Travel Tips

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Best Time To Visit Wyoming (Weather, Parks & Adventures!) 

Plan your perfect Wyoming trip! Find the best times for national parks, outdoor adventures, and budget travel tips. Ideal weather and activities await!

Tobi Miles
July 20, 2022
Best Time To Visit Wyoming (Weather, Parks & Adventures!) 

Wyoming is a state in the Mountain West region. It is the lowest populated U.S. state, boasting thousands of acres of beautiful land with varying terrain. It is best known for its stunning national parks and mountain views.

The best time to visit Wyoming is from mid to late September. In the beginning of fall, the weather is mild with minimal snow. Temperatures average 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This is perfect for visiting national parks and participating in outdoor activities. In addition to fewer crowds in the low season, flights and hotels are up to 25% cheaper.

Wyoming is a gorgeous state with plenty of adventures for travelers of all ages. Those planning a trip to this scenic mountain range should note the best times to visit.

Read on to learn about the different seasons in Wyoming and when it is ideal to vacation there.

What Is The Worst Time To Visit Wyoming?

The worst time to visit Wyoming is any time in the winter. From October to January, the state experiences heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. January is the coldest month, averaging below 30 degrees during the day.

With such extreme weather conditions, there are not many activities available for tourists. The cold temperatures are unpleasant for those who may not be used to a snowy climate.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To Wyoming?

The cheapest time to visit Wyoming is generally the middle to end of September. This is the low tourist season, offering discounted flight rates to and from the state.

For the cheapest hotel rates, travelers should plan a trip from January to March or any time between August and December.

Best Time To Visit Wyoming For Stunning National Parks and Outdoor Adventures

January: Best Time For a Cross-Country Skiing Trip

January is the coldest month in Wyoming. During this time, the state experiences heavy snowfall throughout all of its national parks and nature areas.

If the snow is not a deal-breaker, the peak of winter can still be a great time to experience Wyoming‘a beauty.

January is ideal for winter sports in the snow. A cross-country skiing trip may be of interest to outdoor enthusiasts.

Wyoming is home to many cozy ski resorts to visit, including the Rustic Inn and the Grand Targhee Resort.

In addition to skiing, guests can venture out from the resort for more winter activities.

These include sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and snowmobile tours. Other unique experiences in Wyoming in January are sledding and ice skating.

  • Snow King Resort
  • Hogadon Basin
  • Pine Creek

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Jackson Hole, WY

February: Best Time For Winter Sports and Snow Adventures

February is the best time for winter sport activities across the state of Wyoming.

There are plenty of national parks and preserved wilderness areas to explore. The snow-covered mountains are ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding.

Snowmobiles are another popular choice during the winter in Wyoming. Curt Gowdy State Park offers guests the unique experience of going ice sailing over the frozen Granite Springs Reservoir.

Visitors can also participate in ice fishing over one of many natural lakes and reservoirs found in Wyoming.

  • Ice fishing at Keyhole State Park
  • Winter wildlife tours

March: Best Time To Attend Music and Food Festivals

March is an ideal time to experience local culture and everything Wyoming’s unique cities have to offer.

The winter snow starts to clear up in preparation for spring, creating opportunities for more time outdoors.

There are plenty of shows and festivals to attend in March in Wyoming. Jackson Hole hosts dozens of events during this particular month.

Every Saturday, Music Under The Tram features live band performances. The venue is sunny with views of the Aerial Tram summit.

The Jackson Hole Food and Wine Winter Fest is an annual 3-day experience in March.

Guests have the chance to sample local cuisine and meet renowned Teton Village chefs. Sheridan’s Wild Wine Fest is hosted in Sheridan, Wyoming every year in March.

  • Attend food and music festivals
  • Concerts In The Park

April: Best Time To Visit National and State Parks

April in Wyoming features beautiful weather and gorgeous nature views. It is the perfect time to get outdoors and experience the national and state parks.

Some of the best places to visit in April are Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

The springtime is lively across Wyoming’s national parks. There are tons of wildlife species to view, along with flowers in full bloom.

Curt Gowdy State Park is another ideal location to experience while visiting Wyoming in April.

It features plenty of reservoirs and water bodies for boating and enjoying the fresh air.

Sinks Canyon State Park is a gorgeous recreation area in Lander, Wyoming. It is home to an expansive river that dips below a limestone cavern.

There are plenty of things to do here, from swimming and fishing to hiking and picnicking.

