Yellowstone in October: Weather, Wildlife, and Best Things to Do

October is a great time to visit Yellowstone, offering a mostly full park experience but with significantly fewer crowds. The cooler temperatures and fall colors create a beautiful backdrop for exploring the park’s well-known sights like Lamar Valley and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone in October, from weather and wildlife to the best things to do!

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What to Expect Visiting Yellowstone in October

Here’s an overview of what to expect when visiting Yellowstone in October.

Fall Temperatures: October in Yellowstone brings cooler temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 30°F to 50°F and nighttime lows often below freezing, averaging 20°F to 30°F. Higher elevations tend to be colder, and temperatures can fluctuate rapidly throughout the day. You may experience frost in the mornings and slightly warmer afternoons, especially in the lower valleys. Layers are essential for comfort, including base layers, fleece or wool, and a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Overall, the weather in October makes for a chilly but scenic experience, with a mix of fall and early winter conditions.
Snow is Possible: Expect occasional snowfall throughout the month, particularly in mid to late October. Although colder, this makes for a beautiful backdrop as you may encounter snow-capped peaks, which provide excellent photo opportunities.
It’s The Last Month of Prime Season: In October, most park roads and attractions are still open, allowing access to everything Yellowstone offers in one trip, but with significantly smaller crowds than other peak months. However, some lodging and facilities are beginning to close in October.
Temps Are Good For Hiking: October is a great month to hike in Yellowstone. The weather is ideal, fewer crowds make it easier to secure parking at popular trailheads, and the fall foliage along trails makes it one of the best times to experience Yellowstone on foot.
Ek Rut: September and October are the best months to see elk in Yellowstone. During the elk rut—elk mating season—bull elk become more active and visible as they compete for the attention of females, known as cows. In October, you can hear the bull elk’s bugling, a high-pitched, echoing call that establishes dominance, attracts cows, and warns off rival males.

Is Yellowstone busy in October?

Crowds thin considerably in October compared to the busy summer months, making it one of the quieter times of the year to visit. The park is not empty, as fall colors, hiking, and wildlife attract visitors, but overall traffic and congestion at popular sites like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone are reduced, especially as the month progresses.

Overall, October is an excellent time to visit Yellowstone for those seeking fewer crowds while still having full access to the park’s roads and attractions. Although some lodges and facilities begin closing for the season, park roads remain open through October 31st, weather permitting. Major highlights like Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lamar and Hayden Valleys, and West Thumb Geyser Basin also remain accessible in October, offering a unique “prime season” experience with fewer visitors compared to other peak months.

October offers a prime park experience with significantly fewer visitors, making it one of the best months to visit Yellowstone.

Driving through Yellowstone in October

Driving is one of the best ways to experience Yellowstone in October. Road conditions in October are generally favorable, with all park roads open (weather permitting). Snow is possible in Yellowstone in October, particularly around high-elevation areas of the park like Dunraven Pass or East Entrance Road. It’s helpful to check park conditions ahead of time here.

The best route for Yellowstone self-driving is the “Grand Loop,” a 142-mile figure-eight-shaped road that connects all major attractions in Yellowstone.

Starting in the north, you'll pass Mammoth Hot Springs before heading east toward the scenic Tower-Roosevelt area. From here, you can detour to Lamar Valley for some of the best wildlife-watching in Yellowstone or continue along the Grand Loop to breathtaking views of Dunraven Pass and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. From Canyon Village, you can stay straight toward Hayden Valley or head west to Norris Geyser Basin, home of the world’s tallest active geyser.

Old Faithful, perhaps Yellowstone’s most iconic attraction, lies at the southwestern edge of the Grand Loop. On your way there from Norris, you’ll pass the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring at Midway Geyser Basin. Hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook (from the Fairy Falls Trail) for a bird’s eye view, then walk the boardwalks at the Midway Geyser Basin for a closer look.

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 great wildlife watching.

6 Things to Do in Yellowstone in October

Here are six of the best things to do in Yellowstone in October.

