How deep does the snow get in Yellowstone?

Yellowstone National Park, famous for its geysers and wildlife, also experiences some of the harshest and most beautiful winters in North America. Snowfall here isn't just a light dusting—it’s a defining part of the park’s environment for nearly half the year. So how deep does the snow get in Yellowstone? The answer depends on where and when you visit, but in many parts of the park, the snow reaches several feet deep and stays for months at a time.

Yellowstone National Park in Winter

A High-Elevation Winter Wonderland

One key reason for Yellowstone’s deep snow is its elevation. The park ranges from about 5,300 feet (1,615 meters) near Gardiner, Montana (North Entrance), to over 11,000 feet (3,350 meters) in mountainous areas like the Absaroka and Gallatin Ranges. At these altitudes, temperatures stay cold enough for snow to accumulate and remain on the ground long after other places have thawed.

Snow typically starts falling in October or November, with significant accumulation by December. It continues through March and April, sometimes even into May or June at higher elevations. In some areas, snow depth builds gradually to several feet thick and forms a compact snowpack that can take weeks to melt in the spring.

Average Snow Depth Across the Park

Snow depth varies depending on the location, elevation, and time of year. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect in different regions of Yellowstone:

1. Old Faithful Area (7,300 feet):

This iconic geyser basin sees some of the heaviest and most consistent snow accumulation. By mid-winter (January through March), snow depth typically ranges from 3 to 5 feet (about 1 to 1.5 meters) on average.

2. Yellowstone Lake and Fishing Bridge (7,700 feet):

The snow here can be even deeper than at Old Faithful, often reaching 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) in mid-winter. Snow piles along the lake’s shorelines and remains well into the spring.

3. Norris Geyser Basin and Canyon Area (7,500–8,000 feet):

These areas receive high snowfall totals and see average snow depths of 3 to 6 feet during peak winter. Snow tends to linger here due to dense forests and cold air trapping in the canyons.

4. Mount Washburn and the Higher Backcountry (>9,000 feet):

In the park's mountainous terrain, snowfall is much heavier. Snow can accumulate to over 10 feet (3 meters) in these areas, particularly on windward slopes. Backcountry travelers often encounter deep drifts and cornices, with snowpack lasting into June or July.

5. Mammoth Hot Springs (6,200 feet):

As one of the lower and drier areas, Mammoth gets less snow than the rest of the park. Average depths range from 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm), but snowfall still creates a winter wonderland effect, especially around the terraces.

6. Lamar Valley and Northern Range (6,000–7,000 feet):

These valleys receive moderate snowfall, and snow depth can range from 1 to 3 feet, though drifts near hills and rivers may be deeper. The Lamar Valley is also one of the best places to see wildlife in winter thanks to its open terrain and relatively accessible roads.

How Long Does the Snow Last?

In lower elevations like Gardiner and Mammoth, snow may melt intermittently throughout the winter. However, in the park’s central plateau and highlands, snow remains for 4 to 6 months or longer. In fact, some high trails and alpine zones are not snow-free until July, especially during years of heavy snowfall.

The depth and duration of snow in Yellowstone also affect road openings in spring. Plowing operations typically begin in March, but many roads don’t fully reopen until mid-to-late May—and some even later depending on conditions.

Yellowstone National Park in Winter

Snow Monitoring and Snowpack

Yellowstone’s snow is carefully monitored by scientists and park officials due to its role in water supply, wildlife habitat, and visitor safety. The snowpack, or accumulated layers of compressed snow, is crucial for spring runoff, feeding rivers like the Yellowstone, Snake, and Madison.

The Snow Telemetry (SNOTEL) stations throughout the park measure snow water equivalent (SWE), which helps hydrologists predict river flow and flooding risk in the spring. In heavy snow years, SWE can exceed 200% of average, contributing to major melt-off events.

Exploring Yellowstone’s Deep Snow

If you're visiting Yellowstone in winter, it’s important to be prepared for deep snow—especially if you're heading off the main roads:

◉ Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are the most popular ways to explore snowy areas.

◉ Snowcoach and snowmobile tours allow access to places where roads are buried under several feet of snow.

◉ Hiking is limited due to deep drifts, icy conditions, and wildlife safety concerns.

Always dress in layers, wear waterproof boots, and bring winter survival essentials when venturing out in snowy conditions.

Conclusion

So, how deep does the snow get in Yellowstone? In many areas, 3 to 6 feet of snow is common, and the mountains can receive over 10 feet. This snow defines the park’s winter season, transforming its landscape into a pristine and dramatic wilderness where wildlife moves quietly, steam rises from geothermal features, and silence settles over snowy forests. Whether you're planning a visit or just marveling at the park’s natural extremes, Yellowstone’s deep snow is one of its most striking and powerful features.