Travel Info

What To Pack

The high altitude makes the sun more intense and the weather more variable. Dressing in easily removable layers ensures you’re always comfortable. Always pack an assortment of layered clothing, a jacket, footwear appropriate for the season and elements, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Below are some examples of appropriate clothing for each season.

Winter – Warm, water-resistant coat, hat, gloves, scarf, fleece or flannel shirt, long underwear, snow pants, and water-resistant boots.

Spring/Fall – T-shirt, rain jacket, fleece jacket, jeans, and shorts. As a reminder, we can get snow any month of the year, so always pack a warm jacket.

Summer – Light jacket, shorts, jeans, and hiking boots.

Weather

West Yellowstone receives an annual average of 25” of precipitation and 166” of snowfall, meaning we are one of the snowiest places in Montana. On average, we receive about 107 days per year of some form of precipitation, rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

July continues to be the hottest month in West Yellowstone, with average temperatures of 78.4 degrees Fahrenheit, but even with the warm days, temperatures average in the 40s or colder at night.

Humidity is very low in West Yellowstone, leaving the air dry. This can lead to cracked, itchy skin and dry eyes. Remember to be kind to your skin, and bring lotion and lip balm during all seasons.

Average Temperatures and Precipitation

(Fahrenheit & Inches)

Before You Explore

We are excited to get to share our natural wonders with you, and we know you’re excited to get out and see them, but before you go there are some things to know:

Cell Coverage – You won’t have trouble staying connected when you’re in town, but when you head out on a trail, river, or back road, that could change. Let others know when you expect to be back. Cell coverage is sparse traveling from West Yellowstone on 191 towards Bozeman.

Sparse Services – Cell service isn’t the only service that is sparse between towns and outside of West Yellowstone. Gas will also be limited once leaving the town, so be sure to fill up before traveling.

Driving – Don’t let the scenery distract you; drive cautiously and watch for animals. If you need to stop for any reason, use a pullout. Do not block traffic. Winding roads and traffic often increase the drive times significantly, so be sure to pack your patience. In the winter, expect longer drive times due to icy, snow-covered roads. For road condition updates for Montana, visit 511mt.net, and for Idaho visit 511.idaho.gov

Hikes, Roadtrips, and Other Excursions – Always pack more food, water, and cold-weather wear than you expect to need. Being over-prepared is always the safest option.