Scenic Driving: The Grand Loop is a must-drive when visiting Yellowstone in October! However, if you’re looking for more remote but similarly scenic areas of the park, drive from Lake Village to Yellowstone’s East Entrance, Tower-Roosevelt to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance, and Firehole Canyon Drive near Madison Junction. Scenic drives are a must-do this time of year, as they’re the best way to see multiple park attractions, and fall colors with snow-dusted peaks make for stunning photographs.
Explore Yellowstone’s Thermal Features: The quieter crowds make October a great time to explore thermal features in Yellowstone, including Old Faithful Geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, Norris Geyser Basin, Biscuit Basin, and much more. Drive from Norris Geyser Basin to West Thumb Geyser Basin, exploring as many overlooks and short boardwalk trails as you’d like.
Hiking: There are more than 15 miles of boardwalk trails and about 1000 miles of hiking trails throughout Yellowstone. With cooler temperatures and changing landscapes, October is a great time to hike one—or many!—of Yellowstone’s scenic trails. Hiking lower elevation trails, like those around Old Faithful and Lamar Valley, offer great opportunities to enjoy the park on foot without the summer crowds. Higher-elevation trails are also beautiful this time of year, though some may have snow limitations or temporary wildlife closures.
Wildlife Watching: Wildlife watching is one of the best activities in October, with the elk rut still ongoing and the possibility of spotting bison, wolves, pronghorn, and even bears as they prepare for hibernation. Driving the scenic Lamar Valley is a favorite October activity for its combination of wildlife, landscapes, and smaller crowds.
Photography: Photography is spectacular in October, with crisp air, vibrant fall foliage, and snow-covered mountains.
Soak in Yellowstone Hot Springs: While swimming in hot springs inside the park is prohibited, the nearby “Yellowstone Hot Springs,” located just outside the park near Gardiner, MT, offers a relaxing opportunity to soak in naturally heated water. The cool fall air makes this warm pool even more inviting. It’s a must-do in October!

Artist Point Overlook near Canyon Village is accessible off Grand Loop Road.

October Wildlife Watching

Wildlife watching is one of the best things to do in Yellowstone in October, with the elk rut still ongoing and the possibility of spotting bison, pronghorn, and bears as they prepare for hibernation. Here’s some wildlife to look for in October.

Elk: October is a great month to see elk in Yellowstone. During the elk rut—elk mating season—bull elk become more active and visible as they compete for the attention of females, known as cows. The most iconic behavior during this time is the bull elk’s bugling, a high-pitched, echoing call that establishes dominance, attracts cows, and warns off rival males. Bull elk also spar with other males at this time, locking antlers and pushing against each other to assert dominance and win the right to mate. Areas like Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley are the best places to see elk during the fall rut. Like the bison rut in August, visitors should exercise caution and keep a safe distance, as bull elk can be more aggressive and unpredictable during this time.
Pronghorn: The pronghorn rut also continues in October. Look in the wide open meadows along Yellowstone’s northern range. The pronghorn antelope’s colors are spectacular this time of year, but even more impressive is their speed. Bucks become territorial and compete for the attention of does by engaging in high-speed chases, making the pronghorn rut the best time of year to see the speed of North America’s fastest animal.
Grizzly Bears: In October, female grizzlies search for a den, while male grizzlies scavenge carcasses, dig for roots, and feed on high-energy food sources in preparation for hibernation. Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, and the northern part of the park are common areas where visitors may spot grizzlies before they retreat to their dens for the winter, usually by November.
Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, and Hawks: Bald eagles, golden eagles, and red-tail hawks can be seen soaring above Yellowstone’s valleys, particularly in Lamar and Hayden Valleys. Waterfowl like ducks, geese, and swans can be found on lakes and rivers, especially around Yellowstone Lake, though some species begin migrating toward the end of the month. Look for ravens, which are highly intelligent and often seen scavenging near geyser basins or around animal kills, particularly where wolves or bears are active.
Bison: Bison can be seen throughout Yellowstone, particularly in Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley, where they graze and prepare for winter. The bison rut has largely concluded by October, but these massive animals remain active, often gathering in large herds as they travel to lower elevations. Bison begin growing thick coats in the fall, giving them a rugged appearance as they prepare to endure Yellowstone’s harsh winter.
Coyotes: Coyotes are one of the most adaptable animals in Yellowstone, and they can be spotted in October, particularly in Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. Like wolves, coyotes are active hunters, preying on small mammals such as ground squirrels, voles, and rabbits, as well as scavenging on carcasses left by other predators. They can be spotted alone or in small packs, often moving through the meadows and grasslands in search of food. Coyotes are highly vocal, and you may hear their distinctive yipping and howling, especially in the early morning or evening. They are often seen near roads or trails, making them easier to spot than more elusive predators like wolves or foxes.
Bighorn Sheep: October is a good time to see bighorn sheep, as the males (rams) begin gearing up for their rut season in November, often seen engaging in sparring matches. Bighorn sheep tend to stay in higher elevations, but as winter approaches, they may be spotted moving to lower, more accessible areas in search of food. In the summer, bighorn sheep can be spotted along Dunraven Pass on the slopes of Mount Washburn. For winter, they move to lower-elevation areas along the Yellowstone, Lamar, and Gardner Rivers.

Always observe wildlife from a safe distance, using binoculars or a spotting scope for a closer view. Stay on designated trails and follow park guidelines to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals.

7 Best Trails to Hike in Yellowstone in October

October is still a great time of year to hike in Yellowstone. The weather is cool, and fewer crowds make it easier to secure parking at popular trailheads.

