A West Yellowstone vacation is already destined to be an unexpected surprise as you find yourself turning a corner and spotting a mama bison and her baby boy, discovering how the night skies spread out to all corners of the world, making you feel small and insignificant while also feeling safe and protected, and learning why our Sweet Home Montana vacation hideaways are the most popular accommodations in the area. You had some idea of what to expect, of course, filling your itinerary with activities that include hiking, fishing, and relaxing on large decks that overlook the natural landscape of West Yellowstone, but we can pretty much guarantee that this list of five unexpected things to do in our mountain town were more than likely nowhere in your consciousness. This guide will give you more ways to enjoy the wonderland that is West Yellowstone!
You Can Visit the Grand Canyon Without Leaving Montana
Before you think we have totally lost our minds, we should specify that it is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone we are talking about, a much smaller canyon located about 40 miles outside of West Yellowstone. Extending out about 24 miles long and offering depths that range from 800 feet to 1200 feet deep, you can catch sight of this formation from various lookout spots that can be reached by car, including Lookout Point, Red Rock Point, Grand View, and Inspiration Point. The photographs you will take of the canyon may become the ones you frame and hang on your wall and if you feel like a challenge, you can hike along the trail that leads out from the Canyon Lodge Area to the North Rim.
Watch a Classic Musical Live at the Playmill Theater, 29 Madison Avenue
Although you may be visiting West Yellowstone to explore its stunning countryside, we also offer a taste of the urban life with our Playmill Theater. The oldest summer stock in the region, their season starts Memorial Day Weekend with a showing of The Little Mermaid, followed by the classic play Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Offering an elevated summer experience, reasonable ticket prices and the Disney show can make this a fantastic family activity, perhaps introducing your children to a lifelong love of the theater. Sadly, the summer of 2025 will be the last year you can enjoy the delights of the Playmill Theater in West Yellowstone as they are currently building a new one in Mack’s Inn in Idaho. It’s only about 30 miles outside of Yellowstone if you come back and decide you want to watch another play though, so it isn’t the end of theater, just the end of theater life in West Yellowstone.
Test Your Shooting Skills at Yellowstone Big Gun Fun, 15 Madison Avenue
If you have ever wanted to shoot the big guns, including AK-47s, M16s, even a Tommy Gun, Yellowstone Big Gun Fun can make your dreams come true. This unique shooting range lets you shoot your own, should you have brought yours, or rent any gun you desire from their large selection of weapons, offering guides that will help you shoot your best shots. Offering a safe place to play and a great way to kill a few hours on a rainy day (not that it rains all that much in West Yellowstone), children are invited to take part in the experience as well!
Visit a Lake Created by an Earthquake
Earthquake Lake hasn’t always been a lake, but you may surprise that it isn’t a manmade one, either. Created after an earthquake in 1959 caused a colossal landslide, 80 million rocks blocked the flow of the Madison River, and voila, Earthquake Lake was created. Popular with fishermen and women, the lake is home to a large variety of trout, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat. There is a boat ramp for those who want to fish from the lake instead of the shoreline but be prepared for the timbers that rise up out of the water; remember that this lake was once nothing but land.
Feeling at Home with Sweet Home Montana
When traveling to places far from home, it can be difficult to feel at home in the accommodations you choose to stay in, but we at Sweet Home Montana make it our mission to provide the most comfortable spaces in the state for our guests who come in from all over the world. The sofas in our living room will be where your best naps will be taken, the beds in our bedrooms provide such a deep sleep you will awaken every morning feeling rested and ready for a new day of unexpected adventures, and the hot tubs on the decks of most of our escapes will make you wish you never had to return home. Reserve your favorite property today!
Although we love our Montana hometown anytime of the year, June is when it really begins to come to life, as all the wild animal babies begin to make their appearances, and the beautiful weather just entices us all to come out and play. And when your journey brings you to West Yellowstone for a June vacation spent relaxing in our Sweet Home Montana vacation hideaways, you will get to witness firsthand all that makes this place special, especially in the summer months and including the events we can’t wait to attend. This guide to the top June events in West Yellowstone will give you a play by play peek into the best summer vacation of all time!
West Yellowstone Rodeo, June 13, 175 Oldroyd Road
Performing most days from June 13 through August the West Yellowstone Rodeo has been a beloved family friendly event for well over 25 years. Offering all the expected rodeo events, including roping, bull riding, barrel racing, and a fun children’s calf scramble that will have you exclaiming about its cuteness out loud. A concession stand provides the good junk food that just goes along with rodeos making an evening out one that you will remember forever. There’s even a mechanical bull making you a part of the festivities. The show lasts approximately two hours, and although it is ongoing during most days, there are some days when it is dark, so be sure to purchase your tickets online to ensure it is open on the night you visit.
Father’s Day, June 15
For most of us, while we don’t forget about dad on Father’s Day, not exactly, we certainly don’t put as much effort into his gifts as we do our mom’s. 2025 can be the year when that all changes, however, starting with your West Yellowstone journey. Instead of tacky ties and humorous coffee mugs, we’ve listed one of the best gift ideas we have ever had, one that will make him speechless and help him realize that yes, he will always be your hero, the first man you ever loved.
Reeling in the Line
It’s not hard to find gifts for dad, especially if you have spent any time at all talking to him and we are going to bet that most dads would give anything for a fly fishing trip on the Madison River, Big Sky Anglers helping everything to fall into place. Fly fishing is big in Montana, they even made a movie here celebrating its merits, and the kind and knowledgeable people at Big Sky Anglers are here to make this adventure the best one. Offering full-day guide trips and three-hour instructional clinics, your dad’s Montana fly fishing trip is going to be one he talks about for years to come.
Juneteenth Free Entry to National Parks Day, June 19
In the grand scheme of themes, it really doesn’t cost all that much to gain entry to Yellowstone, to any, National Park, but isn’t it nice to know that on June 19th the celebration of Juneteenth, lets you get in free? There are six free entry days throughout the year, and aren’t you lucky that your vacation falls on one of those days? Vacations can be expensive, but on June 19th you can save $30, perhaps using it for a couple of glasses of wine over dinner or by purchasing an extra souvenir.
