Yellowstone in October: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Shoulder · VisitWhen score 65/100 · #6 of 12 months
October is a solid shoulder-season month to visit Yellowstone National Park: crowds run 33% of the July peak (302,468 average visits), days average 46°F with 11 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in October
Yellowstone averages 302,468 recreation visits in October — 33% of what July, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging.
Weather & daylight
Daytime stays cool (highs average 46°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 22°F). It is typically dry (1.9″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 11 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station YELLOWSTONE LAKE, WY US (6 mi from park coordinates, 7,835 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of October.
What to pack for Yellowstone in October
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 22°F, below freezing
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
- Bear spray — recommended by the park in grizzly country (check current park regulations before you carry)
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Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Yellowstone are April and May.
Also at their best in October
Other parks whose computed October verdict is a best window — same NPS × NOAA formula:
- Badlands in October — 27% of peak crowds, highs 63°F, score 81/100
- Isle Royale in October — 2% of peak crowds, highs 51°F, score 81/100
- Wind Cave in October — 25% of peak crowds, highs 61°F, score 81/100
- Gateway Arch in October — 26% of peak crowds, highs 69°F, score 80/100
Common questions
Is Yellowstone crowded in October?
No — October is one of the quieter months: 33% of the July peak, averaging 302,468 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Yellowstone in October?
Average highs of 46°F, lows of 22°F, 1.9″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, YELLOWSTONE LAKE, WY US station).
What should I pack for Yellowstone in October?
Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit; Bear spray — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in October · Last verified 2026-09-12