Lower-elevation trails are generally still snow-free, while you may need to navigate snow—or bring micro spikes—for summit hiking on higher-elevation trails. In October, snow starts to accumulate in these higher-elevation areas, making proper shoes and extra layers helpful. (Boot spikes or micro spikes attach to your boots to provide extra grip on packed snow or icy sections of the trail.)

Here are 7 great hikes to consider in Yellowstone in October.

Fairy Falls Trail: October is a great time to hike Fairy Falls with fewer crowds. The trail is lower in elevation, so it’s less likely to be affected by snow. You’ll get a great birds-eye view of the Grand Prismatic Spring from an overlook, so we recommend saving this hike for the warmest, calmest, and sunniest afternoon of your trip for the best views.
Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail: This is a moderate 5-mile loop near Canyon Village and is one of the best hikes in Yellowstone. Along the way, you’ll pass Clear Lake, an alpine lake with clear waters and peaceful surroundings, and Ribbon Lake, a quieter lake offering a more secluded experience. Hike counterclockwise, and don’t forget to stop at the Artist Point Overlook for one of the best views in the park.
Brink of the Lower Falls: The Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, also located near Canyon Village, is a short but strenuous hike with beautiful forested areas and dramatic vistas of the Yellowstone Canyon. This roughly half-mile round-trip trail takes hikers to a close-up viewpoint of the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. The return climb can be strenuous, so although a short hike, be prepared for a bit of a workout on this one!
Avalanche Peak Trail: Starting from East Entrance Road, this trail ascends steeply to reach Avalanche Peak, where the summit provides breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Although this 4.5-mile trail is best hiked from mid-July through September, reaching the summit in October is still possible, especially if you’re prepared with sturdy shoes or microspikes. You’ll want extra layers for the wind at the summit of Avalanche Peak, and check trail conditions ahead of time as this trail may temporarily close due to bear activity.
Dunraven Pass to Mount Washburn – This is a classic Yellowstone hike with panoramic views. The trail to Mount Washburn is often accessible through October, providing stunning views of fall colors across the valleys below the summit. Wear sturdy shoes, and consider bringing microspikes, as you may encounter snow, mud, or ice at the summit. And pack extra layers for windchill at the top.
Lamar Valley Trail or Trout Lake Loop – Lamar Valley isn’t just great for wildlife watching! In October, the cottonwoods and aspens turn beautiful shades of yellow and gold. Cooler temperatures make for comfortable hiking, and you’ll have a good chance of spotting wildlife like bison and elk.
Elephant Back Mountain Trail – Located near Yellowstone Lake, this approximately 4-mile trail provides fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s a moderate hike and remains mostly snow-free in October (though snow is certainly possible as the month progresses), making it a good choice for a moderate hike with rewarding views.

Stay “Bear Aware” in October

Bears are active in October as they prepare for hibernation. Because of this, some trails and areas may temporarily close due to bear activity, so it’s important to check trail signs upon arrival at trailheads.

It’s also essential to stay “bear-aware” when hiking in Yellowstone, especially with fewer people on the trails. Yellowstone hiking is great—and don’t let the bears deter you from experiencing this side of the park—but follow park guidelines, stay on trails, and check recent trail activity before heading out.

Use the following tips to help you stay safe while exploring Yellowstone on foot.

Buy or rent bear spray once you get to Yellowstone—and keep it with you at all times.
Hike in groups of 4 or more when possible. (Meet up with other hikers at trailheads.)
Talk or sing while hiking. (It’s generally better to talk or sing than it is to play music.)
Say, “Hey Bear!” when rounding blind corners to avoid surprising wildlife.
Avoid having a lot of food or scents in hiking or camping bags.
Check trail signs for sightings before beginning a hike. (And follow trail closure signs, especially in bear management areas.)
If you encounter a bear, back away slowly. Don’t Run.
Don’t leave trash, food, or scented items unattended. Always use park bins / bear-resistant bins.

What to Wear in Yellowstone in October

What to Wear Hiking in Yellowstone in October: When hiking in Yellowstone in October, dress in layers to handle the variable weather. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, followed by an insulating mid-layer like a fleece or down jacket. An outer layer that is windproof and waterproof is helpful, as you may encounter rain, snow, and wind at higher elevations. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, and consider carrying microspikes in case you come across icy or slippery sections of the trail. A hat, gloves, and buff or neck gaiter can help with the cold, especially in the mornings and at higher elevations. Bring extra socks in case your feet get wet. Don’t forget water and bear spray—and download an offline trail map before you go.

