Arches National Park in December: What To Expect For an Amazing Trip

December brings cold mornings, short days, and the possibility of snow to Arches National Park. It is also one of the quietest times to explore the park’s sandstone arches, balanced rocks, and desert viewpoints.

Visiting Arches National Park in December requires more flexibility than a warm-weather trip. Ice can form on shaded trails, winter storms may temporarily affect roads, and ranger programs are limited. However, lighter crowds and soft winter light make this a rewarding month for hiking, sightseeing, and photography.

This guide covers December weather, road and trail conditions, camping, wildlife, photography, what to pack, and other practical details you need to plan your visit.

‼️ If you just want a quick snapshot about my thoughts on the best time to visit Arches National Park, check out my Best Time to Go to Arches National Park guide.

Visiting Arches National Park in December

December is firmly part of winter in southeastern Utah. Days are often sunny, but temperatures can remain cold—particularly before sunrise and after sunset.

Snow is possible at Arches National Park in December, although it does not usually remain across the entire desert for long. Shaded trails, north-facing slopes, and protected areas beneath rock formations may stay icy after exposed sections have dried.

The park feels peaceful at this time of year. Parking is normally easier to find, trails are quieter, and popular viewpoints are more enjoyable without the congestion that occurs during busier seasons.

You should still arrive with a flexible plan. A winter storm may affect driving conditions, while ice can make an otherwise straightforward hike considerably more difficult.

Weather in Arches National Park in December

December is one of the coldest months at Arches National Park. Typical temperatures near park headquarters are approximately:

• Average high: 45°F (7°C)
• Average low: 23°F (-5°C)

These figures are only general averages for Arches National Park in December. Sunny afternoons may feel relatively comfortable when there is little wind, but temperatures can fall rapidly after sunset. Wind also makes exposed overlooks and slickrock trails feel colder.

Snowfall is possible throughout December. Some storms leave only a light dusting on the formations, while others create enough snow and ice to affect roads and hiking trails.

Conditions can vary substantially from one part of the park to another. A sunny trail near the visitor center may be dry while shaded areas near Devils Garden remain icy.

Check the National Park Service weather forecast and alerts shortly before your visit.

Does it snow at Arches in December?

Yes, it can snow at Arches National Park in December. Heavy, long-lasting accumulation is not guaranteed, but even a small amount can create slippery roads and trails.

Snow often melts quickly from surfaces exposed to direct sunlight. It can persist much longer in shaded areas, especially when daytime temperatures remain below freezing.

If snow is important to your photography plans, remember that there is no way to guarantee it. You could experience a clear, dry trip, a light dusting, or an active winter storm.

Crowds in December

December is generally one of the least crowded times to visit Arches National Park. Parking is easier to find, overlooks feel calmer, and trails are usually much quieter.

Visitation may increase around Christmas and New Year’s Day, particularly when the forecast calls for clear skies. Even then, the park usually feels more relaxed than it does during its busiest travel periods.

Delicate Arch remains popular around sunset. The Windows, Double Arch, Balanced Rock, and Devils Garden may also attract clusters of visitors during the warmest part of the day.

The lighter crowds are a major advantage of visiting Arches National Park in December, but fewer people do not mean you can ignore preparation. Winter breakdowns and hiking injuries can become more serious when fewer visitors are nearby to assist.

Do you need a timed-entry reservation in December?

Arches has used timed-entry reservations during selected busy periods, but Arches National Park in December has generally fallen outside the reservation season. The entrance fee or a valid park pass is still required.

The reservation system can change from year to year. Check the park’s official timed-entry information before traveling rather than relying on information from a previous season.

Best Things to Do at Arches National Park in December

Drive Arches Scenic Drive

The park’s paved scenic road extends approximately 18 miles from the entrance to Devils Garden. Driving to the end and back covers around 36 miles, not including side roads and stops.

Major sights along the route include:

• Park Avenue
• Courthouse Towers
• Balanced Rock
• The Windows
• Double Arch
• Delicate Arch viewpoints
• Fiery Furnace
• Sand Dune Arch
• Skyline Arch
• Devils Garden

Allow at least half a day if you want to stop at the main viewpoints. A full day is better if you plan to complete several short walks.

The road may temporarily close during or after winter storms. Plow crews need time to clear snow and treat icy areas, so do not assume the road will reopen immediately after snowfall ends.

Walk to Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock is one of the easiest landmarks to visit in Arches National Park in December. A short trail circles the formation and provides views from several angles.

Although the route is brief, packed snow and ice can make it slippery. Walk carefully and use traction devices when necessary.

