Best Time to See Raccoons in Montana

August, July and September is the best time to see raccoons in Montana. Based on 235 verified iNaturalist observations, here is exactly when raccoons are most active across the year in Montana.

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By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.

Common Raccoon photographed in MontanaCommon Raccoon photographed in MontanaCommon Raccoon photographed in Montana
Photos by iNaturalist observers, used under Creative Commons.
Best months: August, July, SeptemberPeak season right now

235 verified observations of raccoons in Montana, recorded across 12 months of the year on iNaturalist.

When raccoons are recorded in Montana

Peak month

August

34 records (14.5% of the year)

Quietest month

November

7 records

MonthObservationsShare
January177.2%
February104.3%
March156.4%
April125.1%
May2410.2%
June2711.5%
Julypeak3012.8%
Augustpeak3414.5%
Septemberpeak2811.9%
October198.1%
November73%
December125.1%

Raccoons you are most likely to see

SpeciesVerified observations
Common Raccoon235

Sightings of raccoons in Montana peak in August, when 34 of the year's 235 verified observations are logged β€” about 14.5% of the annual total. Activity stays high through August, July and September.

The quietest stretch is November and February, when raccoons are hardest to find β€” November sees just 7 records. If a reliable sighting matters, plan around the peak window rather than the off-season.

The raccoons you are most likely to encounter in Montana are Common Raccoon β€” the most-recorded species in the state. Each keeps its own seasonal rhythm, but the month-by-month pattern above reflects every reported sighting together.

Where to go

Best places to see raccoons in Montana

  • Big Hole National Battlefield β€” National Battlefield
  • Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area β€” National Recreation Area
  • Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site β€” National Historic Site
  • Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail β€” National Historic Trail
  • Nez Perce National Historical Park β€” National Historical Park
  • Yellowstone National Park β€” National Park
Plan your tripBig Hole National Battlefield

Plan your raccoon trip in Montana

Start with live tours near Big Hole National Battlefield, then compare a nearby stay and a broader wildlife backup before you lock in the trip.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to see raccoons in Montana?+

August is the single best month, and the broader peak window runs through August, July and September, based on 235 verified iNaturalist observations.

When are raccoons hardest to see in Montana?+

November is the quietest month for raccoons in Montana, with only 7 verified records.

Are raccoons active year-round in Montana?+

Raccoons are recorded in 12 of 12 months in Montana, so they can be seen year-round, with a clear peak in August.