West Yellowstone Music Festival, June 21
The first day of summer deserves to be celebrated and the West Yellowstone Music Festival, held at the Old Airport on June 21 does so in so many ways. The gates open at 5:00 PM, if you purchase VIP tickets, 6:00 PM for everyone else, with the first live performance beginning at 7 PM. Brett Michaels and Dee Snyder are expected to be performing on this night that was meant for music, but there will also be vendor tables set up, selling mementoes of this wonderful night, food and drink vendors selling your favorites of both, and a live auction that will list memorabilia and festival merchandise. Not everyone at this festival will accept cash and not everyone will accept cards, so be sure to bring both as you arrive early to start celebrating summer.
Family Events to Remember
Our favorite top June events may not be ones enjoyed with crowds of other people but may be experienced at home in your Sweet Home Montana summer sanctuary. Family barbecues experienced as the sun sets on the horizon, movie nights enjoyed as the moon rises over the landscape, and family game night with board games being played as everyone gathers around the dining room table. These will be the events that make June shine bright and shine even brighter still because you enjoyed them at home with Sweet Home Montana. Reserve your favorite today!
Summer truly is our favorite time of year in West Yellowstone and although we are a small town, the family-friendly fun you can have celebrating the 4th of July may amaze you. We do the holiday right in Montana and because the 4th falls on a Friday this year, making it the ideal time to make your way out here and explore all that makes America’s birthday unique and special. We at Sweet Home Montana have done the research for you, finding all the West Yellowstone 4th of July activities you can enjoy on this wonderful holiday and listing them here to make it easy and don’t forget that all roads lead home to our comfortable holiday hideaways!
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This Day has it ALL!
West Yellowstone is known as being the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, but we think it should be known for having the best Independence Day celebration in the nation, and yes, that includes the one celebrated at the National Mall in Washington DC. Below is a list of activities you can expect during your stay in our hometown.
Stock Your Kitchen with Goodies from the Farmers Market
The day starts with the opening of the Farmers Market, held on the lawn of the Museum of the Yellowstone, starting at 1 PM. Offering local produce, flowers, homemade baked goods, and a selection of vendors selling their hand created items, this Farmers Market celebrates the joy of small town life as it celebrates our country’s 249th birthday.
Pie on the Porch
Historically, families have taken their sweet treats to the wide front porches of their homes, especially in the days before air conditioning and our own Pie on the Porch activity pays homage to those days. Held at the Union Pacific Dining Lodge, each slice costs $5, baked by some of the areas most talented bakers, and although it is called Pie on the Porch, there is also inside seating should you want a roof over your head. Starting at 1 PM, this is a fundraiser with the money going to the Library Foundation, the sponsor of the event, but be sure to be there early, because once the pie is gone, its gone.
Buffalo Chip Chuck, 3-5 PM, Pioneer Park Baseball Diamond
A somewhat unusual event, the Buffalo Chip Chuck is exactly what it sounds like. Participants toss dried patties of buffalo waste, with prizes going to the one who can toss their chip the furthest. There’s no need to feel grossed out though, the chips are collected in the winter, are thoroughly dried out and cured, before being covered in a thick coat of varnish. This is also a fundraiser for the library in town, and if nothing else is good for a laugh and probably some dramatic gagging by the youngest in your traveling group. (But we bet that their dramatization is all for show and they may want to try some buffalo chip chucking themselves!)
4th of July Parade, Everyone can Enter
Aren’t small town parades just the best? This one invites everyone to take place, but if you don’t want to march, its ok. Every parade deserves an audience and we can assure you your cheers, waves, and applause will be most appreciated. If you do decide to participate, dress up in red, white, and blue, wave your flag, and watch your step; the horses that are in the procession do not wear diapers and their “chips” will fall where they may. The parade starts at 6 PM and you will be judged; there are 3 prizes given to the best costume or float!
Free Music in the Park Concert
Starting at 5PM and lasting until the Fireworks begin to light up the sky, the music will have you dancing in your seat and as the kiddos run mild around the grassy area, the music plays loudly, and the sun shines down brightly you may wonder why you waited this long to check out 4th of July in West Yellowstone. It really is the most fabulous of days.
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Wild West Rodeo
Although the rodeo isn’t a specific holiday activity and it is held a little further away from the main parts of the celebration at the West Yellowstone Rodeo Grounds, this is an all-American adventure we know your entire family will adore. The rodeo starts at 7PM, so you may miss out on the music of the free concert, but we definitely think it’s worth it!
FIREWORKS!
The fireworks begin at 10:15 and by the time the sky lights up with the colorful explosions, we know you will be more than ready. Pioneer Park offers the best views of the show, but guess what? You can basically see the show from anywhere in town and that may include your own back porch in your Sweet Home Montana holiday hideaway. Reserve your favorite Yellowstone vacation rental today and be prepared to celebrate like you never have before!
When it is time to start planning a summer vacation with the family, considering what the children will want to do is as important as choosing the vacation destination because we all know; if our kids aren’t happy, no one is going to be happy. We at Sweet Home Montana understand this as well, and if your summer vacation journey is bringing you to West Yellowstone, we want your entire family to feel welcomed and at home. This guide to planning a kid-friendly summer vacation in West Yellowstone will help you enjoy a vacation that will never be forgotten, one that everyone will agree is the best one you’ve taken in just about forever!
Plan on Teaching a Love for the Theater, The Playmill Theater, 29 Madison Avenue
Yes, we must teach our children to mind their manners, to eat healthily, to wear clean undies, and to be kind, but we must also teach them a love for the arts and although you may not think of theater as a kid-friendly activity, the wonderful people at the Playmill Theater think differently. And because they have been doing this for a long time, the theater is the oldest summer stock in the region, they help you encourage a love of the arts by performing kid-friendly shows. The Little Mermaid is coming to their stage this summer, a tale your children already enjoy and when they fall in love with the magic after the curtain rises, they will be on their way to a life filled with a love for theater.
