Yellowstone in September: Weather, Wildlife, and 7 Fall Hikes
September in Yellowstone is a beautiful time of year in the park. Most facilities, lodges, restaurants, and park services stay open through September, but summer crowds thin out, the park becomes quieter, and cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable. Animals like elk and pronghorn are active in September for their respective mating seasons, and bears are also visible as they forage in preparation for hibernation. Because fall crowds start to dissipate, you’ll have an easier time finding parking at popular attractions and trailheads, and lodging prices tend to drop compared to peak summer months, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone in September, from weather and wildlife to the best things to do.
What to Expect Visiting Yellowstone in September
Here’s an overview of what to expect when visiting Yellowstone in September.
Fall Weather Arrives: In September, Yellowstone’s weather shifts towards fall, bringing cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. Daytime highs often reach the 60s°F (15-20°C), while nights can drop to the 30s°F (1-4°C), sometimes even dipping below freezing at higher elevations. Snow is possible later in the month, particularly in high-elevation areas, so it’s important to be prepared for a mix of conditions. Rain is common, and you’ll see fewer hot, sunny days than in the summer, making September a pleasant time to explore the park’s landscapes without the heat—or crowds—of mid-summer.
It’s (Still) Prime Season, But With (Mostly) Smaller Crowds: From the end of May through October 31st, Yellowstone is in its “prime season”. Most park roads, lodges, dining options, and facilities are open during this time, allowing full access to the park's most popular attractions. September is a great month to visit and explore everything Yellowstone offers in one trip, as it’s still prime season but with smaller crowds than in summer months. (Note: The Roosevelt Lodge generally closes at the beginning of September, and Labor Day weekend will still be busy in the park!)
You Can Visit Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in One Trip: Early September is my pick for the best time of year to visit Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in one trip. This is because the road between the parks is still open, but peak tourism season has ended. Temperatures are perfect for hiking at this time, and there’s a chance you’ll see a bit of snow-capping on the Teton mountains while leaves are changing—the contrast is absolutely spectacular.
Temps Are Great For Hiking: Many people consider September the best month to hike in Yellowstone. The weather is ideal, fewer crowds make it easier to secure parking at popular trailheads, and snow generally hasn’t started closing trails like it will later in the season. September’s crisp air, changing fall foliage, and quieter paths make it one of the best times of year to experience Yellowstone on foot.
Ek and Pronghorn Ruts: September is one of 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 September, you can hear the bull elk’s bugling, a high-pitched, echoing call that establishes dominance, attracts cows, and warns off rival males. It’s a very neat thing to hear and witness in Yellowstone! Head to the Mammoth Hot Springs area to see this in September and October.
Bull elk bugling at Mammoth Hot Springs.
Driving through Yellowstone in September: The “Grand Loop”
Driving is one of the best ways to experience Yellowstone in September. The Grand Loop is a 142-mile figure-eight-shaped road that connects all major attractions in Yellowstone, offering a convenient route for visitors to see the park.
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, 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. Walk the boardwalks at the Midway Geyser Basin, then enjoy the Grand Prismatic Overlook from the Fairy Falls Trail for a bird’s eye view.
After watching Old Faithful erupt at the Upper Geyser Basin, follow the Grand Loop to Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. The hour before sunset, make your way to Hayden or Lamar Valleys for great wildlife watching.
Road conditions in September are generally favorable, with all park roads open for the season. However, traffic can still be heavy in Yellowstone in September, particularly around popular spots and throughout Labor Day weekend.
Is Yellowstone busy in September?
Yellowstone is less crowded in September than in the peak summer months, but it’s still a popular time to visit. Early in the month, you’ll encounter more visitors, especially around Labor Day weekend, but after that, the crowds begin to thin out significantly. While popular spots like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring still draw people, you’ll notice shorter wait times, easier parking, and more opportunities to enjoy Yellowstone's beauty without the summer rush.
Early September is still a very popular time of year to visit Yellowstone, but crowds begin to dissipate as the month progresses.
7 Things to Do in Yellowstone in September
Here are 7 great things to do in Yellowstone in September.
Drive through Yellowstone: Yellowstone's Grand Loop is an approximately 142-mile scenic drive through Yellowstone’s most iconic landscapes and attractions. It’s a must-do when visiting Yellowstone in September! 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.
Drive the nearby Beartooth Highway: Beartooth Highway is often considered one of the most scenic drives in America. The highway, which climbs to almost 11,000 feet, takes you through stunning mountain views, alpine lakes, and fall colors as the leaves begin to change. September is a great time to drive Beartooth Highway, with fewer crowds and a good chance of seeing snow-capped peaks along the way. However, the weather can change quickly at this high altitude, and there’s always a chance of snow or icy conditions, especially in September. It’s a good idea to check conditions before heading past Cooke City, near Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance, to follow Beartooth Highway to Red Lodge, MT.
