Yellowstone National Park’s 150th summer celebrations were sadly met with flash flooding that tore through the Northern region of the park, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Support poured into the park and the affected gateway towns and communities in the months that followed. In turn, Yellowstone was able to reopen quickly, exemplifying the dedication our country still has to the preservation of our protected lands. With the busiest season now behind us, the park remains open to visitors ready to bundle up against Western fall and experience the magic of autumn in Yellowstone.
While visiting Yellowstone in the summer has its perks (warmth, sunshine, camping), there’s nothing quite like autumn in the park. Enjoy a moody drive along the canyon with a third of the crowds, allowing you enjoy the fall foliage, steam hanging over the thermal features, and a better chance the see wildlife migration before they hibernate for winter. Now is the best time to see a grizzly bear hunched over her kill, spot an antelope prancing through the sagebrush, or hear the elks buggling at night. Book a tour with JH Wildlife Safaris or JH EcoTour Adventures for an elevated tour through Yellowstone, and be sure to contact us for a discount code when staying in an Outpost vacation rental home.
If you’re looking for a less structured Yellowstone experience, we recommend planning a stop at Mammoth Hot Springs. After a long, dreary mist filled day, there’s nothing like soaking in the warmth of these naturally fed hot springs. Just 5 miles down the road lies charming Gardiner, MT. As the community recovers from the aftermath from the July flooding, continued support for their local businesses is crucial. We recommend stopping by their many antique shops and grabbing a few postcards to send to your friends and family. Make sure to check for any new road closures before you head north.
With snow, rain, and sometimes even sunshine filling our skies throughout the months of October and November, it’s the perfect time to fill your lungs with nostalgic, crisp autumn air. Take a drive through Yellowstone National Park, maybe stop for a brisk walk, and return home to snuggle up to season 5 of the TV show, “Yellowstone.” Who knows, you might even spot some familiar sights!