Yellowstone in April: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
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April is one of the best months of the year to visit Yellowstone National Park: crowds run 8% of the July peak (73,470 average visits), days average 41°F with 13.4 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in April
Yellowstone averages 73,470 recreation visits in April — 8% of what July, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — this is genuine quiet-season territory.
Weather & daylight
It is properly cold (highs average 41°F), and nights are frigid (lows average 17°F). Average precipitation is 2.3″ for the month. Mid-month daylight runs 13.4 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station YELLOWSTONE LAKE, WY US (6 mi from park coordinates, 7,835 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of April.
What to pack for Yellowstone in April
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Insulated parka + thermal base layers — average lows of 17°F
- Packable rain jacket — 2.3″ of precipitation is normal this month
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
- Bear spray — recommended by the park in grizzly country (check current park regulations before you carry)
Common questions
Is Yellowstone crowded in April?
No — April is one of the quieter months: 8% of the July peak, averaging 73,470 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Yellowstone in April?
Average highs of 41°F, lows of 17°F, 2.3″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, YELLOWSTONE LAKE, WY US station).
What should I pack for Yellowstone in April?
Insulated parka + thermal base layers; Packable rain jacket; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
Is everything open at Yellowstone in April?
Most park roads close to regular vehicles early November through mid-April (staggered spring reopening); winter access is by guided oversnow travel. Always check the park's live NPS alerts for current conditions.
See also: the best national parks to visit in April · Last verified 2026-07-16