Spring in Yellowstone
Spring in Yellowstone: Your Guide to an Iconic, Crowd-Free Adventure
Spring is one of the most spectacular times to visit Yellowstone National Park. As the snow begins to melt and wildlife starts to emerge, the park transforms into a wonderland filled with natural beauty, thrilling sights, and opportunities to experience Yellowstone in its most serene state. Whether you’re biking quiet roads before the park reopens to vehicles, fly fishing in thermally heated rivers and streams, or spotting baby bison (known locally as red dogs), spring in Yellowstone offers unlimited unforgettable moments.
Need inspiration? Explore Our Spring Itineraries Here
TOP THINGS TO DO IN YELLOWSTONE THIS SPRING
Spring Biking: A Rare Opportunity to Pedal the Park
For a couple of weeks before roads reopen to vehicles, Yellowstone welcomes bikers to explore its quiet, traffic-free roads. Pedal past steaming geysers, thundering waterfalls, and expansive valleys teeming with Yellowstone’s esteemed wildlife. For an extra boost, bring or rent an e-bike for a leisurely ride through the park. Bikes are welcome in Yellowstone for the entire warm season, but spring offers an extra special way to experience the park on two wheels. Learn all about biking inside Yellowstone here.
Wildlife Watching: Meet Yellowstone’s Red Dogs
Spring is baby season in Yellowstone (our favorite), and nothing makes visitors say “awwww” out loud like spotting the park’s famous red dogs – adorable bison calves with their signature red coats and lack of a hump. Along with bison, this is the season to see bears emerging from hibernation with their cubs, and if you’re extra lucky, playful wolf pups. Yellowstone in spring is truly a wildlife lover’s paradise and with significantly less visitors, opportunities to spot the park’s famed animals are endless.
Pro Tip: Always observe wildlife from a safe distance to protect the animals and yourself. We know, we know, they’re adorable, but we promise mama is always near and she won’t take getting too close to her baby lightly.
Fly Fishing: A Tranquil Angler’s Paradise
Looking for Yellowstone to lure you in? Spring brings some fantastic fishing opportunities inside and outside of the park. Cast your line in legendary waters as snowmelt invigorates the streams and rivers in and around Yellowstone. Here, fly fishing is not just about the catch – it’s about the serenity of the surroundings, the quiet sounds of nature, and the chance to connect with this phenomenal land and its waters. Want all the details on fishing inside Yellowstone National Park? Click here for everything from fishing licenses to fishable rivers.
Iconic Landmarks Without the Crowds
Imagine seeing Yellowstone’s bucket-list locations like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone without the summer crowds. Spring provides a rare chance to enjoy these stunning sights, making your visit even more memorable.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to road closures when visiting in spring months. NPS opens the roads inside Yellowstone gradually so be sure to check their website here before planning your routes. Better yet, book a tour with Yellowstone Vacation Tours. From certified, knowledgeable (and fun) guides to a comfy ride – leave the driving to the experts so you can enjoy every view and every moment.
FAQs about Visiting Yellowstone in SPring
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Layers are key! Spring weather can be unpredictable, and temperatures can fluctuate greatly throughout the day. Pack waterproof gear, warm layers, sturdy shoes that can get wet, and binoculars for wildlife watching.
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Yes! Yellowstone Vacations offers guided tours with certified expert guides who can help you spot wildlife, learn about geothermal features, and make the most of your trip.
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Late April through early June offers the best opportunities for biking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
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The Camp Host at Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone offers complimentary bike rentals for guests to explore the town of West Yellowstone, and also rents e-bikes, for a comfortable and eco-friendly way to explore the park. Learn more about biking here.
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National Park Service has a plethora of information on their site including ordering fishing permits online. Visit their site here.
DISCOVER
At Yellowstone National Park, the opportunities for adventure are endless. Plan your adventure today.
TOURS & RENTALS
Experience an up-close view of the park, while learning about the fascinating history and wildlife.