Plan to Experience the Wild West at the Rodeo, West Yellowstone Rodeo & Creekside Trail Rides, 175 Oldroyd Road
The Wild West has captured the imagination of people of all ages and during your Montana journey you can thrill your children with a peek into what it might have looked like all those years ago with a visit to the West Yellowstone Rodeo. Offering performances 5 to 6 times a week every summer from mid-June through the end of August, this authentic Western experience will change the look of your summer vacation. Rodeo tickets are inexpensive, $20 for adults 12 and older, $10 for children 3-11, and free for 2 and under and their July 4th Rodeo is the most popular, so be sure to buy your tickets early online.
Plan to Trot into Happiness with the Creekside Trail Rides Offered by the West Yellowstone Rodeo
This next adventure is one for kids 6 and older, giving your entire family the opportunity to ride into the future with the Creekside Trail Rides offered by the West Yellowstone Rodeo. Open for trail rides six days a week, they are closed on Sundays, the rides cost $50 per person and promise to be your favorite part of your Montana adventure. Wagon rides may be a little better for families with young children, costing $30 for adults 12 and up and $20 for kids 3-11, the wagon rides don’t have any limitations on age and costs nothing for kids 2 and under. The Rodeo does offer combo tickets so you can enjoy the rodeo and the rides at a discounted price or you can participate in each separately; either experience will make memories you and your children will cherish forever.
Plan to Visit the Park
The town of West Yellowstone is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park and the adventures you can enjoy within the borders of the park will bring joy and become memories you will never forget. Visit Old Faithful and be amazed at the predictability of Nature, explore the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and be stunned by its serene and impressive beauty, or simply drive along the park roads, pulling over when it is safe to see what animals are catching the attention of park goers at any given spot. Viewing wildlife from a safe distance will still be an exciting kid-friendly activity, and as you mark each animal that you hope to see off a list that will probably include moose, buffalo, and bears, your adventure will reach truly epic proportions, and we can assure you that your children will not be able to stop talking about all they saw!
Plan to Feel at Ease and Welcomed in Your Sweet Home Montana Seasonal Sanctuary
Finding a place that you can feel comfortable letting your kiddos run mild in can be a wonderful experience in itself and our summer sanctuaries are designed to do just that. Spend a raucous evening playing board games while gathered round dining room tables, soaking in the hot tub on the deck after the kiddos have taken the journey to slumber, experience the joy of a true family vacation with your four-legged children happily exploring large backyards, and sleep deeply every night in the most comfortable beds in the state. Reserve your favorite kid-friendly sanctuary today!
There’s never a bad time of year to make your way to Yellowstone in the name of vacation fun. That said, there’s something wonderfully exciting about a summer trip this way, especially if you happen to be enjoying your surroundings alongside family and friends. Whether you’re looking to make the most of relaxation in the sunshine, amazing views to admire, or adventure at its best, Yellowstone has something wonderful waiting for you in the summertime. Feel free to use the following as your ultimate guide to summer in Yellowstone when you can’t wait for travel plans to bring you this way this year!
There Are So Many Reasons to Love Yellowstone in the Summertime
While winter in Yellowstone is a treat and fall and spring come with colorful scenery to infuse into your itinerary with ease, summer is absolutely packed with opportunities for travelers who are looking to get out and explore more. During the summer, visitors to Yellowstone will be thrilled by the fact that there simply aren’t any barriers to adventure. Unlike wintertime when many Yellowstone roads are closed in the name of accessibility and safety, summer is a time when nearly every trail, facility, park entrance, and road is open and waiting to be discovered.
This is a time of year for exploring without restriction, and iconic landmarks like the Grand Prismatic Spring are perhaps at their photographic best as well. There’s no shortage of options in Yellowstone in the summertime in the way of outdoor fun, whether you’re one for fishing, boating, camping, hiking, biking, or wildlife watching alike. Summer also means Yellowstone visitors are treated to the longest hours of sunlight of the year, providing options for extending outdoor adventures in the event you find yourself here with a crowd of others and want to slow things down. Some of the area’s most scenic drives like the Beartooth Highway and the Grand Loop are easy to navigate this time of year without any snow or ice to contend with, and the wildlife are typically out in abundance, including bears, bison, elk, and more.
Visit Yellowstone Lake During Your Summer Stay
Yellowstone spans over two million acres of terrain, and within those impressive parameters, there are a long lineup of iconic landmarks that many visitors understandably want to see for themselves. When you make your way here in the summertime, one of the landmarks you simply won’t want to leave off the must-visit list is Yellowstone Lake. This body of water showcases no less than 141 miles of shoreline and at its deepest plummets 400 feet. It also enjoys the unique distinction of being the largest high-elevation lake in all of North America. There are many options for visiting the lake in the summertime with some guests opting to drive around the shoreline to reach great viewpoints and take photos. The other option is to cool off on the waters on a warm summer day and a good way to do this is to head over to the Bridge Bay Marina and rent a boat to enjoy at your own preferred pace.
If you prefer to make the most of summer sightseeing on the water alongside a guide, consider booking your place on a one-hour guided tour onboard the Lake Queen II. This vessel departs from the Bridge Bay Marina throughout the summer season and includes unique area history and insight along the way. Be sure to bring your binoculars for the experience because there’s a good chance you’ll spot elk and bison on the shoreline and eagles overhead this time of year.
Summer Tours Not to Miss When You’re Here
One of the best routes to maximizing your time in Yellowstone is to sign up for as many area tours as possible during your stay. This is a great way to get a comprehensive view and understanding of your surroundings when the weather is on your side. It’s also a strategic way to avoid long lines and crowds when you hold tickets for sightseeing adventures that have access to places in Yellowstone you might otherwise miss out on. The “Wake Up to Wildlife” tour offered at Yellowstone focuses on time exploring the Lamar Valley alongside your guide. These tours head out at dawn in the summertime when many of Yellowstone’s most impressive wildlife are out and about and the crowds haven’t yet made their way in the various entrance points.
