Yellowstone Weather in July: What to Expect and What to Pack
Monthly averages are NOAA 1991-2020 climate normals. Check the NPS alerts page for road and trail closures before you go.
By John Love I've been here · Sept 2025Facts checked against NPS.gov · Updated October 6, 2026July in Yellowstone81°F days, 48°F nights at Mammoth Hot Springs (6,195 ft), with about 1.3 inches of precipitation. The warmest month (highs near 81°F at Mammoth, cooler at Lake and Old Faithful), with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Peak crowds; nights can still drop into the 40s or lower.
How elevation changes the weather in Yellowstone
Estimated average high and low for each area in July, highest first. Air cools about 3.5°F for every 1,000 feet you climb, so the same day can feel like two different seasons.
- 8,859 ftDunraven Pass72° / 39°
- 7,782 ftYellowstone Lake75° / 42°
- 6,200 ftMammoth Hot Springs81° / 48°
Estimates based on the long-term average at Mammoth Hot Springs (6,195 ft). Check the live forecast for each area above before you go.
July compared with the months around it
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Precipitation | Snowfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June | 70°F | 42°F | 1.9 in | 0.3 in |
| July | 81°F | 48°F | 1.3 in | 0.0 in |
| August | 80°F | 46°F | 1.1 in | 0.0 in |
July is 11°F warmer than June by day, and August cools another 1°F.
Weather hazards to plan for
- Sudden snowstorms and whiteouts any month at high elevations, including Dunraven Pass and Sylvan Pass, can close roads with little notice.
- Afternoon lightning storms in July and August on exposed ridges, open valleys and lakeshores.
- Extreme winter cold, with nights well below 0°F at Lake, Old Faithful and West Yellowstone; frostbite and hypothermia risk for oversnow travelers.
- Cold water: Yellowstone Lake stays very cold year-round, and capsized boaters can quickly become hypothermic even in summer.
- Wildfire smoke and haze in mid-to-late summer, plus icy, snow-packed roads in spring and fall shoulder seasons.
What to pack for Yellowstone in July
Picked from Yellowstone's average weather in July.
Nights average 48°F at Mammoth Hot Springs, and higher campgrounds run colder. A bag rated about 10°F below the low keeps you warm.
Shop at Coleman
Afternoon thunderstorms are common here in July. A full-coverage rainfly keeps you and your gear dry, and a rain jacket belongs in every day pack.
Shop at ColemanRain jacket on Amazon
With nights near 48°F, hot meals and drinks make mornings much easier. Stoves are usually allowed even when campfires are banned.
Shop at Coleman
In bear country, coolers must go in your vehicle or a food locker when not in use.
Shop at ColemanSome links above are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How this works
Yellowstone in July: questions
What is the weather like in Yellowstone in July?
At Mammoth Hot Springs (6,195 ft), July averages 81°F by day and 48°F at night, with about 1.3 inches of precipitation. The warmest month (highs near 81°F at Mammoth, cooler at Lake and Old Faithful), with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Peak crowds; nights can still drop into the 40s or lower.
How cold does Yellowstone get at night in July?
Nights average 48°F at Mammoth Hot Springs. Up at Dunraven Pass (8,859 ft) expect it about 9°F colder, near 39°F.
Does it snow in Yellowstone in July?
Not at Mammoth Hot Springs, where July averages no snowfall.
How does July compare with June?
July averages 81°F by day, 11°F warmer than June, and August averages 80°F.
What should I wear in Yellowstone in July?
Plan for light layers and a rain jacket. Check the forecast for each area you will visit a few days before you go.
More for your Yellowstone trip
- Yellowstone National Park guideFees, hours, maps, where to stay and a first-day plan.
- Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National ParkWhen to visit Yellowstone, month by month: road opening and closing dates, crowds, weather, wildlife timing and what is open in each season.
- How Many Days Do You Need in Yellowstone?How many days to spend in Yellowstone, with 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-day itineraries by area, NPS drive times around the Grand Loop and where to base yourself.
- Best Hikes in Yellowstone National ParkThe best day hikes in Yellowstone, from the Grand Prismatic Overlook to Mount Washburn and Avalanche Peak, with NPS distances, elevation gain and 2026 closures.
- Camping in Yellowstone National Park: Campgrounds, Reservations and TipsAll 11 Yellowstone campgrounds with 2026 dates, fees and RV limits, how six-month reservations work, the 2027 move to Recreation.gov and backcountry permits.