Easter in Wyoming usually brings a wild mix of winter’s last gasp and the first hints of spring warmth. You’ll see daytime highs in many spots bouncing from the upper 40s to low 60s, but nights often drop below freezing.
Snow still pops up in some areas, though lower elevations might get more rain as spring tries to settle in.
Your experience really depends on where you go. Plains around Cheyenne warm up faster, but mountain towns like Jackson stubbornly hang onto winter.
You might find yourself hiking under a sunny sky one day and skiing fresh powder the next, depending on the region.
Easter lands right in the middle of Wyoming’s big seasonal shift. Wildlife starts moving, trails open up, and national parks show those first signs of spring.
Whether you’re after crisp mornings, mild afternoons, or even a shot at late-season snow, Easter gives you a sampler of everything Wyoming has to offer.
Typical Easter Weather in Wyoming
Easter falls smack in the middle of Wyoming’s transition season. Cold winter air starts to fade, and spring slowly pushes in.
You’ll notice huge differences between the high plains and the mountain valleys. Temperatures swing, snow lingers, and longer days all shape the experience.
Average Temperatures in March and April
In the weeks before Easter, Wyoming stays pretty cool. Cheyenne, out on the high plains, sees average highs climb from 49°F in March to 56°F in April. Lows move up from 27°F to 33°F.
Jackson, tucked near the Rockies and west of the Continental Divide, stays colder. March highs average just 38°F, and April warms to about 49°F. Nights there hang out below freezing, with lows from 17°F in March to 25°F in April.
Elevation and terrain really shape these differences. Higher up, snow sticks around and nights stay cold. Down on the plains, things warm up faster.
Even if afternoons feel mild, you’ll want to bundle up for those chilly mornings.
Precipitation and Snowfall Patterns
Spring in Wyoming gets pretty unpredictable, with both rain and snow showing up around Easter. On the high plains, Cheyenne picks up about 0.3 inches of rain in March and 0.8 inches in April. Snow totals run 3–4 inches each month.
Jackson sees heavier snowfall thanks to its mountain setting. March brings nearly 6 inches of snow, and April still drops close to 3 inches. Rain starts to pick up in April, about 1 inch for the month.
Storms can blow up fast, especially when moist western air collides with lingering cold east of the Divide.
Rain showers, wet snow, and even the occasional thunderstorm can all show up. You’ll want to plan for anything and pack for both winter and spring in one trip.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine Levels
By Easter, Wyoming’s days have stretched out a lot since winter. In Cheyenne, you get about 12 hours of daylight in March and 13.4 hours in April.
Jackson’s pretty similar, with daylight growing from 12 to 13.5 hours over those months.
Skies clear up more as spring rolls in. Cheyenne gets clear skies about 50–55% of the time in March, and that jumps to over 60% in April.
Mountain valleys like Jackson brighten too, with clearer days going from 43% in March to almost 46% in April.
Longer days and more sunshine help melt the snow and wake up the landscape. But, strong winds on the plains and cold mountain air can still make it feel brisk.
Layering is key if you want to stay comfortable.
Regional Weather Variations Across Wyoming
Wyoming’s Easter weather swings a lot depending on where you are. The high plains, mountain valleys, and areas along the Continental Divide all bring their own mix of temperatures, snow, and wind.
Elevation really drives these changes. Cheyenne and Jackson Hole show off those contrasts pretty clearly.
Differences Between High Plains and Mountains
The high plains in southeastern Wyoming, including Cheyenne, warm up to milder spring weather faster than the mountains. April afternoons usually hit the 50s °F, but nights still get cold, often near freezing.
Winds blow stronger here, with speeds often above 10 mph, so it can feel colder than it looks.
Over in the Rocky Mountains and valleys west of the Divide, spring comes late. Snowpack lingers, and daytime highs in places like Jackson Hole usually stay in the 40s °F. Nights frequently fall into the 20s °F.
Snow showers stick around through Easter, especially above 6,000 feet.
You can drive just a few hours and go from springlike weather on the plains to full-on winter in the mountains.
Weather in Major Cities: Cheyenne, Jackson Hole, and More
Cheyenne (High Plains, ~6,000 ft):
- Average high: ~56°F in April
- Average low: ~33°F
- Snowfall: 3–4 inches still possible
- Winds: Often above 12 mph
Jackson Hole (Mountain Valley, ~6,200 ft):
- Average high: ~49°F in April
- Average low: ~25°F
- Snowfall: 2–3 inches common during the month
- Skies: Clearer days increase later in April
Other towns like Casper and Laramie land somewhere between these two. Casper, at about 5,200 feet, warms up a bit faster. Laramie, above 7,000 feet, stays colder and snowier longer.
