When Is the Best Time to Visit Wyoming?
Wyoming’s mountains, lakes, and forests call nature lovers of every kind to its borders. This sparsely populated state is an incredible spot to hike, search for wildlife, ski, or just relax in the pure air.
Of course, Wyoming has its peaks and valleys just like any other state in the US. If you’re wondering the best time to visit Wyoming, we’ll look at how everything from climate to tourist season will impact your trip.
Know Before You Go
The truth is that there’s no one best time to visit Wyoming: every month and season offers its own pros and cons. However, if there are certain deal-breakers for you, it’s worth learning the general rhythms of the state before you pick a week to travel.
For example, if you don’t want to get stuck behind large crowds in Yellowstone or if you’d prefer not to deal with a snowstorm in the middle of your trip. As you list your preferences, it'll be easier to eliminate certain months.
Wyoming Weather
Wyoming’s weather can change in the blink of an eye. Here, we’ll break down the general patterns season-by-season:
- Winter: Often referred to as ski season, winter is cold and windy. It’s a great time to travel via dog sleds or snowshoes, largely because many of the main roads are closed, especially if you’re planning a trip to a hot spring!
- Spring: As snow starts to melt on the ground, the state gets even wetter from above with its spring rains. The flipside is that spring is when all the newborn animals make their debut. So, if you’re dying to see a baby buffalo or elk, this is a good time to pack your rain gear.
- Summer: Summer is warm and dry, and plenty of tourists come to bike, hike, and explore the national parks. This is also when the state celebrates its historical influence in the US, including holding a Wild West show in Jackson. Just keep in mind that summer can still bring its fair share of wet weather, and it’s not always possible to stay out of the rain.
- Fall: The scenery as the leaves begin to change in Wyoming is a breathtaking sight. Of course, even if you don’t visit at the peak of its color, you can still see plenty of beautiful scenery. Fall is usually when the rock-climbers descend on Wyoming, so you might want to plan your trip for early fall if you’re planning to try it out for yourself.
Breaking It Down
The weather in Wyoming is not always hospitable, and it’s not unusual for people to cancel plans due to inopportune storms. November is notoriously unpredictable and, unsurprisingly, usually the least popular month for people to travel. July is the warmest month of the year, with temperatures usually topping out around the mid-70s.
It’s also important to keep track of the elevated temperatures. You may generally be aware of plunging temperatures the higher you climb, but not everyone is prepared for winter weather in the middle of August. If you’re planning to get some serious climbing done, you may need to step up your gear (or rent some equipment for your trek)!
Finally, Wyoming technically has two springs, depending on where you visit. Thanks to the elevated temperatures, summer is more like spring in the mountains, and you can catch some spectacular displays of color if you time it right. From May to September, you might catch some stunning wildflower blooms as you make your way through the trails.
When's the Best Time to Visit Jackson Hole?
Jackson Hole is usually swamped with crowds between June and August. This is not just because the kids are off school, though that’s certainly one factor, but because it has more structured activities and the warmest weather. If you’re planning to ski, you can visit anytime between December and April. (While snow does technically start to fall in October, the skiing/snowshoeing season doesn’t start until after Thanksgiving.)
If you want to fish, raft, bike, hike, or see a shoot-out, it’s best to visit during the warmer weather. Just keep in mind that not only will camping space be limited, you’ll also be subjected to higher prices.
If you’re looking for the best place to stay, consider Jackson Hole Vacation Rentals by Outpost. Here, you’ll find rental homes that offer a mix of convenience and luxury. Put all your loved ones under the cathedral ceilings and enjoy the stunning scenic views. Stroll to Teton Village or Jackson to stock up or check out the nearby National Elk Refuge or Snow King Mountain. These rentals are about a 3-hour drive from Yellowstone, so plan accordingly if you're planning to hit both famous Wyoming spots.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Cody, Wyoming?
If you want to check out the cowboy town of Cody and hit up Yellowstone National Park while you're at it, you’re following the same general patterns for the rest of the state. If you want to see the famous wildlife in the national park, you’ll want to come in the springtime. This is right when the roads start to open again, so you should be able to navigate the park with relative ease.
Cody is known for its homages to old-school cowboy culture, and it celebrates with everything from rodeo shows to museums. If you want to experience the heart of America at its most patriotic, you might want to schedule your trip to catch the fireworks on the 4th of July.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay, Cody & East Yellowstone Vacation Rentals by Cody Lodging Company offers an unparalleled Wild West experience. From fly-fishing to local artwork, these rentals span from the center of town to the edge of the mountains.
When Is the Cheapest Time to Visit Wyoming?
As the temperatures start to drop and the weather becomes more unpredictable, off-season rates start to look very affordable for budget travelers. In October and November, the scenic highways and park entrances start to close, and the hunters replace the hikers. If you can handle the winds and the powder, though, you can check out this unspoiled paradise from a new vantage point.
Where to Turn for Help
The right local expertise in Wyoming can transform a traveler’s stay in this truly gorgeous state — no matter what month you visit. Whether you’re concerned about handling inclement weather or just want to find the best whitewater rafting route, you can find rentals that offer more than just a place to stay.
The 100 Collection is lucky enough to partner with Outpost and Cody Lodging Company. No matter which rental you choose, you'll find expert help to make the most of your visit!
