|
 |
 |
 |
 |
1. What is the best season to visit Yellowstone or Montana?
Truth be told (and that's all we do!) there is no "best season." Some seasons are better for certain values and others are not. For example, winter is not the time for watching bears since they are hibernating. Winter is best for big mammals on big landscapes, including wolves.
Spring is best for bears, wolves, and overall wildlife diversity, but the weather can be very variable. However, odds are weather will be excellent (this is very true).
Fall is a season of color and select wildlife sights associated with breeding. I think of fall as "the season of the rut". This is a great season for watching large grazing animals, both males and females, interacting and courting in complex and dramatic displays. One of the greatest wildlife sights of the world is to observe Bighorn Sheep during the breeding season.
Most visitors come in the summer season, so the roads are busier at that time. The weather is also most accommodating in the summer. Summer is a great season for being at low elevations on rivers, or for being at high elevations where temperatures are cooler.
2. What type of clothing do we need?
Average daytime temperatures mid-winter are about 28'F to 30'F. Winter nighttime temperatures may be less than 10'F. Average summer temperatures may be in the 80's with lows in the 40's. These are averages, so keep in mind the range of temperatures can be quite a bit more dramatic.
The best way to deal with this range of temperatures is to have a layered garment system such as: windproof jacket, vest, sweater, heavy shirt and undergarments.
One rule of thumb: even in summer, consider bringing one more layer than you expect to need.
Of course, in all seasons: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and sturdy walking shoes. Rain gear is also a good idea.
What type of footwear is appropriate?
Footwear is sometimes governed by activity. In general, footwear should be sturdy, broken-in walking shoes. In summer, light hiking shoes are good for day hikes and general touring. Heavier boots are better for backpacking. Snowboots ("PAC" style, or "Sorel" style with rubber bottom and leather upper) are best for snowshoeing. Some type of shoe or sandal which you can get wet and swim in is best for river trips.
How cold does it get?
Average daytime temperatures mid-winter are about 28'F to 30'F. Winter nighttime temperatures may be less than 10'F. Average summer temperatures may be in the 80's with lows in the 40's. These are averages, so keep in mind the range of temperatures can be quite a bit more dramatic.
< Back to FAQs & Links
|
|
|
|
|
