Bryce Canyon · December
Bryce Canyon in December
December is one of the best times to visit Bryce Canyon — quieter than November, about as busy as January.
Expect light crowds (2/10), highs near 37°F, about 9.6 hours of daylight, and 2 seasonal closures in effect.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
Well below this park's peak — easy parking, open trails, short lines.
About 19% of this park's busiest month.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Data: NPS visitation 2023–2025 · crowd scores computed Oct 2026 · alerts checked Oct 18, 2026. How this is calculated →
Computed from federal data · Methodology by Sharon Ben-Moshe
Visitation
Typical December visits vs. the year
December draws about 3% of Bryce Canyon’s yearly visitors.
Typical monthly recreation visits, averaged over the most recent three full years.
Source: NPS Visitor Use Statistics, 2023–2025
Weather
December weather
- Avg high
- 37°F
- Avg low
- 17°F
- Precipitation
- 1.3"
- Sunrise
- 7:36 AM
- Sunset
- 5:11 PM
- Daylight
- 9.6h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, BRYCE CANYON NP HQRS, UT US
What's open
Bryce Canyon in December: access
Bryce Canyon National Park is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.
Seasonal closures may apply:
- Information
Dump Station Closed for Season
The dump station has closed due to early freezing temperatures. Please make other arrangements. Drinking fountains are also in the process of being winterized for the same reason. Please plan appropriately.
- Park Closure
Trail Closures Due to Recent Rains
Wall Street is closed until further notice. Other park trails are open, but hikers are urged to use caution.
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Caution
Current Fire Restrictions
Fires are only allowed in established fire pits.
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Bryce Canyon crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in December
FAQ
Bryce Canyon in December
How busy is Bryce Canyon in December?
December rates 2/10 for crowds (Quiet) at Bryce Canyon National Park — about 19% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 61,900.
What is the weather like at Bryce Canyon in December?
In December, Bryce Canyon averages a high of 37°F and a low of 17°F, with about 1.3 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit Bryce Canyon?
Entrance to Bryce Canyon costs $35 (Admits one private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants.).
When is Bryce Canyon least crowded?
Bryce Canyon is quietest in January and February. If your dates are flexible, those months bring the thinnest crowds of the year.
How many hours of daylight does Bryce Canyon get in December?
In mid-December, Bryce Canyon gets about 9.6 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:36 AM and sunset around 5:11 PM.