It’s an inspiring opportunity to see eagles, elk, bison, moose, and bears free roaming in their natural habitats in a setting that’s tranquil and wonderfully scenic. There are also options to book a unique stagecoach adventure that’s hosted through Yellowstone National Park Lodges in the summertime. This is a fun way to step into the past alongside family and friends as you board a replica Tally-Ho stagecoach and ride along a road that takes you through the heart of Pleasant Valley. These tours are typically 45 minutes long and narrated once you depart from the Roosevelt Corral.
Top Summer Hikes to Enjoy When Adventure Is the Ultimate Goal
It’s hard to imagine anything more refreshing than hiking your way to fun in Yellowstone in the summertime, and those who head this way with boots laced tight will love the sheer variety of trail options to pick and choose from. If you’re visiting with the entire family in tow and looking for routes that can be navigated by hikers of all skill levels, sticking to pathways that are rated moderately difficult is typically a good choice. A few of these include the Beaver Ponds Loop near Mammoth, the trail leading to the Natural Bridge close to Yellowstone Lake, and the Fairy Falls Trail, which offers up the unique opportunity to stop on the overlook out over the Grand Prismatic Geyser.
Must-See Attractions
Perhaps the most difficult part of planning a summer getaway to Yellowstone is trying to narrow down your list when you have a limited timeframe to work with and want to make sure you see as much of this fascinating area as possible. We highly recommend making sure to add fan-favorite landmark stops to the lineup like Old Faithful. Yes, there’s a good chance you’ll find plenty of others have the same idea this time of year, but the crowds are there for a reason. Old Faithful is truly an inspiring sight to see among the world’s largest concentration of active geysers. Witnessing its power for yourself is something you won’t regret, and if you’re traveling with kids, it’s an experience they’ll remember for long after you’ve left Yellowstone behind as well.
You’ll also want to make sure you make time on the summer itinerary for exploring the Canyon Village. It will act as a base camp if hiking to the summit of Mt. Washburn is one of your summer goals, but all summer long, it’s a terrific place for wildlife watching and enjoying Hayden Valley views. The Lamar Valley is another top destination in Yellowstone that you deserve to enjoy for yourself this summer. From the wildlife that linger along the Lamar River to the stunning open hillsides to admire, you might end up lingering here longer than you originally planned to. The travertine terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs are also well worth your while to take time to discover this summer. The landscape here is wonderfully surreal and a visual treat that’s sure to inspire. The geothermal activity in this area is unsurpassed and whether you focus your time on the Upper or Lower Terraces, you might just find that it’s a highlight of your visit.
Finally, don’t leave your summer Yellowstone trip behind without taking some time to enjoy the Norris Geyser Basin. This is both the most ancient and the hottest geyser basin within Yellowstone National Park and proudly boasts the Steamboat Geyser which sprays water 300 to 400 feet up in the air. The geysers here are relatively unpredictable, making every visit a unique experience. There are trails to follow that offer up one-of-a-kind vantage points on these natural wonders and plenty of signage that directs you where to go.
Make Sure Wildlife Watching Is Part of Your Summer Getaway Experience
When it comes to wildlife watching adventures, summer in Yellowstone is an experience you simply can’t top anywhere else on the map. Yellowstone National Park is well-known for the impressive population of bison that call its landscapes home, and some of the top areas to check out with binoculars in hand for the best spotting opportunities in the summertime include Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley as well. The Lamar Valley is also a great place to be when you’re looking forward to potentially setting your sights on black bears and grizzly bears in Yellowstone with added options for viewing around Tower Falls, Roosevelt, and Petrified Tree.
Many visitors are delighted to learn that Yellowstone hosts a robust population of wolves, and while they typically linger further from the main roads, there are chances to spot them in the Lamar Valley too. If you’re hiking in the Bechler River region of Yellowstone this summer, you might have the opportunity to see a moose or two, and for those who are spending quality time in the Mammoth Hot Springs area, options to spot bighorn sheep, elk, and pronghorn are vast and varied. Other creatures you might be lucky enough to see as you make your way through Yellowstone in the summertime include mountain lions, badgers, lynx, bobcats, foxes, and coyotes as well.
Treat Yourself to an Old West Cookout
No matter how you spend your time in Yellowstone this year, there will come a time when you’ll have cravings to curb along the way. A fun option that’s sure to please the entire family is to sign up to be a part of an Old West cookout experience during your stay! This dining experience is paired up with a one-hour horseback ride, stagecoach ride, or covered wagon trip to Yancy’s Hole departing from the Roosevelt Lodge. After you’ve had time to enjoy the serene views along the way, you’ll feast in good company in the fresh air, enjoying selections like baked beans, beef steaks, corn bread, watermelon, potato salad, and campfire-brewed coffee too. Your meal ends on a sweet note as homemade cobbler is served up before you head back to your point of origin in Old West style.
Summer Safety Tips
Your summer in Yellowstone is sure to be a thrill, but keeping some of the following tips in mind will make sure your getaway is smooth, successful, and safe too. If you’re heading out on hiking adventures this time of year, you’re going to want to make sure to pack plenty of water, have bear spray on hand and always travel in groups of three or more. In the event you come into contact with wildlife, you’re required to stay a minimum of 100 yards away from wolves and bears and 25 yards away from all other wildlife.
Here, it’s prohibited to feed wildlife you encounter, and you must leave wildflowers where they are as well. If you’re driving through Yellowstone, the park speed limit is 45 mph, and guests should never wander off trails or designated boardwalks, especially around the park’s geothermal features. Do be sure to bring your camera so you can capture your amazing moments on camera, and if you want the best chances of spotting wildlife, early morning outings are a must.
Book a Stay Near the Best of Your Summer Adventures
Making the most of every moment in Yellowstone this summer means booking comfortable and stylish accommodations that keep you close to the fun with amenities in place that make you feel right at home. That’s what you’ll find and so much more when you reserve your place in a rental through the team of property professionals at Sweet Home Montana. While we handle the details of your stay, you’ll be free to focus on the fun and adventure ahead. Reach out today to learn more about our ideal getaway options in West Yellowstone for small and large groups alike. We look forward to helping you make it a summer to remember and can’t wait to see you in Montana soon.
