Visiting Yellowstone in May + Tips & FAQs

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Considering visiting Yellowstone National Park in May?

Unsure about whether visiting Yellowstone National Park in the spring months is a good idea? I totally understand that feeling. While Daniel and I have usually opted for the summer or fall months to visit, May has become one of my new favorite times to go–especially if you plan on seeing wildlife out and about.

However, there are some unique challenges that you have to deal with when coming to the park during this time. Some roads are closed during the beginning of the month and might remain so if there is snowfall. Not all facilities are open, and it might be more difficult to find accommodations.

I’ll walk you through what you can expect when visiting during May and how you should plan out your trip, as well as some information on road closures and where you can find places to stay and eat when there are fewer options.

In summary: This article will cover what you need to know about visiting Yellowstone in May, including weather, wildlife spotting, and more.

Quick tip: If you want to see wildlife, plan on getting up early since that’s when animals are most active. Just make sure you have enough layers to stay warm during the brisk mornings!

Getting around Yellowstone in May

When Daniel and I visited Yellowstone in May, we found that most roads were open, though some higher-elevation routes like Dunraven Pass might still be closed due to snow. The road from Mammoth Hot Springs to Old Faithful is usually accessible, but conditions can change quickly. I always recommend checking the park’s road status website before heading out.

Do keep in mind too that not all roads are open to the public during this time, so you might be limited on what you can see. The map below shows what dates certain roads are open and what time of year so you can plan accordingly.

Weather in Yellowstone in May

May weather in Yellowstone is incredibly unpredictable–I’ve experienced everything from snow to 70-degree days in a single trip! Pack layers because mornings typically start in the 30s and afternoons can reach the 60s. Rain is common, and you might encounter lingering snow, especially at higher elevations.

This table below represents the temperatures you can typically expect during this time of year.

Date	Average High (°F)	Average Low (°F)
May 1	51	27
May 11	54	30
May 21	57	33
May 31	60	35

Camping in Yellowstone in May

Not all Yellowstone campgrounds are open in May, but we’ve had great experiences at Mammoth and Bridge Bay, which typically open earlier in the season. Pack for cold nights–when Daniel and I camped in May, temperatures dropped into the 30s! Make reservations well in advance since available sites are limited since most campgrounds are closed.

Where to stay in Yellowstone in May

Most of the lodging within the park doesn’t open until late May, so you will have to look for accommodations outside the park if you are looking to visiting during the early parts of the month. The hotels in West Yellowstone are often your best bet when it comes to finding hotels near the park that are open.

Crowds in Yellowstone in May

May is one of my favorite times to visit because the summer crowds haven’t hit yet. While you’ll see more people around Old Faithful and other major attractions, the park feels much more peaceful than during peak season. Parking is generally easier to find, though weekends can still get busy.

This is one of the main reasons why I recommend visiting this time of year! If you aren’t into sharing some of the top attractions in the park like Norris Geyser Basin and the Grand Prismatic Spring, then this can be one of the best time to visit.

Wildlife spotting in Yellowstone in May

This is prime time for wildlife viewing! During our May visits, we’ve had incredible luck spotting baby bison in Lamar Valley and bears emerging from hibernation. Dawn and dusk are your best bet for wildlife, and I recommend bringing binoculars–wildlife is active but might keep their distance. Remember too to keep your distance, as well!

Hiking in Yellowstone in May

Lower-elevation trails around Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley are usually accessible, though you might encounter some snow and mud. I always bring trekking poles this time of year since trails can be slippery. Higher elevation hikes like Mount Washburn often remain snow-covered until June or July.

One thing I will say is that the temperatures are fantastic for hitting the trail this time of year. It doesn’t get too hot, and you’ll have many of them to yourself. Just be warned that this is a very active time for wildlife, so you’ll want to bring your bear spray with you and make sure you have plenty of distance from any animals you see. With babies around, they’re extra protective!

Facilities start to open in Yellowstone in May

Most major facilities start opening in May, but it’s a gradual process. Old Faithful Inn typically opens mid-month, while some smaller visitor centers might still be closed. I always check the park’s website before visiting and make lodging reservations well in advance since options can be limited–and don’t expect to add all the visitor centers on your list of things to do while you are there.

Pros of visiting Yellowstone in May

Here are some reasons why you might want to consider visiting Yellowstone during the month of May.

• Significantly fewer crowds than summer months
• Prime wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for baby animals
• More affordable lodging rates than peak season
• Beautiful spring wildflowers starting to bloom
• Dramatic scenery with snow-capped mountains Easier to get dinner reservations at popular restaurants
• Better parking availability at major attractions
• Waterfalls are spectacular with spring runoff
• Comfortable hiking temperatures for most of the day

Cons of visiting Yellowstone in May

Here are some reasons why you might want to avoid visiting the park during this time of year.

• Unpredictable weather conditions
• Some roads and trails might still be closed due to snow
• Not all facilities and services are open yet
• Evening temperatures can still drop below freezing
• Some backcountry areas are inaccessible
• Higher chance of rain/snow affecting plans
• Limited camping options as some campgrounds remain closed
• Water activities might be restricted due to spring runoff
• Some hiking trails might be muddy or snow-covered

Tips for visiting Yellowstone in May

Here are some tips I’ve personally found helpful for our visits to Yellowstone during the month of May.

• Make lodging reservations several months in advance: Since there aren’t as many options open, it can be difficult to find accommodations if you don’t take the time to plan in advance.
• Pack layers: It’s not uncommon to experience rainfall during May, so a rain jacket and a puffy jacket are must-haves for the colder weather you might run into.
• Check road conditions daily before heading out: You might even have to deal with snow during this time of year! Keeping any eye on the status of the roads will keep you from driving to an area you can’t access and ruining your day.
• Bring bear spray: Bears are out and about this time of year! If you plan on hiking, bear spray should be with you at all times–remember to keep it in an accessible spot!
• Expect restaurants in Yellowstone to be full: Not all of them will be open this time of year, and the ones that are will probably be packed. I recommend you check out my guide on this so you can see if you can make reservations in advance.

Yellowstone in May FAQs

Here are some common questions I get from readers and clients looking to visit Yellowstone in May.

Conclusion

Personally, if I want to avoid people and really experience the park come alive during the spring, May is a great time to go. While you will be dealing with some variable weather–even snow–the wildlife spotting, lower temps, and fewer people visiting are all reasons to consider heading to the park during this time of year.

Have any questions about visiting Yellowstone in May? Let me know in the comments!