These city differences really show how much elevation and location matter for Easter weather.
Impact of Elevation on Easter Weather
Elevation makes the biggest difference in Wyoming’s spring climate. For every 1,000 feet you climb, temperatures can drop about 3°F.
A drive over the Divide or up into the mountains can quickly take you from mild to wintry.
Lower valleys east of the Divide warm up first, with more rain than snow by April. But higher basins and passes, especially above 7,500 feet, still get frequent snowstorms and icy nights.
If you’re planning a trip or outdoor activity, expect big swings. A picnic in Cheyenne could feel like spring, but a hike near Jackson Hole or the Tetons might still need full winter gear.
Easter Weather in Wyoming’s National Parks
Early spring in Wyoming means cool days, cold nights, and a grab bag of snow or rain depending on elevation.
Conditions jump around between high mountain parks and the lower plains, so you’ll want to prepare for wild temperature swings and leftover snow.
Yellowstone National Park Conditions
Around Easter, Yellowstone National Park mostly hangs onto winter-like conditions. Average highs reach the low 40s °F (5–7 °C), and nighttime lows often fall into the teens °F (-7 to -10 °C).
Snowpack stays deep, especially above 7,000 feet.
Most interior roads remain closed to cars, though some entrances open later in April. You might still catch a snow coach or snowmobile tour, but hiking is mostly limited to lower spots near Mammoth Hot Springs.
Precipitation averages about 1–2 inches now, usually as snow. Bring insulated boots, waterproof layers, and expect temperatures to drop fast once the sun goes down.
Key points for Yellowstone at Easter:
- Day highs: ~40 °F
- Night lows: teens °F
- Road access limited
- Snow and ice common
Grand Teton National Park Weather
Grand Teton National Park sits a bit lower than Yellowstone but still gets cold, unsettled spring weather. Daytime highs land in the upper 40s to low 50s °F (8–12 °C), with lows in the 20s °F (-6 to -2 °C).
Snow lingers on shaded trails, but valley floors might start to thaw.
The Tetons keep heavy snowpack well into May. Ski touring and snowshoeing stay popular, but hiking is still pretty limited.
Moose and elk show up more as they move into the valleys, so wildlife viewing can be pretty good.
Rain showers pick up later in April, but snow can still surprise you. You’ll want to carry layers, including a warm hat and gloves, even if the sun’s out.
Visiting Devils Tower at Easter
Devils Tower National Monument, up in northeast Wyoming, sits at a lower elevation than the mountain parks. Easter brings daytime highs into the mid-50s °F (12–14 °C), while nights drop into the upper 20s °F (-2 to -4 °C).
Snow isn’t as common here, but light rain showers can happen.
Trails around the tower usually open earlier than those in Yellowstone or Grand Teton. You might run into some mud from melting snow, but most paths are fine with sturdy shoes.
Cooler spring temps make hiking comfortable. Roads and trails are more accessible here, making Devils Tower a solid choice if you want easier outdoor options at Easter.
Springtime Activities and Events
Easter in Wyoming lands right as snow starts to give way to warmer days. You get a mix of mountain winter sports and the first glimpses of summer fun in the valleys and plains.
Local events pop up too, showing off Wyoming traditions.
Popular Outdoor Activities Around Easter
Early spring keeps snow on the higher ground, so you can still go skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling in places like Jackson Hole or the Snowy Range.
Resorts sometimes stay open into April, depending on how much snow they’ve got. That gives you a shot at late-season runs.
Down at lower elevations, trails start to thaw. Hiking and wildlife viewing become possible, especially as Yellowstone and Grand Teton wake up. You might spot migrating birds or newborn animals in April.
Fishing gets busy as snowmelt fills the rivers. Trout streams near Casper and the North Platte River attract more anglers as things warm up.
You’ll want to pack for both cold mornings and mild afternoons, since weather can swing a lot.
Cheyenne Frontier Days and Other Local Events
The Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo happens in midsummer, but Easter kicks off Wyoming’s event season. Communities use spring holidays for smaller gatherings—Easter egg hunts, craft fairs, and cultural programs.
In Cheyenne, Laramie, and Cody, heritage centers and museums often host spring exhibits tied to local history. These make good indoor options if the weather gets nasty.
Smaller rodeos and equestrian events start popping up in April and May. They lead up to the bigger summer festivals and give you a taste of Wyoming’s western heritage without the crowds.
Transition from Winter to Summer Recreation
Spring in Wyoming goes by fast, and you’ll see a quick jump from winter to summer activities. One week you might snowshoe in the mountains, then find yourself biking or horseback riding on thawed trails in the plains the next.
By late April, many lower-elevation campgrounds reopen. That lets you swap out heavy winter gear for lighter setups for camping and hiking.