No matter when you have the opportunity to visit Yellowstone, it’s a trip well-worth taking. Here, both nature lovers and scenery seekers alike will find reasons to relish in their one-of-a-kind surroundings from the moment they set foot within its parameters. Yellowstone is packed with amazing wildlife, gorgeous landscapes, and mesmerizing geothermal features across its two million acres of terrain, making every visit a unique experience. That said, the time of year you arrive here can certainly affect what you’re able to do and how long you can spend exploring the places you’re more interested in seeing for yourself. The following is a month-by-month breakdown designed to help you and your traveling crew decide when is the best time to visit Yellowstone this year.
Make It a Winter Journey to Remember
If you don’t mind the snow and cold and you’re up for some bundled-up seasonal fun, visiting Yellowstone in the wintertime could be your ideal time of year to travel this way. December officially kicks off the cold-weather season here, and many of the snow coach and snowmobile tours that thrill-seekers can book through the park begin on or around the 15th. While you won’t have opportunities to drive your own vehicle through the park as freely as you would in the summertime due to multiple feet of snow and closed roadways, December is a time of year that’s well adapted to snowshoes in Yellowstone instead. The team at Yellowstone Safari Company begins their guided snowshoe outings this month, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot some incredible elk along the way if your route takes you to higher elevations.
January and February Are Ideal for Those Who Enjoy Off-Season Adventures
Winter is a terrific time to head to Yellowstone when you want to avoid crowds, and you’re willing to pack the extra gear needed to make the most of the great outdoors. January is a particularly popular month for taking in the scenery, as it’s covered in frost and ice. Yes, it’s bound to be frigid, but if you have your hat, boots, thermal gloves, multiple layers, and parkas readily available; there’s no reason you can’t head out in insulated covers and enjoy a stroll through the snow. The average high this time of year is typically around 28 degrees Fahrenheit, which keeps some visitors away, but it is a great time for those who are looking to spot wildlife like wolves, which are easier to spot in the distance against the white snow.
By February, things warm up slightly across Yellowstone’s fascinating ecosystem, but you’re still going to need to pack warm apparel if you want to head out and make the most of winter wildlife watching. February is a great time of year to spot bison sporting their thickest seasonal coasts moving around Mammoth Hot Springs, and it’s also a prime season for spotting coyotes, gray wolves, and red foxes as they begin to emerge in the name of an early breeding season in Yellowstone. If you head this way this time of year, you’ll likely find yourself in the company of dedicated wildlife photographers intent on capturing these snowy shots of amazing creatures at their finest.
Spring Brings New Life, Color, and Adventures to Yellowstone
March marks the beginning of the spring season in Yellowstone, and travelers who are looking to enjoy slightly warmer temperatures at the park compared to winter will be thrilled to find daily highs typically linger around 39 degrees Fahrenheit. That means a bit of snow will start melting away, but not enough to completely thaw out the terrain. Waterproof boots are still very much necessary here in March, and snowmobile tours are typically one of the most popular routes to relishing the scenery with ease alongside a local and knowledgeable guide. If you’re here to see elk, it’s a unique time of year to travel this way because it’s when elk begin to shed their seasonal antlers across Yellowstone. These grow back within 150 to 170 days, but if you happen to see one shedding its antlers in real-time, it’s an incredible scene you won’t soon forget.
By April, more visitors will be making their way to Yellowstone as things warm up, but it’s still very much considered a shoulder travel season in the area. If you decide to lace up your boots and hit the still slightly snowy trails, there’s a good chance you’ll notice melt-off beginning to create noticeable streams along the way. The West entrance of the park opens in April, and more routes are open to four-wheel-drive vehicles this month as well. Wildlife watching only gets better and better by April, as elk and deer alike make their way back to familiar grounds.
May Is a Must for Bear Watching
If you’re someone who has a true passion for spotting bears in the wild, the grizzlies who call Yellowstone home begin coming out from hibernation by May. Many consider this the “true” start to spring, and the viewing opportunities from a safe distance abound. From under the snowy terrain, visitors will also begin to notice spots of green as vegetation makes a seasonal reappearance across the park as well. May is also the month for baby bison to begin making their way into the world at Yellowstone, and their orange coats stand out strikingly in the herd. If you’re traveling to Yellowstone in May and intent on seeking out wildflowers, some of the early bloomers to expect this month include Glacier Lilies, Biscuitroot, Spring Beauties, and Arrowleaf Balsamroot as well. Finally, many visitors this time of year are delighted to find that roads that were closed all winter and early spring are now open for travel. Early May sees the East entrance of the park open up to the public, while mid-May welcomes travelers to use the South Entrance once again. By the end of May, Dunraven Pass to Tower Falls is accessible as well, making the park a place where you can more easily customize your entrance and exit points when planning your trip.
Spend Summer Embracing Amazing Surroundings in Yellowstone
By June, summer is officially in session across Yellowstone, but because some schools let out a bit late, you can possibly still avoid the mid-summer crowds that are guaranteed here by July. Daily highs hit the low 60s this month and there’s typically plenty of sunshine to go around which inevitably melts off any remaining snow at a faster rate. Still, if you want to cool down, hiking higher elevation trails in Yellowstone this time of year comes with access to fresh powder. At lower elevations, wildflowers are in bloom and among the lupine and Indian paintbrush, you’ll likely see baby deer, moose, and elk roaming.
By July, temperatures are typically at their warmest across Yellowstone, reaching upwards of 90 degrees by midday. The snow has long since gone from the trails so if you’re a hiking enthusiast, this is the time of year to find yourself here with gear in hand. Lines at entrance stations are bound to be significantly longer by July, so planning your entrance times is a must. A good way to ensure your place is to book your spot on a wildlife or nature tour so you can not only avoid crowds but perhaps set your sights on areas you might otherwise overlook. July is a terrific time to get up close to the park’s many geothermal features as well, because higher temperatures dissipate steam, which can block your view in the winter season.
