In this article, we will address everything you need to know about what the weather’s like in Yellowstone National Park during the month of February. We will go over some of the pros and cons of visiting this National Park during this time of year, as well as what you can expect out of the potential wildlife found. Let’s get started and talk about Yellowstone in February now!
What is the Weather Like in Yellowstone in February?
Yellowstone weather in February is particularly cold, with an abundance of snow and freezing temperatures throughout the month. Though the weather is not quite as cold as the month of January, you can expect the average high temperature to be 28 degrees Fahrenheit during February, with a low of roughly 2 degrees Fahrenheit. However, there is plenty of daylight during this time of year, with 10 hours a day being the average. You can expect the majority of rivers and waterfalls to be frozen, as well as a decent amount of snow at this high of an elevation. Given the fact that Yellowstone averages 8000 feet throughout the park, there’s going to be no shortage of snow during this time of year!
Pros of Visiting Yellowstone in February
There are a number of perks if you choose to visit Yellowstone during the month of February. For example, the attendance during the winter months in Yellowstone National Park are a fraction of what the numbers are like in a single month during the summer. You can still see just about everything there is to see, with far fewer people crowding you! In addition, an abundance of wildlife comes down into the lower plains and meadows during this time of year as well. This allows you to view them in their natural habitats without much interference, including some species that you may not normally have the opportunity to see. You get to see these animals in a new light, as well as the rest of the park!
Cons of Visiting Yellowstone in February
There’s a reason that very few people visit Yellowstone during the winter months, particularly the month of February. Given the fact that there is still a large amount of snow expected alongside freezing temperatures, you can expect Yellowstone in February to be particularly cold and chilly, not exactly perfect for outdoor activity. In addition, many roads and hiking trails at upper elevations are closed during this time of year for your own safety as well as the inability to maintain these trails. This may mean that your favorite hike is not available to you, but it doesn’t mean that there’s no hiking to be had. However, keeping in mind the fact that you may not be able to drive or walk to everywhere you want to go may put a damper on your travels.
What to Do in Yellowstone in February
Despite many roads and hiking trails being closed during this time of year, there’s plenty of things to do in Yellowstone during February. Here’s our list of some of the top things you should consider doing if you are planning a winter Yellowstone National Park trip!
Wildlife Viewing
One of the best opportunities that you should take in Yellowstone National Park during the month of February has to be viewing the wildlife. Not only will you likely see Yellowstone’s trademark bison, there’s also a number of different animals to be seen that aren’t normally seen during the summer months. The primary reason all of these animals are more readily available for viewing is because of their need for warmth. Many animals make their way down from higher elevations to rest or feed in these lower meadows, which means you can see even more than during warmer months! Some of the animals you can expect to see during this time of year are:
ElkFoxesBighorn sheepBisonWolvesDeerWeaselsHare
Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing
There’s no need to fret if you realize that your hiking boots won’t do you any good in the snow. Yellowstone National Park offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as part of their park’s guided tours and rental programs. You can rent gear at the park, as well as sign up for a guided tour, or you can go off on your own. You can also rent a snowmobile if you want to see the park in style.
Yellowstone Tours and Relaxation
February is the month of love, given Valentine’s Day happening right in the middle of it. If you are planning a relaxing and romantic trip to Yellowstone National Park during the month of February, there’s plenty to be had through a reservation at local inns and resorts just outside Yellowstone. Relax, enjoy the snow, and stay warm indoors.
