Seasons
spring—may and june
summer—july and august
Temperatures will range from daytime highs in the 60s to lows in the 30s. Layering was invented in Montana—you’ll experience bright sunny days when a brisk morning hike in fleece evolves into t-shirt weather within minutes. A dusting of snow or a brief rain shower is common.
Now is an excellent time to visit Yellowstone Park. The West Entrance normally opens for vehicle travel and visitors on the third Friday of April. The East Entrance normally opens two weeks later and the South Entrance three weeks after the West Entrance. These dates depend on road plowing and snow and ice removal and the weather. Check out Yellowstone Park for more information.
And of course, spring fly fishing is a must for the purist. Snow runoff can muddy some rivers but despite the off-color, anglers will tell you the browns, rainbows, and graylings are eager to take a fly.
You can fish on your own, or make arrangements with our house guide service, Trout Tales Fly Fishing. Note that guides should be booked as far in advance as possible. Visit Trout Tales Fly Fishing and ask for Ian.
It’s also perfect for biking and hiking. And since higher elevations are still snow-covered, snowshoeing is a popular outing. The website, Visit Bozeman, is packed full of ideas, information, and photos.
No crowds
Shopping, restaurants, and live music
Snow-capped mountains
Hungry trout
Excellent time to bike
During our summer months, the sun announces the day around 5:00 a.m. and stars appear at 10:00 that fill the big Montana sky. June, July, and August is the official tourist season. Daytime temperatures are typically in the 80s with no humidity. At night, temps cool off to the 50’s and 60’s.
Montana offers something for everyone. Choose a day-long summit hike, biking, rafting through Montana Whitewater, a spa day at Canyon River Spa, or play at one of the many golf course venues.
These are peak months for fly fishing. You can fish on your own, or make arrangements with our house guide service, Trout Tales Fly Fishing. Note that guides should be booked as far in advance as possible. Visit Trout Tales Fly Fishing and ask for Ian.
You can also experience the 'Music on Main' festival, or just explore downtown shops, restaurants, and breweries. And did we mention a safe, friendly downtown? The website, Visit Bozeman, is packed full of ideas, information, and photos.
Long, warm summer days
Shopping, restaurants, and live music
A bazillion stars at night
Double rainbows
Too many outdoor adventures to mention
fall—september and october
September and October welcome cooler temperatures and the hills come alive with arguably the most spectacular autumn foliage in the country.
Fall is also an excellent time to visit Yellowstone Park—the tourists have returned home and wildlife is preparing for winter. You’ll practically have the Park to yourself.
In the fall, rivers are wide open. You can fish on your own, or make arrangements with our house guide service, Trout Tales Fly Fishing. Note that guides should be booked as far in advance as possible. Visit Trout Tales Fly Fishing and ask for Ian.
It’s still the perfect time to bike, hike, and horseback ride. The website, Visit Bozeman, is packed full of ideas, information, and photos.
Excellent fly fishing
Tourists have left
Visit Yellowstone Park
Extraordinary fall foliage