Could we still plan a roadtrip to YNP / GNT and surrounding states for end of september/early oktober? We could leave Germany as earliest by 23rd of Sep. Flying via Denver into Billings.But now i read that some streets will be closed already and first snow could arrive...Anyone with suggestions ? Greetings from Hamburg / Germany

Lots further south than Hamburg

www.yellowstone.com could get some early snow

will still be fine... bring some warm clothes

weather2travel.com Climate guides

I have been then less crowded both places go for it!

www.yosemite.com

Go for Ahwannee Lodge awesomest

Happy Travels!

The earlier you can go, the better. Roads in Yellowstone start closing in mid-October. Wear layers of clothing and you'll be fine.

www.nps.gov/yell is the National Park Service's Yellowstone website. You can find information on what roads will be open, lodging, etc.

www.nps.gov/grte is the Grand Teton NP site.

Have a great time!

Lee Ann

qwovadis, I think YNP meant Yellowstone National Park instead of Yosemite National Park.

Late September/early October would not be my choice of dates for this area due to snow and possible closures.

Have you visited the National Parks in Utah yet?

Utahtea

yes utahtea,i mean Yellowstone ;-)
we´ve been to Yosemite and also the breathtaking Parks in Utah, now we thought about going to Yellowstone and some parts of MT and WY. Can not leave earlier, than the Date mentioned.But if it starts snowing that early...don´t know...

Brgds

It rarely snows much until mid October. Late September is a beautiful time in the park. Lots of animals because the weather is a little cooler and far less traffic.

I haven't been at this time, but I think it would be fantastic.

If you are flying into Billings then I suppose that you will be taking the Beartooth Highway into YNP.

I drove that road on Sept 9 or 10 last year and there was snow on the road at the highest point. The road was winding and I was nervous (which is unusual). Part of the nervousness was due to not knowing what my rental car was capable of.

I don't think I would do this unless I had a 4-wheel drive vehicle. I would not do it at any time between late afternoon and late morning.

At that time, in early September, the road east from YNP to Cody was closed due to snow.

OTOH, it is an extremely rewarding drive. The mountains are magnificent and there are several great stops along the way to Mammoth Hot Springs. Lamar Valley is amazing. If you are comfortable with the prospect of driving in the snow and there are no restrictions on the route, then go with your plan.

Ok, I do have to admit being nervous about driving in snow and ice. That was not always the case, but 30 years of living in mile climates has changed my attitude.

I recommend paying any one-way rental fee and drop off the car in Jackson and fly home from there.

So, are you choosing between these sights and the east coast? Or doing both?