What to Wear Camping in Yellowstone in October: Camping in October can be chilly, so be prepared with warm clothing. Wear a good base layer to sleep in, such as thermal underwear, and have a warm, insulated jacket for the colder evenings and mornings. A beanie, gloves, and thick wool socks are essential to keep you warm in your sleeping bag at night. During the day, dress in layers that you can adjust depending on the weather. Bring a waterproof jacket and pants in case of rain or snow, and make sure your footwear is insulated and waterproof. Around the campsite, it’s helpful to have a pair of gloves. Lastly, pack a warm sleeping bag rated for low temperatures and a sleeping pad to insulate you from the cold ground.

What to Wear for Scenic Driving and Short Exploration: If you're spending most of your time driving through the park and making short stops, you still need to dress warmly but prioritize layers. Keep a fleece or insulated jacket and a waterproof outer layer nearby for quick explorations. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes or boots for short walks or to explore geyser basins, where boardwalks can sometimes be icy. Gloves, a hat, and a scarf or neck gaiter will help keep you warm earlier in the morning or later in the evening. And make sure to have sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare on bright, sunny days, especially when snow is on the ground.

What to Wear for Wildlife Watching: Wildlife watching means standing or sitting in colder conditions for extended periods, so warmth and comfort are key. Start with a thermal base layer to retain heat and an insulated jacket to protect against the cold. Since early mornings and evenings are prime times for wildlife sightings, wearing gloves, a beanie, and warm socks is helpful—gloves especially help operate binoculars and spotting scopes comfortably. Opt for waterproof, insulated boots, as you may be standing in wet or snowy areas for long stretches of time. A windproof and waterproof outer layer will help block the elements. Lastly, pack a thermos with a hot drink, and consider bringing a portable stool or blanket to sit on while watching for animals like wolves and bears.

FAQs

Is October a good time to visit Yellowstone?

October is an excellent time to visit Yellowstone for those seeking fewer crowds while still having full access to the park’s roads and attractions. Although some lodges and facilities begin closing for the season, all park roads typically remain open through October 31st, weather permitting. Major highlights like Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lamar and Hayden Valleys, and West Thumb Geyser Basin also remain accessible in October, offering a unique “prime season” experience with fewer visitors compared to other peak months.

Does it snow in Yellowstone in October?

October begins bringing more frequent snowstorms in Yellowstone, with an average of 3-5 inches received over 2-4 days. (Higher elevations like Dunraven Pass and Beartooth Pass may see more accumulation.) Early in the month, snowfall is less frequent and melts quickly, but by mid to late October, snow begins to stick and impact trail access, especially at higher altitudes, such as Mount Washburn or Avalanche Peak.

Are bears visible in Yellowstone in October?

October is generally the last month bears are visible in Yellowstone before entering hibernation. During this month, female grizzlies search for a den, while male grizzlies scavenge carcasses, dig for roots, and feed on whitebark pine nuts or other high-energy food sources in preparation for hibernation. Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, and the northern part of the park are common areas where visitors may spot bears before they retreat to their dens for the winter, usually by mid-November.

What is the best time of day to see wildlife in Yellowstone in October?

Early morning and late evening are the best times to see wildlife in October, as animals are most active around dawn and dusk.

What time does it get dark in Yellowstone in October?

In early October, it gets dark around 7:00 PM, but by late October, sunset is closer to 6:10 PM.

What time is sunrise in Yellowstone in October?

Sunrise occurs between 7:15 AM in early October and around 7:55 AM by late October.

Is everything open in Yellowstone in October?

No, many facilities and lodging options close in October, and some services begin closing for the season as well. However, all roads are open through October 31st, weather permitting, and many hikes continue to be fully accessible as well.

Can I camp in Yellowstone in October?

Camping is available in Yellowstone in October, but your options are limited. Bridge Bay, Grant Village, Indian Creek, and Canyon Campgrounds generally close in September. Fishing Bridge RV Park, Madison Campground, Lewis Lake, and Slough Creek generally close by mid-October. Mammoth Campground is typically open throughout the month.

What’s the best way to see Yellowstone in October with only a few days?

If you only have a few days in Yellowstone, focus on driving the Grand Loop Road, visiting popular attractions like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and watching for wildlife in Lamar and Hayden Valleys. Check out our Yellowstone Travel Guide for detailed 1 and 2-day Yellowstone itineraries!

Where’s the best place to stay in Yellowstone in October?

Canyon Lodge and Old Faithful Snow Lodge are central locations for exploring Yellowstone. Both close in late October, making them two of the best places to stay in Yellowstone throughout the month. We also recommend staying in a town near one of Yellowstone’s entrances, such as Gardiner, MT, or West Yellowstone, MT. These towns are great for more/cheaper lodging options and access to amenities like restaurants, shopping, coffee shops, grocery stores, and more. We recommend Mammoth Hot Springs or Gardiner, MT, for close proximity to the elk rut and best places for wildlife watching in Yellowstone.

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Happy Travels!