August brings summer to a close with temperatures that still linger in the upper 80s and plenty of sunny days to enjoy. The one disadvantage to an August visit is that the park doesn’t typically see a lot of rain this time of year, so if you’re looking for options to cool off among all that heat, you’re a bit out of luck. As a result, there are also strict fire restrictions in place to be aware of no matter where you roam. That said, August visitors to Yellowstone will be right on time to witness the bison breeding season, which sees competing males putting on an incredible show of strength if you’re lucky enough to witness these matches in real-time.
Fall in Love with Yellowstone This Autumn
With school back in session and summer fading into fall, autumn is a great time to enjoy cooler temperatures across Yellowstone and fewer crowds too. Daily highs in September average around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with the one disadvantage being the increased chances for storms. The cooler weather does come with more active wildlife during the daytimes as opposed to what you might see in the summer, and bull elk and moose will be putting their impressive antlers to use showing off their strength and skills to attract a mate. Grizzly bears are on the hunt for local berries this time of year as they ramp up for an oncoming hibernation once again, and while the daylight time you can set aside to explore Yellowstone is shorter, it’s equally impressive.
It’s fair to say that October is a fan-favorite time of year in Yellowstone among those who have a passion for leaf peeping. Deciduous trees like cottonwood and aspen are the first to turn yellow, while the first week of October typically encompasses the very best time for spotting the most drastic change in hues. You will want to check on road status ahead before heading into Yellowstone in October, because while it’s not a guarantee, a pop-up storm or snowfall can cause some access points to close earlier in the season than originally anticipated.
November brings fall to a close in Yellowstone, and the 7th of the month typically marks the final opportunity for travelers to take full advantage of exploring the park’s roads on their own in a standard highway vehicle. After that, many routes are closed for the wintertime in the name of safety with the exception of the North and Northeast entrance. Of course, even if you arrive later in November, you can simply take a winter-style approach to visiting and plan a snow tour with a guide or head in on foot on your own. Places like the Lamar Valley are extremely active with bison and elk well into November, and bighorn sheep breeding season gets underway this month as well. Long before the largest snowfalls of the year happen, November presents a wonderful chance to explore geothermal features without having to contend with snow on the boardwalks or surrounding trails.
Book a Stay within Easy Reach of Yellowstone Through Sweet Home Montana
The best way to make sure you make the most of your Yellowstone experience, no matter what month or season you arrive, is to book inviting and conveniently located accommodations that keep you close to the fun and living in style! That’s exactly what you can expect and more when you partner with Sweet Home Montana for your rental the next time you’re here. We live where we work, and our team of property professionals always pairs incredible rental options for our guests with exceptional and insightful customer service standards as well. We can just as easily help you find the right home away from home for your stay as we can advise you about local events, activities, and attractions to check out that are sure to make your stay even more memorable. We offer terrific lodging options in every season and know where to go whether the snow is falling or the sun is up and temperatures are on the rise across Yellowstone.
No matter when you arrive, how long you have to spare in the name of vacation fun, or how many others you’re traveling alongside, we’re ready and waiting to help you enjoy your journey in comfort, convenience, and style. Reach out today to learn more about our portfolio of property options in West Yellowstone and how we can help you customize the details of your accommodations and trip that matter most to you. We’ll handle the details while you focus exclusively on the fun ahead and we very much look forward to seeing you in Yellowstone soon!
Memorial Day has always been considered the kickoff to summer, and even as we love winter here in West Yellowstone, we are equally in love with not having to wear winter parkas and boots every day. If your Montana vacation plans bring you to our West Yellowstone home for a stay in our Sweet Home Montana holiday hideaways, you may be wondering about what all there is to do in the area over Memorial Day, and we want to make sure that you don’t miss out on a single wonderful activity. This guide to planning a 2025 Memorial Day getaway to West Yellowstone will help you make memories you will never want to forget.
Baby Fever
While this first activity probably isn’t one you would have come up with all on your own, we bet it ends up being the one you remember the fondest, as the animal babies of West Yellowstone are just so darn cute. Memorial Day Weekend is smack dab in the middle of baby season in this part of the world, starting in late April and ending sometime around mid-June, and even we get giddy when we unexpectedly come across baby bison running behind their mamas. You don’t even have to visit Yellowstone National Park to see the mamas and babies roaming around the countryside; you may catch sight of doe and fawn while sitting on the back deck of your Sweet Home Montana vacation escape.
It’s a Good Time to Visit Old Faithful
As the snow melts and the temperatures begin to rise, you and your family will find yourself wanting to play outside as much as possible, making Memorial Day Weekend the perfect time to explore the awesome and breathtaking Old Faithful geyser. Erupting boiling water approximately 20 times a day, Old Faithful is named for its regular eruptions, changing by only 30 minutes over the years that it has been documented. There are nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone National Park, but Old Faithful is the most famous of all, and your Memorial Day adventures will be enhanced when you visit.
Shop the Sales
Memorial Day is known for a lot of things, including the wonderful sales that take place, and our downtown shops are sure to offer some really good deals on clothing, souvenirs, and just about everything you never knew you needed until you held the item in your hot little hands. Dancing Moose Gifts (108 N Canyon Street) offers souvenirs, gifts, tee shirts, and pizza, and we all know that there is never a bad time for pizza! Forever West (127 Yellowstone Avenue) offers Western style accessories that will serve as a fantastic reminder of your adventures in our Western town. And although we can’t tell you if there will be any sales going on at Rustic Candy (33 N Canyon Street), we can tell you that a visit to this hot spot will certainly sweeten your disposition! Also selling gifts and souvenirs, if you can’t find what you’re looking for at Rustic Candy, who cares? There’s candy!
