From Midwest to West in early October

[slwohlford]

We are planning to go out West from Indiana during the second week of October. Should we worry about the weather if we travel north to central Wisconsin and then head west staying in the southern section of all of the border states?

How's the weather in the Black Hills and Yellowstone in mid to late October? We can head south at a moment's notice since we want to end up in Apache Junction, AZ in early November.

Responses from those that have experienced that area in October would be appreciated.


Thanx to those serving our country in the military.

[John Hilley]

October can be perfect weather in the northern states, but after the middle of October can change dramatically over night. For the last several years we have had very nice Indian Summer weather in October with the first frost getting later every year. You also have to consider altitude. I wouldn't worry about snow, if it does snow it should be gone in a day or two. You should be safely in Apache Junction by the time bad weather sets in.

[oregonlogger]

You should be fine. Just be ready like you said to head south or deal woth freezing temps. We have done it pre-rv (tenting) got cold a few times but with the trailer it was fine. enjoy that is a great time to go.

Forgot to mention we were in both the Black Hills and Yellowstone. Latest in Yellowstone Oct.18th

[oregonlogger]

You are right to be concerned about the elevation in Yellowstone. It can and does freeze at night even in August. But, unless snow flies early, it is a fabulous time to visit. I would check with the park and see campground closing dates. Many were closed by mid October and as i recall the year we were there the campground we were in closed like 2 days after we left. It was Madison i believe.

[JimM68]

I did that route to vzancouver from chicago last year end of october. saw a little snow in the pass in western montana, the rest was fine.

[bigskymt]

I've seen the chain law in effect on Targhee Pass (7000+') as early as late September.
Many Yellowstone Campgrounds close in September, that does not restrict camping.
As long as the roads are clear and and no barricades in place we've traveled as desired.
With few visitors and fewer mosquitos it's a great time to enjoy.
Average October temps range from daytime highs in the 50s, lows in the 20s

[Mikey-KE7LBB]

First post...

I've been stuck for 22.5 hrs + while going across WY in Sept. 2000

Freak storm, but crippled the entire state!!!

I was stuck with 5 guys in a '94 crew cab Ford after just grabbing the bag of cloths that I had still not unpacked/washed from my last 2 week job in Hawaii.

It was miserable and cold to say the least, but I thanked God on several occasions that I wasn't driving!!

This was around 10+ years before ever purchasing an RV, but I can see where it would be a problem for one who had tried to venture at this time of year!!!

Check the road conditions often and use caution while traveling through this state in early winter and don't put it off until it gets too nasty out to travel

[ralper]

The higher the elevation the lower the temperature. Black Hills in Oct might be cold and snowy or nice it is a toss up.

[Stumblefoot]

Wohlford,

As you can see, you should be fine that time of year. It seems the biggest change typically happens around Halloween. It can be beautiful and it can be nasty at that time. The only saving grace is that if weather moves in, it doesn't last long and it'll melt quickly the next day.

Have a great trip. Sounds fun.