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America’s Rockies & Prairies

From exploring the mesmerising national parks such as Yellowstone, Bryce Canyon, Zion and Mesa Verde, to rafting the mighty Colorado River, horse riding or camping under the stars, America’s Rockies and Prairies provide infinite opportunities for those who are seeking great outdoors adventures.

What you’ll love most about America’s Rockies & Prairies

Options for building a bespoke travel itinerary are endless. Explore by motorhome, SUV or as part of an escorted tour
Authentic cowboy ranches set amongst the wilderness of soaring mountains and sweeping plains make for an amazing wild west adventure
The spectacular scenery makes it a breathtaking place to experience everything from camping, fishing, hiking, kayaking, white water rafting, rugged mountain biking trails, ghost town jaunts and four-wheel-drive tours
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad tour
The wildlife of Yellowstone National Park that includes wild horses, vast bison herds, grizzly bears, wolf packs and bald eagles
The state of Utah is home to the famed Mighty Five National Parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capital Reef & Zion

Holiday Highlights

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

-2℃J
0℃F
4℃M
8℃A
12℃M
17℃J
23℃J
22℃A
17℃S
9℃O
1℃N
-3℃D

13J
11F
14M
13A
12M
10J
5J
6A
7S
10O
12N
13D

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

January

Winter grips much of the Rockies, bringing crisp air and snow-dusted peaks. January mornings are ideal for skiing or snowshoeing, while low-lying prairies are often quiet and still under frost. Sunsets across open plains cast long shadows that highlight the rugged landscape.

February

Snow continues to blanket higher elevations, creating perfect conditions for winter sports. Wildlife such as elk and bighorn sheep are more visible along forest edges. Afternoon light across the prairie can create striking photography opportunities with soft golden hues.

March

Temperatures begin to rise slightly, with lows often still below freezing in the mountains. Early signs of spring appear along river valleys and southern plains. Trails become more accessible for hiking, and migratory birds start returning to open grasslands.

April

Snow melts at lower elevations, revealing rolling meadows and budding forests. Daytime highs usually reach around 10–15°C on the prairies, making walks and scenic drives enjoyable. Rivers swell with runoff, creating dramatic rapids ideal for photography.

May

The landscape transitions to lush greenery, with wildflowers blooming across foothills and prairie grasslands. May is a great time for spotting wildlife, including deer and bison, in more open areas. Temperatures generally sit between 15–20°C, comfortable for outdoor exploration.

June

Summer warmth spreads through the region, with mountain trails inviting for hiking and climbing. Lowlands can reach around 22–25°C, ideal for exploring small towns, lakes, and open grasslands. Evenings are often calm, perfect for stargazing under wide-open skies.

July

Peak summer brings reliably warm conditions across the Rockies and prairies. Highs frequently climb towards 25–28°C, and wildflower meadows are in full bloom. Coastal or mountain rivers are excellent for canoeing or fly-fishing.

August

Temperatures remain warm, though mountain afternoons can be cooler in shaded valleys. August provides excellent opportunities for photography, capturing sunlit peaks against deep blue skies. Wildlife such as moose and bears are often spotted near lakes and streams.

September

The arrival of autumn is noticeable in the Rockies, with foliage beginning to turn brilliant shades of red and gold. Daytime temperatures generally reach around 18–22°C, offering comfortable conditions for hiking or scenic drives. The prairies remain expansive and quiet, ideal for birdwatching.

October

Cooler air sweeps through, and the first frosts appear on the plains. Trails become quieter, offering a more solitary experience for walkers and photographers. October light enhances the textures of rugged cliffs and golden fields.

November

Snow gradually returns to higher elevations, dusting peaks and alpine meadows. Lowlands experience crisp mornings and mild afternoons, with temperatures often around 5–10°C. Wildlife activity becomes more noticeable as animals prepare for winter.

December

Winter settles fully across the Rockies and prairies, with snow blanketing mountains and valleys. Calm afternoons provide perfect conditions for cross-country skiing or exploring quiet prairie trails. Early mornings reveal frost patterns on grasses and ice-glimmering streams.

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