Get Back to Nature
The real draw to this part of the world is the beauty of our countryside, offering a serene and tranquil vibe to whatever adventure you are enjoying, and there are so many ways to play outside, you may never want to go back inside again! Fish on the Madison River, hike along the Fairy Falls Trail, mountain bike along many of the same trails you may hike along, or simply explore all that our West Yellowstone Heritage Park has to offer with your family. Featuring picnic tables and grills, you may want to take Memorial Day to enjoy a picnic in the park, grilling your catch of the day, and savoring every bite. A playground will thrill the youngest members of your traveling party while also giving parents some time to sit and relax in the sunshine as they watch the littles scrambling over the equipment. Although there is nothing on the calendar as of this writing, there are often special events such as car shows and holiday celebrations that take place in the park, adding a little something extra to your day in the park adventures.
Bring the Celebration Home to Sweet Home Montana
Our holiday hideaways offer all the elements necessary for an idyllic Memorial Day family celebration, offering lakefront escapes where you can dock your rental boat and spend the day exploring the water, hot tubs on the decks that are open to the skies, barbecue grills, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor tables for a family barbecue that will never be forgotten and may become one of your favorite traditions. Watch the sunset from a comfortable perch on the balcony, waking early and sitting with a cup of coffee in the same spot as the sun rises. Every adventure will be your favorite when you choose Sweet Home Montana for your holiday retreat. Reserve your favorite property today!
Summer in West Yellowstone may be our favorite time of the year and now is the best time to start planning your own Montana summer vacation. Winter may not be done with you as you read this, stomping into the spring season and throwing a temper tantrum in the form of an early spring snowstorm, but in your dreams, you are somewhere warm, somewhere lush and green, and somewhere that has played a significant role in history; in your dreams you are exploring all that West Yellowstone has to offer during the long and lazy days of summer. We at Sweet Home Montana can help you make those dreams come true with this guide to getting a head start on your summer vacation planning in West Yellowstone, as well as showing you all the comforts found in our vacation retreats!
Packing Your Suitcase
Sometimes packing for vacation can be the most difficult part of your planning experience, but we can make it easier for you, offering tips and hints that will make your suitcase one that is well-packed. Even in the summer months it can get cool at night and the daytime temperatures rarely top the mid-80s, so we suggest packing so you can dress in layers. Tee shirts, jeans, flannel shirts, and a jacket are the best articles of clothing for your adventures, and because you will be spending a lot of time outside hiking and looking at the wildlife, your most comfortable hiking shoes are highly recommended. Sunglasses and sunscreen will help keep you comfortable against the summer sun, and of course, cameras and binoculars will ensure that you not only spot all the different species of wildlife, but that you can capture their images forever.
Planning Your Adventures
A West Yellowstone vacation is unlike any others, celebrating the beauty of the countryside, the wildlife that inhabit the region, and offering a peek into history that will fascinate and entertain and there are many ways in which you can explore it all. You could just get in your rental car, drive around and stop whenever you see other cars stopped, knowing that the group of people you spy have probably spotted a moose or a bison. Or you could check out the tours that are offered in the area first, getting an idea as to what you may want to explore in more detail later on in your vacation. Tour companies such as Fly Yellowstone (629 Airport Rd) or Yellowstone Expeditions (536 Firehole Avenue) offer some really excellent tours of the area, giving visitors a Yellowstone experience they will never forget. Fly Yellowstone covers the area from the sky, offering 30-, 45-, and 60-minute flights through the big skies of Montana, while Yellowstone Expeditions keeps their adventurers’ feet on the ground, offering van tours of the area and the opportunity for many exciting wildlife encounters.
Where to Eat
The culinary landscape of West Yellowstone is surprising in its variety, and although you can’t really plan what type of food you may be in the mood for in advance, at least you will know what to expect. A Bad Dog sandwich at Beartooth Barbecue (smoked sausage topped with chopped beef brisket on a hoagie), tacos from Taqueria Malverde Taco Bus, and the ultimate breakfast sandwich served at Ernie’s, a favorite spot known for its great food and friendly service. These are just an example of some of the delights you can enjoy during your time in West Yellowstone, meals that will haunt your dreams in the most exciting of ways once sampled.
The Plan to Relax
Perhaps the most important part of your summer vacation planning schedule is the plans you will make to relax as often as possible. Real life is hectic, busy, and chaotic and the serenity of the landscape of West Yellowstone combined with the comforts and luxuries found in our West Yellowstone summer sanctuaries will provide the perfect counterbalance to your real life woes. Choose an escape with a bubbling hot tub on back decks, watching the sun set as you sip chardonnay and savor the jets that are hitting all the right spots. Plan a night at home playing board games, streaming music, and staying warm in front of a roaring fire or pencil in an all-American barbecue enjoyed on the deck of a cabin offering panoramic views of the West Yellowstone countryside. And when the moon rises over that landscape and you can’t keep your eyelids open another second, our tranquil bedrooms are where you will get the best night’s sleep of your life. Wake up every morning feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready for more West Yellowstone adventures. Reserve your favorite Sweet Home Montana summer sanctuary today!
An Easter vacation in West Yellowstone may look a little different than ones you are used to, but that’s ok, everyone’s routine deserves a little shakeup every once in a while, and we at Sweet Home Montana assure you, you will love the differences. Sometimes the same old, same old can feel like a rut, rather than a treasured tradition, and as you explore all the ways your Easter celebration will be different while appreciating those traditions you aren’t willing to skip, the comforts of our holiday hideaways will add an extra layer of wonderful to a vacation that will only get more loved with each passing day. This guide to planning an Easter 2025 getaway you will never forget may lead to a new tradition, that of spending every Easter in Montana with us!
The Preparations
If you are traveling with kids, there are some very important questions that you must answer for them, including how will the Easter Bunny know where they are? You can reassure them that Mr. Hoppy will know exactly where they are during their spring adventures, and then, when you get here, you can hop on over to Market Place, located at 22 Madison Avenue, and pick up all the supplies needed for an Easter basket they will never forget. This is a smaller market, but they always surprise us at how well stocked they are, and the items found on the shelves are of good quality, ensuring that parents—um, we mean the Easter Bunny—will feel good about what they are giving the kiddos. You can also get eggs for boiling at the Market Place, and just as you do at home, boil them and decorate them with your favorite tiny travelers.
