Capitol Reef · December
Capitol Reef in December
December is one of the best times to visit Capitol Reef — quieter than November, busier than January.
Expect light crowds (2/10), highs near 40°F, and about 9.5 hours of daylight.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
Well below this park's peak — easy parking, open trails, short lines.
About 18% 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 Capitol Reef’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
- 40°F
- Avg low
- 21°F
- Precipitation
- 0.4"
- Sunrise
- 7:34 AM
- Sunset
- 5:05 PM
- Daylight
- 9.5h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, CAPITOL REEF NP, UT US
What's open
Capitol Reef in December: access
Capitol Reef is a 24 hour park, open all day, every day. The visitor center is open daily, except for some major holidays. Visitor center hours vary, call 435-425-3791 and follow the prompts for current visitor center information.
No seasonal road or area closures reported for this park.
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Caution
Monsoon Season & Flash Floods
Heavy rains can cause sudden flooding, especially in canyons and washes. Do not drive or hike through flood waters. Get to high ground and wait for floods to subside. Some roads may close temporarily; closures are posted at the visitor center.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Elevated E. Coli levels - Fremont River and Sulphur Creek
Recent water quality testing shows elevated E. coli levels in the Fremont River and Sulphur Creek. A warning advisory has been issued by the Utah DEQ. Use caution if entering the water. Do not get water in your mouth, do not swim. Wash hands with soap and water.
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Capitol Reef crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in December
FAQ
Capitol Reef in December
How busy is Capitol Reef in December?
December rates 2/10 for crowds (Quiet) at Capitol Reef National Park — about 18% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 37,267.
What is the weather like at Capitol Reef in December?
In December, Capitol Reef averages a high of 40°F and a low of 21°F, with about 0.4 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit Capitol Reef?
Entrance to Capitol Reef costs $20 (An entrance fee is charged per vehicle.).
When is Capitol Reef least crowded?
Capitol Reef 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 Capitol Reef get in December?
In mid-December, Capitol Reef gets about 9.5 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:34 AM and sunset around 5:05 PM.