great places to look for wildflowers.
The boardwalk trail at West Thumb Geyser Basin on the shore of Yellowstone Lake.
Where to Stay to Visit Yellowstone in June
When visiting Yellowstone in June, you can either stay in a town near one of Yellowstone’s entrances or stay inside the park near one of Yellowstone’s attractions. Both have their pros and cons. Staying in a town near one of Yellowstone’s entrances is better for more/cheaper lodging options and access to amenities like restaurants, shopping, coffee shops, grocery stores, and more. Staying inside the park is better for convenience, namely that you’ll have less distance to travel to Yellowstone’s biggest attractions.
Here are our top recommendations for where to stay in Yellowstone in June:
Stay in Canyon Village or the Old Faithful Area for the best location and shortest drives to the park’s top attractions. (We’re partial to the centrally-located Canyon Village, but the Old Faithful area has a variety of lodging options and offers convenient access to the Old Faithful Geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring.)
Stay in Gardiner, MT, or Mammoth Hot Springs for convenient access to Yellowstone’s Northern Range, which offers much of the best wildlife watching in Yellowstone and beautiful mountain scenery.
Stay in West Yellowstone for convenient access to the park’s main geyser and thermal areas and for amenities, including maximum dining, lodging, and shopping options.
For the best of all worlds, spend three nights at Canyon Village and three nights in Gardiner. This is our personal pick for where to stay in Yellowstone during a week-long trip.
The above chart shows in-park lodging opening and closing dates. For 2025, Lake Yellowstone Hotel will be the last to open at the end of June. Lake Lodge Cabins and Roosevelt Lodge also open in June.
Packing for Yellowstone in June
Here are some notes to get you started packing for Yellowstone in June.
Layered Clothing: While June marks the beginning of summer, temperatures in Yellowstone can still be quite variable, especially at higher elevations. Pack layers to accommodate for cold mornings and warm afternoons. Include thermal base layers, a warm fleece or jacket, and lighter clothing for daytime. Even in June, temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Waterproof Gear: June can bring a mix of weather conditions, including rain and occasional thunderstorms. Consider packing a waterproof jacket for unexpected showers. Waterproof gear will also protect your equipment and keep you comfortable while exploring the park.
Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen with high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun while hiking or driving through the park.
Bug Protection: As the weather warms up, insects like mosquitoes and flies become more active. Bring insect repellent, and consider packing long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimize bites, especially if you plan to hike in areas with standing water or dense vegetation.
Footwear: June can still present some muddy or uneven terrain, especially on trails where snow is melting. Pack sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction to handle varying trail conditions. Waterproof footwear can also be beneficial for wet or muddy paths.
Binoculars and Camera Gear: With wildlife active and the scenery lush and green, June is a great month for wildlife watching and photography. Pack binoculars for spotting animals and a camera with a zoom lens to capture distant wildlife and scenic vistas.
Plan Your Trip to Yellowstone National Park
Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries for each season, ensure you don’t miss out on the best things to do and see in Yellowstone year-round. Crafted from personal experience over 9 years and 10 trips (& counting), our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Take the overwhelm out of planning a vacation to one of America’s largest national parks and make the most of your visit with our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide.
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