Hiking is a great activity in December because the crowds have thinned so immensely, and you could even have the trail to yourself
. Early mornings will be chilly in Zion, make sure you start off with many layers, including hats and gloves.
Can you drive through Zion National Park in December?
Zion is a magical park year round, and in the winter you’ll have an opportunity to experience the beauty with more calm and quiet. Another bonus of coming in this offseason is
you can drive through the park
.
What should I pack for Zion in December?
Zion in December – or any winter month is almost always going to be cold and wet. It is wise to include
an inexpensive rain poncho, and an emergency reflective foil blanket
, as these items are small, light, and always easy to include in a small backpack or waist pack.
How cold is Zion National Park in December?
Zion Weather in December
In early December, the
daily high temperatures in Zion National Park are around 54°F (12°C) and hover around 48°F (9°C )
at the end of the month. There are, on average, six days with precipitation which can be a mix of snow or rain.
Is December a good time to visit Utah?
June to August is the season of spectacular activities like Bonneville Speed Week or stargazing, but these months are the hottest and most touristic.
December to February can be snowy and freezing up north, and you have a chance to explore ice castles, warm up in the Mystic Hot Springs or ski in dramatic mountains.
Can you do the Narrows in December?
The bottom up Narrows hike is certainly possible in December
, though it is possible that built up overhead ice can make the conditions unsafe. You will also have to decide if you are comfortable with the weather conditions at the time.
Does Zion get snow in December?
Weather in December
The average temperature for Zion Canyon is a high of 53, and a low of 30 degrees Fahrenheit (12/-1 degrees Celsius). In Kolob Canyons, the average temperature is a high of 50, and a low of 26 degrees Fahrenheit (10/-3 degrees Celsius).
On average, it rains or snows 6 days in December
.
What do people wear in Zion in winter?
- Wicking Clothing and Warm Layers. …
- Hiking Boots. …
- Neoprene Socks, Water Shoes, or a Back-Up Pair of Boots. …
- Plenty of Water. …
- Sunscreen.
Do I need hiking shoes for Zion?
When preparing to hike the non-strenuous trails in Zion National Park,
it’s recommended to bring adequate footwear
. Something like trail runners is best but quality sneakers should be sufficient. Open-toed shoes of any kind should be left at home. However, hiking sandals are fine for the leisurely hikes in the park.
Is Zion open on Christmas?
The visitor center is usually completely closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
. The nearby Zion Human History Museum is open in the spring, summer, and fall with shorter hours than the visitor center. It’s completely closed during the winter months.
Do I need snow chains for Zion?
You won’t need chains for your vehicle to the road in the park
. It’s still early in the winter.
Does Zion National Park closed in the winter?
Zion National Park is Open
The park is open every day of the year.
What months can you drive through Zion National Park?
Can I drive my private vehicle into Zion Canyon? A. From
March through late November
, access to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is by shuttle bus only. Private vehicles are allowed to access the Scenic Drive only when the Shuttle System is not in operation.
What should I wear in Utah in December?
Utah winters are cold, so pack
warm clothes
. Salt Lake City winter temps are often in the 20s, and other parts of the state can dip below zero. To stay safe, pack a heavy coat, a hat, gloves, thick socks and sweaters.
Does it snow in December in Utah?
The average sliding 31-day snowfall during December in Salt Lake City is increasing, starting the month at 2.2 inches, when it rarely exceeds 5.9 inches or falls below -0.0 inches, and ending the month at 3.7 inches, when it rarely exceeds 9.2 inches or falls below 0.2 inches.
How cold is it in Utah in December?
| 39 °F December average high 4 °C | 25 °F December average low -4 °C |
|---|
What to wear hiking The Narrows in December?
- Make sure to pay attention to the current weather conditions. …
- Start your hike as early in the morning as possible. …
- Bring plenty of water and snacks. …
- If you are hiking in the winter, renting a dry suit is a good idea. …
- Wear layers both under/and over the dry suit.
How cold is too cold for hiking?
Most people will not be comfortable in weather colder than
40°F (4.44°C)
without cold-weather gear. With the proper gear and training, however, you can hike even in sub-zero temperatures safely and comfortably.
What months can you hike The Narrows?
The Narrows is a popular hike through the knee-deep Virgin River. Due to cold water temperature and high water levels, the trail is closed in winter and spring. The best time to hike The Narrows is from
late May to October
, but watch out for summer thunderstorms that can cause deathly flash floods.
What should I pack for Zion National Park?
- Track pants, capris, zip-off pants, yoga pants, or hiking pants, shorts, flexible, comfortable, stretchy pants.
- Long underwear. (Under Armor®, Capilene® etc.)
- Light rain/wind jacket.
- Fleece jacket for the cool mornings and chilly belay stances.
- Warm/knit hat/beanie.
- Warm gloves.
- Puffy Jacket.
