Gates of the Arctic · December · Alaska
Gates of the Arctic National Park in December
December is the off-season at Gates of the Arctic National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average -8°F and lows -17°F, with about 0.7 inches of rain.
December is rated poor at Gates of the Arctic. Consider Jul–Aug instead.
What to expect
Honest take: December is not the month for Gates of the Arctic. Extreme cold and darkness. Only for experienced expeditions.
Go with an experienced outfitter unless you're a seasoned wilderness traveler. Rescue is far away and slow.
Good to know
- Best months overall: Jul–Aug.
- Closest airport: Fairbanks (FAI), then a bush flight.
- Before you go: Access only by air taxi from Fairbanks, Bettles or Coldfoot, or on foot from the Dalton Highway. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Questions
Is December a good time to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park?
December is the off-season at Gates of the Arctic National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average -8°F and lows -17°F, with about 0.7 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Gates of the Arctic National Park in December?
Highs average -8°F and lows -17°F, with about 0.7 inches of rain. Conditions are poor this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.
How crowded is Gates of the Arctic National Park in December?
December is one of the quietest months at Gates of the Arctic National Park.