Capitol Reef · December · Utah

Capitol Reef National Park in December

December is a fair month for Capitol Reef National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 39°F and lows 19°F, with about 0.76 inches of rain.

December is rated fair at Capitol Reef. Consider Apr–May, Sep–Oct instead.

Full park guideAll parks in December
RatingFair
CrowdsQuiet
Avg high / low39°F / 19°F
Rain0.76 in

What to expect

Honest take: December is not the month for Capitol Reef. Quiet and cold. A light dusting of snow on the domes is a bonus, and you'll have trails to yourself.

Local tip

Capitol Reef is the perfect stop between Arches and Bryce on a Utah road trip, and it's much less crowded than either.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: Apr–May, Sep–Oct.
  • Closest airport: Salt Lake City (SLC), about 3.5 hours.
  • Before you go: Orchard picking seasons vary year to year; check the park's fruit hotline. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Capitol Reef itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is December a good time to visit Capitol Reef National Park?

December is a fair month for Capitol Reef National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 39°F and lows 19°F, with about 0.76 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Capitol Reef National Park in December?

Highs average 39°F and lows 19°F, with about 0.76 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.

How crowded is Capitol Reef National Park in December?

December is one of the quietest months at Capitol Reef National Park.