Bozeman Weather by Month: A Complete Guide for Travelers
Located in the scenic Gallatin Valley near the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman, Montana experiences a true four-season climate. Winters are snowy and cold, while summers are warm, sunny, and relatively dry. Because of its elevation (about 4,820 ft / 1,469 m), temperatures can shift quickly, and nights are often cooler than in lower-elevation cities.
Below is a month-by-month guide to Bozeman’s weather, including temperature trends, snowfall, and what you can expect throughout the year.
Bozeman Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High (°F / °C) | Avg Low (°F / °C) | Rainfall (inches) | Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 29°F / -2°C | 11°F / -12°C | 0.8 | 12.6 |
| February | 34°F / 1°C | 15°F / -9°C | 0.7 | 10.6 |
| March | 43°F / 6°C | 22°F / -6°C | 1.0 | 10.0 |
| April | 54°F / 12°C | 30°F / -1°C | 1.3 | 4.0 |
| May | 64°F / 18°C | 37°F / 3°C | 2.1 | 1.0 |
| June | 73°F / 23°C | 44°F / 7°C | 2.4 | 0 |
| July | 84°F / 29°C | 49°F / 9°C | 1.1 | 0 |
| August | 82°F / 28°C | 48°F / 9°C | 1.1 | 0 |
| September | 71°F / 22°C | 40°F / 4°C | 1.2 | 0.3 |
| October | 57°F / 14°C | 31°F / -1°C | 1.0 | 3.0 |
| November | 41°F / 5°C | 21°F / -6°C | 0.9 | 10.0 |
| December | 30°F / -1°C | 12°F / -11°C | 0.8 | 13.7 |
Winter in Bozeman (December – February)
December
- Average High: ~30°F (-1°C)
- Average Low: ~12°F (-11°C)
- Conditions: Snowy and cold
December marks the beginning of deep winter. Snowfall increases and holiday lights brighten the snowy downtown streets. Ski season is in full swing at nearby resorts.
January
- Average High: ~29°F (-2°C)
- Average Low: ~11°F (-12°C)
- Conditions: Coldest month of the year
January is typically the coldest month in Bozeman. Snow cover is consistent, and temperatures often drop below freezing for long stretches.
February
- Average High: ~34°F (1°C)
- Average Low: ~15°F (-9°C)
- Conditions: Cold but slightly milder
Snow continues, but slightly longer days bring a bit more sunshine.
Spring in Bozeman (March – May)
March
- Average High: ~43°F (6°C)
- Average Low: ~22°F (-6°C)
- Conditions: Late snowstorms possible
Spring arrives slowly. Snow is still common, and winter storms can still occur.
April
- Average High: ~54°F (12°C)
- Average Low: ~30°F (-1°C)
- Conditions: Variable weather
April can bring sunshine, rain, or snow—sometimes all in the same week.
May
- Average High: ~64°F (18°C)
- Average Low: ~37°F (3°C)
- Conditions: Green landscapes and blooming flowers
Snow is rare in the city by late May, and hiking trails begin opening.
Summer in Bozeman (June – August)
June
- Average High: ~73°F (23°C)
- Average Low: ~44°F (7°C)
- Conditions: Pleasant and green
June is one of the most beautiful months in Bozeman with lush landscapes and long daylight hours.
July
- Average High: ~84°F (29°C)
- Average Low: ~49°F (9°C)
- Conditions: Warm and sunny
July is the warmest month. Despite warm days, evenings remain cool due to the mountain climate.
August
- Average High: ~82°F (28°C)
- Average Low: ~48°F (9°C)
- Conditions: Dry and comfortable
Late summer is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
Fall in Bozeman (September – November)
September
- Average High: ~71°F (22°C)
- Average Low: ~40°F (4°C)
- Conditions: Crisp and sunny
September offers ideal weather with warm days and cool nights.
October
- Average High: ~57°F (14°C)
- Average Low: ~31°F (-1°C)
- Conditions: Fall colors and early snow
The first light snowfalls often appear in the mountains during October.
November
- Average High: ~41°F (5°C)
- Average Low: ~21°F (-6°C)
- Conditions: Start of winter
Snow becomes more frequent as winter approaches.
Annual Weather Overview
Average yearly climate in Bozeman:
- Average annual snowfall: ~90 inches (229 cm)
- Warmest month: July
- Coldest month: January
- Best months for outdoor travel: June – September
Thanks to its mountain location, Bozeman offers cooler summers than many U.S. cities and snowy winters ideal for skiing and snow sports.
20 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the weather in Bozeman
1. What is the climate like in Bozeman, Montana?
Bozeman has a continental mountain climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers.
2. What is the coldest month in Bozeman?
January is typically the coldest month, with average highs around 29°F (-2°C) and lows near 11°F (-12°C).
3. What is the warmest month in Bozeman?
July is the warmest month, with average highs reaching about 84°F (29°C).
4. Does Bozeman get a lot of snow?
Yes. Bozeman receives around 90 inches (229 cm) of snow per year, especially between November and March.
5. When does snow usually start in Bozeman?
Snow can start falling in October, but heavier snowfall usually begins in November.
6. When does winter end in Bozeman?
Winter conditions often last until March, and occasional snowstorms can occur even in April.
7. Does it snow in Bozeman in May?
Snow in May is rare in the city but can still occur occasionally, especially in higher elevations.
8. How hot does it get in Bozeman during summer?
Summer temperatures usually reach 75–85°F (24–29°C) during the day, with cooler nights.
9. Are summers humid in Bozeman?
No. Summers are generally dry and comfortable due to the city’s high elevation.
10. What is the rainiest month in Bozeman?
May and June are typically the wettest months, though rainfall totals remain moderate.
11. Is Bozeman windy?
Bozeman can experience occasional strong winds, particularly in spring and winter.
12. Does Bozeman experience extreme weather?
Extreme weather is uncommon, but winter cold snaps and snowstorms do occur.
13. What is the best time to visit Bozeman for good weather?
The best months are June through September, when temperatures are warm and outdoor activities are ideal.
14. How long is winter in Bozeman?
Winter usually lasts from November through March, with snow often staying on the ground for several months.
15. Is Bozeman sunny?
Yes. Bozeman enjoys over 200 sunny days per year.
16. How cold are nights in Bozeman during summer?
Even in summer, nighttime temperatures can drop to 40–50°F (4–10°C).
17. Does Bozeman have four distinct seasons?
Yes. Bozeman experiences clear seasonal changes, including snowy winters, mild springs, warm summers, and colorful autumns.
18. When do fall colors appear in Bozeman?
Fall foliage typically peaks in late September to early October.
19. Is Bozeman weather unpredictable?
Mountain weather can change quickly, especially in spring and fall.
20. Why is Bozeman cooler than many other U.S. cities in summer?
Bozeman sits at about 4,820 feet (1,469 m) above sea level, which keeps temperatures cooler than lower-elevation cities.