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, September is a great time to hike one—or many—of Yellowstone’s scenic trails.
Wildlife Watching: September is prime time to witness elk during their mating season. Listen for the bugling of bull elk in areas like Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley. As bears prepare for hibernation, they are also active, foraging along rivers and in valleys. Lamar Valley and the East Entrance Road near Fishing Bridge are good spots to look for bears in September.
Photograph the Fall Colors: September brings the first signs of fall, with aspen and cottonwood trees turning golden, especially in areas like Lamar Valley and along the Yellowstone River. While Yellowstone’s fall foliage might not be as famous as other regions, the park still offers beautiful displays of color. Take a leisurely drive through areas like the East Entrance Road or Northeast Entrance Road to see golden aspens and vibrant meadows.
Fly Fishing: September is a good month for fly fishing in Yellowstone, with the Yellowstone River and Slough Creek being popular spots for anglers due to the increased fish activity. For gear, visitors can find equipment and licenses at in-park shops like those in Mammoth and Fishing Bridge or in nearby towns such as West Yellowstone and Gardiner.
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 September!
Visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in September
Early September is my pick for the best time of year to visit Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in one trip. This is because the road between the parks is still open, but peak tourism season has ended. Temperatures are great for hiking at this time—Grand Teton is a magical place to explore on foot!—and there’s a chance you’ll get to see a bit of snow-capping on the Teton mountains, which is spectacular.
September as a whole is a great time to visit both parks, as the Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle is generally open through September. However, for the first week of September, the shuttle is still open early in the morning, which is ideal for hiking in Grand Teton National Park. (Around September 8th, shuttle hours change from 7am-7pm to 10am-4pm.) Use the shuttle to access trailheads across Jenny Lake and eliminate a 2-mile each-way trek to the Cascade Canyon, Inspiration Point, and Hidden Falls trailheads, some of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park.
How to Avoid Labor Day Crowds in Yellowstone
Yellowstone sees reduced crowds in September, but much of this happens later in the month. Labor Day weekend still draws huge crowds to the park, so avoiding traffic in early September requires some strategy. To navigate peak congestion, consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening when crowds are thinner. Exploring lesser-known areas or less popular trails can also provide a more serene experience. Here are three tips to help you avoid crowds in Yellowstone in September.
Start Early: Aim to be on the road by sunrise for wildlife watching and at the most popular attractions—like Artist Point, Old Faithful, and the Grand Prismatic Spring—before 9AM (or after 5PM). Yellowstone’s most popular attractions are much quieter early in the morning and are their most crowded between 10AM and 4PM. RTL Tip: The West Thumb Geyser Basin and Artist Point Overlook are beautiful in sunrise or early morning light.
Stay Out Late: You can also plan to explore Yellowstone’s busiest sites in the evening. After 5PM, many visitors leave the park or settle into their accommodations, making the late afternoon and early evening another great time to visit popular attractions. RTL Tip: The hour before sunset is a stunning time to walk the Grand Prismatic Spring boardwalks or Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces.
Drive Beyond Yellowstone’s Grand Loop: Yellowstone’s Grand Loop is a must-do in September. But for a reprieve from the crowds, detour from the Grand Loop to more remote but similarly scenic areas of the park, including the drive from Lake Village to Yellowstone’s East Entrance, from Tower-Roosevelt to Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance, and along Firehole Canyon Drive near Madison Junction.
Driving through Lamar Valley on the way to Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance.
Wildlife Watching in September
Here are some wildlife events happening in Yellowstone in September.
Elk Rut (Mammoth Hot Springs): September 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. In Yellowstone, 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 Rut: The pronghorn rut also takes place in Yellowstone in September. 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 in September the best time of year to see the speed of North America’s fastest animal.
Hawks and Eagles Migrate: Migratory hawks and eagles begin their winter travels south and west, soaring over mountaintops like Mount Washburn.
Bears Prepare for Hibernation: As bears prepare for hibernation, they are more active, foraging along rivers and valleys. Lamar Valley and the East Entrance Road near Fishing Bridge are good spots to look for bears in September.
7 Amazing Fall Hikes in Yellowstone
Many people consider September to be the best month to hike in Yellowstone. The weather is ideal, fewer crowds make it easier to secure parking at popular trailheads, and snow generally hasn’t started closing trails like it will later in the season. September’s crisp air, changing fall foliage, and quieter paths make it one of the best times to experience Yellowstone’s backcountry. Here are seven amazing fall hikes to consider.
Grand Prismatic Overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail: September is a great time to hike Fairy Falls as the crowds thin out, especially after Labor Day. The trail is lower in elevation, so snow’s less likely to affect it. You’ll also get a great bird’s-eye view of the Grand Prismatic Spring from an overlook, and if you want to continue following the trail, waterfalls are still running strong after the summer months. We recommend saving this hike for the warmest, calmest, sunniest afternoon of your trip when Yellowstone’s most colorful attraction is at its absolute best.