Sunrise Moments
At home, you may be used to waking for sunrise service, and there are many local churches in West Yellowstone that will welcome you to their own services, but what if this was the year you changed things up and spent this sunrise communing with nature? The balcony or back deck of your Sweet Home Montana holiday hideaway may offer the perfect spot to view that sunrise, and as you sit and savor the serenity and peace of a Yellowstone sky at dawn, these few quiet moments will soothe your soul and calm your heart. If you don’t want to skip your tradition altogether, it is extremely likely your home church streams their service, and our escapes provide high-speed internet for quick and seamless streaming.
A Meal to Remember
They haven’t quite released any info on restaurants serving Easter brunch as of yet this year, but going off previous years, we believe that not only will Running Bear Pancake House be open and serving their regular menu, but they will also serve some dishes that are Easter inspired. Located at 538 Madison Avenue and providing a menu filled with all your favorite comfort foods (You MUST try their cinnamon roll cakes for a sweet start to your day), mom will be thrilled that she doesn’t have to cook, kids will be thrilled to try those cinnamon roll cakes, and no one will have to worry about leaving the restaurant still feeling hungry.
Hoppy Easter!
For many who stay with us, exploring all the comforts offered in our Sweet Home Montana retreats, and at Easter, this is even more true. Our spaces are designed to add serenity to your vacation adventures, and as you sit in front of a roaring fire filling your kids’ Easter baskets with the goodies you bought earlier, you may be feeling especially serene, especially if you are doing so while sipping from a glass of wine. Watch your favorite Easter movies on state of the art televisions, munching on the candy you placed in your own basket, (no one is too old for an Easter basket) and maybe take a much needed nap after your early awakening. The Easter Bunny will find plenty of places to hide the colorful eggs you decorated previously, and if the weather doesn’t cooperate, hide them inside and stay warm and happy while your kiddos burn off some excess energy. Your regular Easter traditions can all be followed at home in our Montana Easter escapes. And who knows? You may find that traveling to West Yellowstone over this holiday is destined to be your newest tradition.
But Wait, There’s More!
Easter Weekend also happens to coincide with National Parks Week, taking place April 19th through April 27th and for that week, entrance fees are waived, making a visit to Yellowstone National Park a very budget friendly vacation activity. Spend your days exploring the beauty of the park, your Easter day celebrating the holiday, and sleep happily and peacefully every night of your stay. Reserve your favorite holiday hideaway today!
Spring hits differently in West Yellowstone as winter lingers in the early part and the promise of a beautiful sunny day is celebrated later on in the season, generally with the first sightings of baby animals serving as a harbinger that spring has officially sprung! Offering fields blanketed with snow and meadows filled with the colorful beauty of wildflowers, this is a season of contrasts and all you have to decide is which version of spring you prefer. We at Sweet Home Montana have created this guide to the best outdoor spring activities in West Yellowstone which will paint a picture of a vacation that you will never forget, especially when you come home to our seasonal sanctuaries every night of your stay.
Wildlife Adventures
In the early part of spring, March and early April, the babies won’t be out as of yet, but it can still be fun figuring out to whom the tracks you see in the snow belong. Hiking is a great way to get out and explore and although you won’t need to practice your new snowshoeing skills, there will be snow and if you are out early enough you may catch sight of the tracks of the shyer animals, such as cougar, bobcats, lynx, and badgers. In the late spring, however, April and May, the chances of seeing all manner of baby animals are indeed excellent and can include bear cubs, baby bison, and elk, simply by driving through the area or maybe even during your hikes. Just remember to view from a distance and no matter how adorable the babies are, their mamas are that much more protective and they will not be happy if you appear to be threatening their children, even if you aren’t trying to be threatening. Stay further back and use the telephoto lens on your camera to get the close ups you crave.
Mush Puppies
No, we didn’t make a typo there, we really did mean mush as dog sledding is a popular activity in the area in March. Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures, 406-223-5134, is going to be the closest to your Home Sweet Montana spring sanctuary, offering 2.5-hour dog sledding trips (Learn to Mush) through April 1st. Anyone over 120 pounds can drive their own sled, and a heated base camp, campfire, snacks, and hot beverages will add to your joy in this adventure, but of course, nothing will excite you more than the beautiful furry puppies who will be leading you through the snow! Also offering a Dog Sled Immersive Experience that you can add on to your tour for an additional fee, participants will get to enjoy a hands on experience with the fur babies, learning about their food, how to harness and unharness them, and the tricks of the trade on how to handle them.
Take Pretty Pictures
Once you arrive, you will see how we downplayed that sentence there, as the pictures you take will be thrilling, stunning, extraordinary, and far more than just pretty. It will be impossible to take bad pictures, even with just a phone camera, so if you don’t have a fancy camera with all the bells and whistles, that’s ok, the pictures you take will still be frame worthy whether you are standing at the lookout spot that overlooks Gibbon Falls (which will be spectacularly swollen with water from the snow melt) or you simply pulled over on the side of the road to capture that shot of mama and baby bison strolling down the street together. Another popular spot, the Horse Butte Overlook, offers panoramic views of the Gallatin Mountain Range that surrounds you and Hebgen Lake, which leads us to our next outdoor spring adventure.
Fishing at Hebgen Lake
Although summer is primarily thought of as prime fishing season, after the ice melts on Hebgen Lake in the spring is an awesome time to catch some trout, especially as they will be really hungry after lying low through the window. Fly fishing for trout is legendary at this wonderful lake and fishermen and women make their way to the shores from all over the world to catch their limit. And when you catch yours, bringing your catch home to cook on the grill in the backyard of your seasonal escape, adding an extra element of wonderful to your outdoor experiences during your spring shenanigans in West Yellowstone!
Savor the Sunset
After spending your daylight hours exploring the grandeur of Mother Nature during your West Yellowstone trip of a lifetime, coming home to Sweet Home Montana will give you more ways to enjoy her bounty. Watching the sun set over the mountains from comfy chairs on the back deck can also bring more wildlife adventures as timid animals step from the safety of the tree line, perhaps with babies in tow. Reserve your favorite escape today!