What to Bring
Changeable is the buzzword for weather in Yellowstone National Park. One minute you could be walking down a trail in the bright sunshine and the next minute be caught in a storm. But don't get nervous and stay indoors: just be prepared!
In the Summer
Packing a number of layers that you can add and remove as the weather changes is the best way to ensure you'll be comfortable. A wind and waterproof layer, especially for longer hikes, is always recommended. Except for the hottest of days, a layer of fleece or a sweater and long underwear is a welcome bonus if temperatures should begin to drop unexpectedly.
A dry shirt or layer of polypropylene can be handy if you work up a sweat and run into a headwind. A hat with a brim and sunglasses are a must for avoiding sunburn and the glare of the sun. (The radiant strength of sunlight is greater at higher elevations than at sea level.)
A good pair of waterproof, broken-in boots can be the difference between feet ready to go all day and feet lumpy with blisters. Summer days are usually warm and sunny, so don't forget the shorts too.
In the Winter
The same approach to dressing applies in the winter, only more so. Thicker and additional layers of fleece, wool, or capilene underneath the critical wind and waterproof layer will help you ignore the frigid temperatures and have fun. If you're going to be perspiring avoid cotton, as it has very poor insulating abilities when moist.
Carry this stuff around like the locals do using a day pack. It's a great place for the extra clothing, snacks, water, sunscreen, cameras, binoculars, and everything else you might need for enjoying the great outdoors comfortably and safely.
Dress Code
The rule of thumb is wear what's comfortable. Yellowstone is mostly informal, although you might want to wear a collared shirt at some of the fancier dining rooms in the park.
Child Care
If you need a break from the demands of parenthood, try Little Geysers Child Care Center at 406-646-7011 or call our Chamber of Commerce at 1-406-646-7701 for additional options.
Health & Safety
At 6,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level, the air in Yellowstone Country can be thin and dry. The reduced amount of oxygen at these elevations can affect pre-existing medical conditions, especially respiratory problems. Symptoms like headaches, increased pulse, shortness of breath, higher blood pressure, nose bleeds, insomnia, loss of appetite, fatigue and even some swelling of the feet and ankles are occasionally experienced. Seek medical assistance if symptoms like these persist or become severe.
Most people adapt quickly to the altitude. However, lowlanders should take time to get acclimated. Instead of rushing up into the mountains for an ambitious hike on day one, relax and let the body adjust. Drink more water than you think you need. Dehydration is commonplace in Yellowstone because the relative humidity is much lower in the mountains than it is at sea level. Once you feel thirsty, it's too late: you're already dehydrated.
For people heading into the mountains, especially those who plan to sleep above 8,000 feet, mountain sickness can be an issue. Symptoms are the same as those listed above. They generally disappear within 48 hours with sufficient fluid intake and rest. If symptoms worsen, it is important to descend to a lower elevation immediately as it is possible - albeit unusual at this relatively low altitude - that one is experiencing the onset of High Altitude Cerebral Edema, an acute, life-threatening syndrome that has taken the lives of many high altitude climbers in the Himalayas.