Water activities pick up too, as rivers swell with snowmelt. Kayaking and rafting become possible, but the water stays cold and swift.
Planning ahead helps you balance winter and summer gear during this in-between season.
Travel Tips for Easter in Wyoming
Spring in Wyoming usually means mild afternoons, cold mornings, and the chance of late-season snow. Conditions can change fast, especially in higher spots like Jackson Hole, so planning ahead helps you stay comfortable and safe.
What to Pack for Variable Spring Weather
Easter lands right in Wyoming’s awkward transition from winter to spring. You’ll need to get ready for both chilly and unexpectedly warm days.
In Cheyenne, the highs usually hit the low teens °C, but nights? They can still drop below freezing. Jackson Hole stays cooler, and you might even see snow.
Pack clothes you can layer. Bring a waterproof jacket, an insulated fleece, and some thermal base layers.
Don’t forget sturdy, waterproof boots—they’re lifesavers on muddy trails or stubborn patches of snow. Toss in gloves and a hat for those cold early mornings.
Grab sunglasses and sunscreen too. The sun feels stronger at higher elevations, even if it’s cold out.
If you’re thinking about hiking or skiing, bring gear for both snow and mud. April trails can surprise you.
Driving and Road Conditions
Wyoming roads can throw you a curveball around Easter. Snow showers sometimes pop up, and icy spots often stick around on shady stretches.
Jackson Hole’s mountain passes stay slick well into spring. Cheyenne’s plains? You might battle some strong crosswinds.
Always check Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) updates before you set out. Pack a winter emergency kit—blankets, water, flashlight, the basics.
If you’re driving in the mountains, all-wheel drive or snow-rated tires make a big difference.
Travel into Yellowstone or Grand Teton will probably take longer, since some park roads stay closed until late spring.
In town, you could run into wet, muddy streets thanks to melting snow.
Best Places to Stay During Easter
Where should you stay? It really depends on your plans.
Cheyenne has more budget-friendly hotels and easy highway access. That’s handy if you want a base for short day trips.
Jackson Hole feels totally different. Many lodges and cabins cater to skiers wrapping up their season or folks hoping to spot wildlife.
If you stay here, you’re close to Grand Teton National Park. Just expect higher prices than Cheyenne.
Prefer things quieter? Smaller towns like Laramie or Cody offer cozy inns and fewer crowds.
You’ll get a slower pace but still be close to Wyoming’s main sights.
How Easter Weather Compares to Other Seasons
Easter in Wyoming is a mixed bag—late winter chill, early spring warmth, you name it.
You might wake up to frost and end the day in a light jacket.
Contrast with Winter and Summer in Wyoming
Winter in Wyoming drags on—cold, snowy, and honestly, a little relentless. January highs often stay in the 20s °F, and lows sink below zero in a lot of valleys.
Snow can linger into March, especially up in the mountains, so outdoor plans really depend on the weather.
By Easter, daytime highs usually climb into the 40s or 50s °F at lower elevations. Nights still dip below freezing, so frost or even a dusting of snow can happen.
You might need a heavy coat in the morning and just a sweater by afternoon.
Summer, though, is a whole different story. In July, highs in most of Wyoming shoot up to the 80s or 90s °F, with dry air and a blazing sun.
Thunderstorms tend to hit the plains and foothills pretty often. Compared to summer, Easter feels cooler, less predictable, and usually wetter. Snowfall gets rare by late April, unless you’re up high.
| Season | Typical Highs (°F) | Typical Lows (°F) | Common Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | 20s–30s | Below 0–10s | Snow, wind, icy roads |
| Easter | 40s–50s | 20s–30s | Variable, frost, rain/snow mix |
| Summer | 80s–90s | 50s–60s | Dry heat, thunderstorms |
Autumn Versus Spring Conditions
Autumn in Wyoming cools down more gradually than spring warms up. September tends to stay mild, with highs in the 70s °F.
October usually brings frost and the occasional snow. By November, you’ll notice early winter settling in, with shorter days and storms popping up more often.
Spring feels a lot less steady. Around Easter, you might get a warm spell, then suddenly face a sharp cold front.
Snow can still show up in April, especially up in the mountains, even as wildflowers start showing off in the valleys.
The real difference comes down to predictability. Autumn slides from summer warmth to winter chill in a pretty smooth way.
Spring, especially around Easter, just can’t seem to make up its mind. One day you’re enjoying a sunny afternoon, and the next morning, you’re staring at fresh snow.
If you’re thinking about traveling or heading outdoors, autumn usually offers more settled weather. Spring, though, asks for a bit more flexibility.
Planning hikes, drives, or events around Easter? You’ll want to be ready for anything—sometimes it feels like you get winter and summer packed into the same week.