Canyonlands · December · Utah
Canyonlands National Park in December
December is a fair month for Canyonlands National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 37°F and lows 19°F, with about 0.7 inches of rain.
December is rated fair at Canyonlands. Consider Apr–May, Oct instead.
What to expect
Honest take: December is not the month for Canyonlands. Cold, quiet and stark. Snow occasionally dusts Island in the Sky, and some 4x4 roads become impassable.
Island in the Sky pairs easily with Arches (40 minutes away). The Needles is a separate 90-minute drive, so budget a separate day.
Good to know
- Best months overall: Apr–May, Oct.
- Closest airport: Grand Junction (GJT), about 2 hours.
- Before you go: Backcountry and White Rim trips require permits that often sell out for spring and fall. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Questions
Is December a good time to visit Canyonlands National Park?
December is a fair month for Canyonlands National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 37°F and lows 19°F, with about 0.7 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Canyonlands National Park in December?
Highs average 37°F and lows 19°F, with about 0.7 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.
How crowded is Canyonlands National Park in December?
December is one of the quietest months at Canyonlands National Park.