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: If you’re looking for a moderately challenging hike in Yellowstone, consider Avalanche Peak. Starting from the East Entrance Road, this trail ascends steeply to reach Avalanche Peak, where the summit provides breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, including the Yellowstone Plateau, the Absaroka Range, and the eastern edge of the park. The approximately 4.5-mile trail is best hiked from mid-July through September. (There may be snow at the peak in September, but conditions are generally still good for hiking. Check up-to-date conditions on AllTrails or trailhead signs.)
Mount Washburn – This is a classic Yellowstone hike with panoramic views, and in September, the cooler weather makes the climb more comfortable. The trail to Mount Washburn is often accessible through September, providing stunning views of fall colors across the park. Enjoy autumn hues spread across the valleys below the summit.
Lamar Valley Trail or Trout Lake Loop – Lamar Valley isn’t just great for wildlife watching; in September, the cottonwoods and aspens turn beautiful shades of yellow and gold. The valley’s open expanses offer stunning views of fall foliage against the backdrop of rolling hills and distant mountains. The cooler temperatures also make for comfortable hiking, and you’ll have a good chance of spotting wildlife like bison and elk. Be aware of bear activity in this area and arrive early for parking.
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 September, making it an ideal choice for those looking for shorter hikes with rewarding views.
Hiking the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail.
View of Yellowstone Canyon from the end of the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail.
Stay Safe Hiking Yellowstone’s Bear Country
Yellowstone National Park is bear country, which means black bears and grizzly bears roam freely across the park. It’s important to stay “bear-aware” at all times in Yellowstone, especially when hiking with fewer people on the trails. Hiking in Yellowstone 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 stay safe as you explore 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 September
If you’re planning to hike in Yellowstone in September, lightweight, moisture-wicking layers are essential. Start with a breathable base layer, add a warm fleece or light sweater, and bring a waterproof, windproof jacket for unexpected afternoon thunderstorms. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are a must for navigating Yellowstone's rugged trails and don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
If you're camping, prepare for chilly nights and mornings by packing a warm, insulated jacket, a beanie, and gloves. A cozy fleece or down sleeping bag rated for cool nights is also recommended.
If you plan on early morning or late evening wildlife watching, dress in layers to stay warm and have gloves and a hat handy, as it can be quite cool in September. Remember to bring binoculars and a camera for capturing those wildlife moments, and wear sturdy shoes for walking to the best viewing spots.
FAQs
Is September a good time to visit Yellowstone?
September is an excellent time to visit Yellowstone. The weather is cooler, the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months (especially later in the month), and wildlife activity is high, especially with the elk rut. Fall colors also start to appear in September, and most park services remain open.
Does it snow in Yellowstone in September?
Snow is possible in September, particularly in high-elevation areas, but not common along the park roads or lower-elevation trails.
Average snowfall in Yellowstone by month.
What animals can you see in Yellowstone in September?
In September, you can see elk and pronghorn during their ruts, bears foraging, bison, and a variety of birds preparing for migration.
What is the best time of day to see wildlife in Yellowstone?
Early morning and late evening are the best times to see wildlife in Yellowstone year-round, as animals are more active around dawn and dusk.
What time does it get dark in Yellowstone in September?
By early September, it gets dark around 8:00 PM, and by late September, sunset is closer to 7:00 PM.
What time is sunrise in Yellowstone in September?
In early September, sunrise is around 6:45 AM, and by late September, it’s closer to 7:15 AM.
Is everything open in Yellowstone in September?
Yellowstone remains mostly open in September. All roads are open, most lodges are still open, and many campgrounds, too. Roosevelt Lodge closes at the beginning of the month, and some hikes may close with early snowfall or bear management activities.
Can I camp in Yellowstone in September?
Yes, camping is available in Yellowstone in September, but some campgrounds begin to close. Bridge Bay, Grant Village, Indian Creek, and Canyon Campgrounds generally close in September. Fishing Bridge RV Park, Madison Campground, Lewis Lake, Mammoth, and Slough Creek Campgrounds are generally open in September.
Is there a difference between early September, mid-September, and late September?
Early September still has summer-like conditions with more visitors, while mid and late September are cooler with fewer crowds and the potential for early snow.
Is late September too late to visit Yellowstone?
No, late September is a great time to visit with fewer crowds, active wildlife, and fall colors, but be prepared for colder weather and some seasonal closures.
What’s the best way to see Yellowstone in September 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 September?
Canyon Village and Old Faithful are great central locations for exploring Yellowstone. 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. For proximity to the elk rut, we recommend Mammoth Hot Springs or Gardiner, MT.
Save this for later
Hover over the image below and click on the red “Save” button in the upper lefthand corner of the image to save this on Pinterest for later. (If you’re on mobile, you might have to tap the image first to see the red ‘Save’ button.)
Happy Travels!