In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone National Park during the month of February, including what activities are popular. We will also go over what the weather is like during this time of year as well as what wildlife you are likely to see. Let’s get started and talk about this park now!
Things to Do in Yellowstone in February
Yellowstone National Park isn’t all geysers and mountains during the month of February. In fact, it is primarily snowy, with nearly 30 inches of snowfall during this time of year. However, Yellowstone Park Rangers anticipate this, and you should too. That’s why Yellowstone offers a number of activities that are all about embracing the weather during this time of year. For example, you can rent snowshoes, snowmobiles, or cross country skis through Yellowstone as well as many other outside vendors, as these companies offer guided hikes and much more. In addition, there are snow coach tours led via bus or private car, available for an extra fee. This allows you to explore Yellowstone National Park from the warmth and safety of a vehicle that you don’t have to operate! Given that many roads are closed to tourist traffic during the month of February, you may find your trip a bit lacking if you don’t sign up for a guided tour or hike of some sort. However, it should be easy to register for any one of these fantastic opportunities, and you can always strap on some snowshoes if there’s a hike that you really want to do!
Weather in Yellowstone in February
The weather in Yellowstone during the month of February isn’t exactly warm. In fact, the average temperature varies from as low as 2 degrees Fahrenheit to as high as 28 degrees Fahrenheit. While this isn’t the coldest possible month to visit Yellowstone, you’ll still need to bring a few coats along with multiple layers! In addition to nearly 30 inches of snowfall throughout the month, you can also expect up to 10 hours of daylight per day, leaving you with plenty of time to explore. No matter what activity you choose to do, you should plan to take a nice warm bath upon returning to your lodgings after a long day in Yellowstone!
Wildlife in Yellowstone in February
Despite the chill in the air, there are a number of different animals and wildlife viewing areas to explore during the month of February. The Northern Ridge is a fantastic place to view carnivores such as wolves, though the grizzly bear is still hibernating during this time. Besides bears, you can expect to see any of the following animals during your trip:
BisonDeerElkBighorn sheepRabbitsFoxesWeaselsWolves
For your own safety, Yellowstone Park Rangers recommend that you stay at least 100 yards away from the nearest large animal, particularly bison and elk. 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 February
It is important to note that many roads to and through Yellowstone are closed during the month of February due to weather. Only the northernmost and northeastern entrance to Yellowstone remain open during this time, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get to see everything you want during this month! Travel just might need to happen in snowy conditions, and you should always check for any additional road closures.
Lodging in Yellowstone in February
There are a number of places to stay while you enjoy a February trip to Yellowstone. For example, you can stay in either the Old Faithful Snow Lodge or the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & cabins. These two in-park locations offer plenty of exclusive activities and are ideal for those of you seeking a romantic Valentine’s Day stay someplace new! Otherwise, you can find lodging for the park in the outlying cities and towns surrounding Yellowstone, such as Livingston, Gardiner, and Cody. These are also great locations for dining and romantic activities, should that be something you are seeking. Remember that you can always camp in Yellowstone National Park in designated areas, but just be prepared for cold weather!
Tips and Tricks for Yellowstone in February
Besides paying attention to any potential road closures and weather patterns, February is one of the best times of year to see a different side of Yellowstone National Park. You can see frozen waterfalls and rivers alongside wolves and geysers, all while avoiding the worst crowds that flock to the park come summertime. Yellowstone truly is a magical place in February!
