When to Go

There are two major seasons in Yellowstone: summer (May–October), the only time when most of the park's roads are open to cars; and winter (mid-December–February), when over-snow travel—on snowmobiles, snowcoaches, and skis—delivers a fraction of the number of summer visitors to a frigid, bucolic sanctuary. Except for services at park headquarters at Mammoth Hot Springs, the park closes from mid-October to mid-December and from March to late April or early May.

You'll find the biggest crowds in July and August. If planning to visit at this time, book hotel accommodations inside or even near the park months in advance, and prepare for heavy traffic on park roads and parking areas. There are fewer people in the park the month or two before and after this peak season, but there are also fewer facilities open. In spring, there's also more rain, especially at lower elevations. Except for holiday weekends, there are few visitors in winter. Snow is possible year-round at high elevations.

Festivals and Events

Cody Stampede Rodeo. The "Rodeo Capital of the World" has hosted the Stampede, one of the most important stops on the rodeo circuit, since 1919. The main event takes place at Cody Rodeo Grounds for several days around the July 4 holiday, and there are nightly performances at the Cody Nite Rodeo. www.codystampederodeo.com.

Livingston Roundup Rodeo. Since the 1920s, the lively Montana town of Livingston has celebrated July 4 with riding, roping, bull-dogging, and barrel racing at the Roundup Rodeo. The revelry includes a parade, a three-day art show, and the crowning of the rodeo queen. www.livingstonroundup.com.

Rendezvous Royale. Thomas Molesworth and his renowned Western furniture helped put Cody on the map when he moved here in the 1930s. This multiday festival held in late September celebrates his legacy with an art show, auctions, a quick-draw competition, and a major furniture exhibition. www.rendezvousroyale.org.