Yellowstone in September: Things to Do, Weather, and More

Is it a good idea to visit Yellowstone in September? Whether you’ve been to this National Park before or are brand new to Yellowstone, you may be wondering what a good time of year is to visit, and if September is ideal. Are there still going to be as many fantastic opportunities within the park during the month of September as opposed to the previous summer months? 

In this article, we will address everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone during the month of September. We will go over some of the top activities that there are to do in this National Park during the entire month, and whether there are any important things for you to know before you begin your trip. Let’s get started and talk all about Yellowstone National Park in September now! 

Things to Do in Yellowstone in September

As the summer begins to wind down, so does Yellowstone National Park. However, this isn’t to say that there aren’t plenty of things to do in the park during this time of year. For example, there are still ample wildlife viewing opportunities, which is one of the most popular things to do during anyone’s visit to Yellowstone. Be sure to have a camera on hand for any fantastic surprise wildlife encounters! 

Speaking of wildlife encounters, September is a great time for the bison and elk populations, as they are more active due to their breeding season. Not only will there be plenty of photo opportunities for wildlife, but September is when the leaves and foliage start to change throughout the park. It is a peaceful and beautiful time to visit, though don’t expect absolute solitude while you are in the park. 

While September isn’t nearly as busy as July and August in Yellowstone National Park, you can still anticipate a decent number of visitors before the weather fully turns. You may still need to plan your trip accordingly so that you have plenty of time to accomplish everything that you are hoping to accomplish, but September is less busy overall! 

Weather in Yellowstone in September

The average temperature in Yellowstone National Park during the month of September is reasonable compared to the upcoming fall and winter months. It averages anywhere from 32 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit, but the precipitation is difficult to anticipate during this month of the year. There may be some snowfall or you may get lucky and only deal with rain while on your trip, as this month doesn’t experience very much precipitation on average. No matter what, you have almost 13 hours a day of sunshine in order to explore this beautiful National Park! 

Wildlife in Yellowstone in September

September is a great time for photographing wildlife and otherwise observing a number of different species from the comfort of your vehicle, or while you are hiking any number of trails found in Yellowstone National Park. The elk and bison population are mating during this time of year, so it is important to keep your distance from these creatures during this territorial time. 

You can expect to see any of the following animals during your trip:

• Bison
• Deer
• Elk
• Bighorn sheep
• Rabbits
• Foxes
• Weasels
• Wolves
• Many different bird varieties, including raptors

For your own safety, Yellowstone Park Rangers recommend that you stay at least 100 yards away from the nearest large animal, particularly bison, wolves, and bears. Keep in mind that, although they may seem accustomed to humans, these are indeed wild animals in one of the wildest National Parks in America!

Getting to Yellowstone in September

Fortunately, all roads and entrances into Yellowstone National Park remain open during the month of September, unless there are extreme weather scenarios outside of the park’s control. You can drive your car throughout the region, and even visit nearby national parks like the Grand Tetons. Keep an eye on the weather in case it turns unexpectedly, but it is extremely easy to get to Yellowstone during the month of September! 

Lodging in Yellowstone in September

While July and August give visitors plenty of camping and lodging opportunities within Yellowstone National Park, September brings park-wide closures for a number of different locations. Most campgrounds close during September, though there are a select few that remain open until the end of October. The Old Faithful Inn as well as the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins remain open during this month, though they do book up quickly! 

Tips and Tricks for Yellowstone in September

It is highly recommended that you bring a camera with you to Yellowstone National Park, no matter what time of year you visit. However, September is ideal for taking photos of the fall foliage as well as a number of different wildlife species found throughout the park. While September is busier than October or November, you will likely still find a moment of peace and quiet, as well as reflection and solitude, which is an ideal time to document your National Park experience! 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Martin Rudlof Photography/Shutterstock.com