Hi-
We want to go to Yellowstone this year and were wondering if we should go the week of April 8th or June 17th? Yes- as a teacher my vactions may be plentiful, but the dates are locked in stone. We are avid wildlife photographers, so we would want to go when the wildlife would be most plentiful. Is April 8th too early? We also don't like crowds- What would they be like mid June? I really appreciate any and all suggestions.

ttt

I don't know about April, but we went the third week of June one year and had a blast. We saw a wolf, and elk and the usual. Also had a beautiful snowstorm that dropped about a foot and closed the park. April may be too early. Have you checked availability?

A vote for June but check for availability immediately. April is iffy and many of the roads may likely be closed.

I totally understand being locked into dates as we must travel in the summer or spring breaks, also.

Summers are crowded in yellowstone but certainly doable. We've been several times and not had a problem. Make ressies NOW if you want even a chance at staying inside the park; it's likely too late but you might get in on a cancellation.

Also, early morning and dusk are the best times to see wildlife regardless what month you visit, other than bison that are always around.

I think April would be miserable. Snow would make things wet and muddy, and I would expect cold temperatures. Spring comes slowly to that high country.

June is much better. We were there once in late May and when we stopped at Old Faithful, the wind chill factor was around 15 degrees and seemed worse.
Also, most of the lodges will be closed.

Even in early June some of the roads may not yet be open. We were fortunate in that while we were there the Beartooth Highway opened. We drove over it and were greeted by canyons of white where the snow plows had cut through 10 and 12 foot snow drifts.

One thing about early June, the days are long and the air is often crisp.

With the snow melt, the various water falls are full and so are the rivers.

PS. Another plus for June is that the ranger-led interpretive programs should be gearing up for the summer. In April, none of the seasonal ranger staff will be there.

I find the ranger programs to be most informative and they add to the enjoyment of the park.

Thank you so much for the advice! We will go in June then. I have a timeshare trade for that date- was thinking of letting it go- but will not do so now! Thanks again!