Zion · December
Zion in December
December is a good time to visit Zion — quieter than November, about as busy as January.
Expect moderate crowds (5/10), highs near 52°F, about 9.6 hours of daylight, and 1 seasonal closure in effect.
Crowd score
How busy it gets
A comfortable middle ground: some company on popular trails, but no gridlock.
About 46% 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 Zion’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
- 52°F
- Avg low
- 29°F
- Precipitation
- 1.4"
- Sunrise
- 6:39 AM
- Sunset
- 4:15 PM
- Daylight
- 9.6h
Source: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals, Zion NP
What's open
Zion in December: access
Open 24 hours daily; shuttle required in the canyon most of the year
Seasonal closures may apply:
- Park Closure
Watchman Trail closed
The Watchman Trail is closed pending repairs.
Source: NPS Data API
Conditions
Current alerts
- Information
Please park legally and responsibly
Zion has limited parking. Once parking spaces in Zion are full, visitors should park in Springdale. Please park only in designated spaces. Vehicles parked outside of designated spaces are subject to citation and towing.
Details on nps.gov → - Information
Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program
All hikers need a permit to hike Angels Landing. Learn why you need a permit and how to get one using the link below.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Toxic cyanobacteria in rivers, streams, and pools
Do not submerge your head in or drink instream water in Zion National Park.
Details on nps.gov → - Caution
Large vehicle restrictions on Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway
Vehicles that exceed length, width, height, or weight limits cannot travel between Canyon Junction and the park's East Entrance. See the current limits on the page linked below.
Details on nps.gov →
Source: NPS Data API
Context
Zion crowds across the year
Alternatives
Quieter nearby in December
FAQ
Zion in December
How busy is Zion in December?
December rates 5/10 for crowds (Moderate) at Zion National Park — about 46% of its busiest month. Typical recreation visits: 242,997.
What is the weather like at Zion in December?
In December, Zion averages a high of 52°F and a low of 29°F, with about 1.4 inches of precipitation.
How much does it cost to visit Zion?
Entrance to Zion costs $35 ($35 per private vehicle, valid 7 days).
Do I need a reservation to visit Zion in December?
A reservation may be required: Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program. All hikers need a permit to hike Angels Landing. Learn why you need a permit and how to get one using the link below. Confirm current requirements on nps.gov before you visit.
When is Zion least crowded?
Zion 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 Zion get in December?
In mid-December, Zion gets about 9.6 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 6:39 AM and sunset around 4:15 PM.