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)
Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Yellowstone are April and May.
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 2026-07-16