Grand Canyon · December
Grand Canyon in December
December is a good time to visit Grand Canyon — quieter than November, about as busy as January.
Expect moderate crowds (5/10), highs near 44°F, about 9.7 hours of daylight, and 3 seasonal closures in effect.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
A comfortable middle ground: some company on popular trails, but no gridlock.
About 41% 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 5% of Grand 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
- 44°F
- Avg low
- 21°F
- Precipitation
- 1.5"
- Sunrise
- 7:32 AM
- Sunset
- 5:15 PM
- Daylight
- 9.7h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, Grand Canyon NP (South Rim)
What's open
Grand Canyon in December: access
South Rim open 24/7 year-round; North Rim open mid-May to mid-Oct
Seasonal closures may apply:
- Caution
Critical Backcountry Updates/Closures
Visit this link for the inner canyon weather forecast, current trail closures, today's heat risk, and drinking water availability.
Details on nps.gov → - Danger
INNER CANYON TRAIL CLOSURES
Current trail closures: Bright Angel Trail from One-and-a-Half Mile Resthouse to Havasupai Gardens, the entire North Kaibab Trail (including Cottonwood Campground), Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Silver Bridge, the South Kaibab Trail below Tip-Off, the River Trail east of the River Resthouse to the South Kaibab Trail junction, and the Black Bridge. Please do not attempt to access the closed areas.
- Park Closure
North Rim Scenic Road Closure: Cape Royal and Point Imperial
The Point Imperial Road (from the Cape Royal Road to Point Imperial) will be closed from Oct. 15 through Nov. 3, 2026. No services, fuel, and no water are available on the North Rim as of Oct. 15, 2026.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Danger
INNER CANYON WATER SHUTOFFS
Beginning Sep. 6, no potable water will be available in the inner canyon, including along the Bright Angel Trail (1.5 Mile Resthouse, 3-Mile Resthouse, Havasupai Gardens day use and campground). All backpackers and hikers should carry water filtration and treatment OR carry all water with them.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Overnight Lodging Suspended and Parkwide Stage 4 Water Restrictions
Grand Canyon National Park has implemented Stage 4 water restrictions on the South Rim due to extensive flash flood damage to the Transcanyon Waterline. Overnight accommodations are suspended, and only dry camping is allowed. The park remains open for day use, with food and beverage services, the Grand Canyon Clinic, and Post Office remaining open. Visitors are asked to bring water with them when visiting the park.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Grand Canyon crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in December
FAQ
Grand Canyon in December
How busy is Grand Canyon in December?
December rates 5/10 for crowds (Moderate) at Grand Canyon National Park — about 41% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 225,900.
What is the weather like at Grand Canyon in December?
In December, Grand Canyon averages a high of 44°F and a low of 21°F, with about 1.5 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit Grand Canyon?
Entrance to Grand Canyon costs $35 ($35 per private vehicle, valid 7 days (both rims)).
When is Grand Canyon least crowded?
Grand 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 Grand Canyon get in December?
In mid-December, Grand Canyon gets about 9.7 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:32 AM and sunset around 5:15 PM.