  • Hot Springs State Park
  • Boysen State Park
  • Keyhole State Park

May: Best Time For Nature Photography

Wyoming is a scenic travel destination almost any time of year. Whether you are looking for views of bright greenery or snow, you will find it in this state.

May is a particularly ideal time to visit Wyoming to experience its breathtaking beauty.

Those who are looking to take jaw-dropping photos in Wyoming will get the most out of their trip in May.

Whether you are having a family photoshoot or have a passion for wildlife photography, there is a place for you in Wyoming.

Some of the best locations to take photos in Wyoming in May are Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

Yellowstone is home to many waterfalls and geysers that offer outstanding scenery and backgrounds.

Wyoming has plenty of beautiful meadows and wilderness areas for portrait photos. These areas include Lupine Meadows and the Shoshone National Forest.

  • Antelope Flats
  • Uxu Ranch
  • Pathfinder Reservoir

June: Best Time For Fun Water Sports

With all around warm temperatures and ample sunshine, there is no doubt that June is an optimal time for water sports in Wyoming.

Daytime temperatures do not typically exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Whether you are camping or just spending time outdoors, there is no shortage of available activities.

Wyoming is home to many large water bodies. Its national parks and wilderness areas contain plenty of lakes, reservoirs, and rivers for exploration.

Popular water activities include white water rafting, boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing.

Wyoming is also an excellent place to go fishing in the summertime. Some of the best areas for a productive fishing day include Bighorn Lake and the Glendo Reservoir.

Species of fish you may catch range from trout to catfish depending on the area.

  • Take a 13-mile scenic float with views of Grand Teton
  • Yellowstone guided kayak tours

July: Best Time To Visit Local Markets and Shops

Summers in Wyoming feature some of the best weather of the year. The temperatures are mildly warm and the sun shines through the day. The busiest tourist season is optimal for exploring outdoor attractions.

July is the best time to visit Wyoming’s large selection of local markets. The Green River Farmers Market in Downtown Green River is open in the evenings from 4 to 7 pm. Offerings from local farmers include freshly harvested fruits and vegetables.

The Rock Springs Main Market in Downtown Rock Springs features locally grown produce. Bath products and homemade crafts are also available for sale by over 50 vendors.

The Laramie Farmers Market provides travelers and locals with organic grocery items. Those visiting the city of Cody, Wyoming can attend its Summer Vintage and Made Market for vintage and homemade goods.

  • Basin Farmers Market
  • Buffalo Main Street Market
  • Dubois Farmers Market

August: Best Time To Go On a Camping Trip

August is included in Wyoming’s high tourism season. The weather is warm and sunny for the whole month, with pleasant temperatures at night.

Those who are planning a camping trip to Wyoming should consider visiting in August. There are endless campsites to choose from in the state, inclusive of its many national parks.

Some of the best parks to go camping in Wyoming are Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park.

State parks and forests including Curt Gowdy and the Shoshone National Forest are other popular locations to camp.

While camping in Wyoming in August, travelers can enjoy hiking, boating, and fishing in optimal weather conditions.

  • Norris Campground
  • Jenny Lake Campground
  • Firehole Canyon Campground
  • Mammoth Hot Springs Campground

Related Read: 20 Best Camping Spots In Wyoming

September: Best For Budget Travelers

September is the peak of the low tourist season, making it the best option for budget travelers. On average, prices for flights and hotels are up to 25% lower during the entire month.

The best time to take a trip to Wyoming on a budget is from the middle to end of September.

Thrifty travelers can enjoy free or low cost things to do during their trip. Possible activities include visiting the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens or touring the Bighorn National Forest.

There are plenty of sights to see around Wyoming’s interesting cities. Self-guided walking tours are always an option to make the most of your trip on a budget.

  • Visit national and state parks
  • Walk around historic Sheridan

October: Best Time For Scenic Drives In Nature

October in Wyoming can get very cold, being so close to the winter months. Temperatures average just below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. While the weather is bearable, it is not ideal for most outdoor activities.

One of the best things to do in October is experience Wyoming’s stunning beauty on a scenic drive. There is no shortage of places to go throughout the state’s diverse terrain.

Some of the most beautiful scenic drives to take in Wyoming are Lamar Valley, Crazy Woman Canyon, Grand Loop Road, and the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway.

Travelers can expect to see mountains dusted with snow and diverse wildlife during this season.

  • Happy Jack Road
  • Snowy Range Scenic Byway

November: Best Time To Take a Wildlife Tour

November is a beautiful time to visit Wyoming and experience its many national park venues. Although the terrain is cold and covered in snow, there are plenty of opportunities for guided tours.

Visitors of Grand Teton can embark on a wildlife safari through the park. BrushBuck Wildlife Tours offers guests an immersive experience of the park.

Tours are typically given from an open-air vehicle during the warmer months. In November, the windows are sealed to keep warm while driving through the snow-covered park.

During the winter, travelers can expect to view some of over 60 species of animals. These include owls, bears, and wolves.

Other wildlife tour experiences in Wyoming include the Wyoming Wilds Winter Wildlife Tours and Abercrombie and Kent Safari.

Some of the best areas to tour in November are the city of Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park.

  • Horseback riding tours of the Bridger-Teton National Forest
  • Grand Teton Wildlife Tours

December: Best Time To Explore Museums and Exhibits

December is one of the coldest winter months that Wyoming experiences yearly.

Visitors are likely to encounter plenty of snow and freezing temperatures during the day and at night.

This is the perfect month to spend time indoors with heat and shelter from the extreme weather outside.

December is a great time to visit the plentiful museums and indoor exhibits Wyoming has to offer. The Wyoming State Museum and Depot Museum are excellent choices to spend a cold day.

The National Museum of Wildlife Art features displays of Wyoming’s most beautiful animal species. Other points of interest include The Brinton Museum and Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

Towards the end of the year, Wyoming hosts many holiday displays. These are inclusive of Casper’s Downtown Christmas Parade and the Festival Lights at Cam-Plex Park.

The state lights up with hundreds of beautiful lights throughout the month of December.

  • Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
  • Wyoming Dinosaur Center

Best Time To Visit Wyoming To Avoid Crowds

The low tourist season in Wyoming occurs between September and October every year. It is ideal to visit during this time to skip the lines and crowds.

Travelers can also avoid heavy tourist traffic in the winter months between November and January.

If the snow will not hinder planned activities, visitors can enjoy a secluded vacation in Wyoming at this time.

What Is The Best Time Of The Year To Visit Jackson Hole, Wyoming?

The best time of year to visit Jackson Hole, Wyoming is in the spring. The months of April and May offer mild weather and beautiful scenery.

Daytime temperatures average around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, with chillier nights at 30 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the optimal month to experience Jackson Hole’s outdoor activities without any extreme weather conditions.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Grand Teton National Park

What Is The Summer Like In Wyoming?

The state of Wyoming is a beautiful place to visit year-round. The summertime is no different. The days are sunny and warm, especially in the mountains.

Peak temperatures in July are between 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This weather does not last long, however.

At the end of the summer season, temperatures quickly drop back down to an average of 60 degrees Fahrenheit daily.

When Is It The Best Weather In Wyoming?

Wyoming has optimal weather almost all year long. Outside of its snowy winters, temperatures are generally mild and comfortable.

The best weather in Wyoming is found in June, July, and August. The temperature is warm during this time, with beautiful sunny days.

It gets chilly at night, but the cold is not unbearable. This season is perfect for outdoor activities during the day and at night.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Grand Teton National Park?

Grand Teton National Park is one of Wyoming’s most beautiful attractions. The park features picturesque mountain views beyond lush green forests.

The best time to visit the park is in the fall, particularly in September. During this time, the trees change to beautiful autumn colors. The weather is pleasant, and snow starts to cover the tops of the scenic mountains.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Yellowstone National Park?

The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is undoubtedly the Spring. April is the peak month to experience mild weather and local wildlife.

Those who are concerned about crowds may be interested in visiting during the off season between September and October.

What Is The Winter Like In Wyoming?

Winters in Wyoming begin around September, when the first snow begins to fall. It progressively gets colder as the months go on, starting to average 30 degree daytime weather.

The entire state experiences over 60 inches of snow each year. The cold hits its peak during the month of January. From October to early spring, heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can be expected.

Related Read: 15 Best Waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park

What Is The Best Time To Visit Sinks Canyon State Park?

Sinks Canyon State Park is a preserved nature area known for its beautiful scenery and expansive river. The sandstone canyon hides the stream briefly underground, creating “sinks” in the earth.

The park is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is between July and September. The late summer months provide sunny days and warm weather. This is ideal for spending time near the river and participating in water sports.

As it gets closer to September, travelers can enjoy mild temperatures with minimal crowds. The best things to do in early fall include hiking the cool mountains and watching wildlife. Visitors can spend time outdoors and enjoy the park before the winter.

Tobi Miles
Article updated:
March 28, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
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