Late afternoon light is particularly attractive here. The formation also makes a good foreground for winter sunset and night-sky photographs.

Explore the Windows and Double Arch

The Windows area offers several impressive formations within a relatively compact section of the park. You can see North Window, South Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch without committing to a long hike.

These trails are suitable for many first-time visitors, but they are not necessarily easy when covered in ice. Stone steps and sloping rock surfaces can become slick.

Double Arch receives limited direct sunlight during parts of winter. Check the ground carefully before walking beneath the formation.

See Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch is the best-known formation in Arches National Park in December. You can see it from the main hiking trail or from two roadside viewpoints.

The Delicate Arch Trail is approximately 3 miles round trip and gains about 480 feet. It crosses open slickrock and includes a narrow ledge near the end.

Winter conditions make this hike more demanding. Snow can hide the route across the slickrock, while ice may develop on the final exposed section. Carry traction devices and turn around if you are uncomfortable with the footing.

The Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint provides a distant view after a short walk. The Upper Viewpoint requires more effort but does not take you directly to the arch.

Hike to Landscape Arch

The relatively gentle trail to Landscape Arch begins at the Devils Garden trailhead. It is approximately 1.9 miles round trip and passes through a landscape of sandstone fins.

This is one of the better choices for a moderate winter walk when the road and trail are clear. Shaded sections may still hold packed snow.

The routes beyond Landscape Arch are considerably more difficult. Steep slickrock, narrow fins, route-finding challenges, and ice can make the Primitive Trail and longer Devils Garden loop hazardous in winter.

Visit Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch

Sand Dune Arch sits between tall sandstone fins and is reached by a short trail in Arches National Park in December. Because the location receives limited sunlight, snow and ice may remain here after nearby trails have dried.

Broken Arch can be reached from the Sand Dune Arch area or Devils Garden Campground. Confirm trail conditions before attempting a longer loop.

Enjoy the Night Sky

Arches is an International Dark Sky Park, and Arches National Park in December offers long nights that create excellent opportunities for stargazing.

The tradeoff is the cold. Temperatures can drop quickly once the sun disappears, so bring an insulated coat, warm hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear.

Balanced Rock, the Windows area, Panorama Point, and Devils Garden can offer broad views of the sky. Use a red flashlight to preserve your night vision, and stay on durable surfaces.

Hiking in Arches National Park in December

Winter hiking can be excellent when trails are dry. Cooler temperatures make exposed routes more comfortable, and the quiet landscape feels very different from the busy travel season.

The main challenge is ice. Trails may look clear at the beginning but become slippery in shaded sections or beneath rock walls.

Before hiking:

• Check current trail and road conditions
• Ask a ranger about recent snowfall
• Carry traction devices
• Wear warm, supportive footwear
• Pack more water than you expect to need
• Bring a paper map or downloaded offline map
• Allow extra time to finish before dark

Cell service is unreliable throughout much of the park. Do not depend on your phone for navigation or emergency communication.

Easier winter walks

Depending on conditions, good short options include:

• Balanced Rock Loop
• Double Arch Trail
• The Windows trails
• Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint
• Sand Dune Arch
• Skyline Arch
• The beginning of Park Avenue

An easy trail can still become hazardous after snow or freezing rain. Distance alone does not indicate winter difficulty.

More challenging winter hikes

Use extra caution on:

• Delicate Arch Trail
• Devils Garden beyond Landscape Arch
• Primitive Trail
• Tower Arch
• Fiery Furnace routes
• Park Avenue when stairs are icy

These routes may include exposed slickrock, steep grades, difficult navigation, or limited opportunities to avoid hazardous sections.

Fiery Furnace in December

The Fiery Furnace is a maze of narrow sandstone fins and passages at Arches National Park in December. Access requires either an appropriate permit or participation in an authorized ranger-led experience.

Ranger-led tours are generally limited or unavailable during winter. Self-guided permit availability and access can also depend on current conditions.

Snow and ice make navigation and scrambling more difficult. This is not a good place to improvise a route, particularly when daylight is limited.

Road Conditions and Winter Closures

The park entrance and main scenic road are open throughout the year, weather permitting. Temporary closures can occur during and after winter storms.

Potential hazards include:

• Black ice
• Packed snow
• Reduced visibility
• Snowdrifts
• Rocks or debris on the road
• Refreezing after sunset

Drive slowly and leave more space between vehicles. Bridges, shaded curves, and elevated sections can freeze before surrounding pavement.

Plowing priorities and reopening times depend on the storm. The entrance area may be accessible while roads farther into the park remain closed.

Check official road conditions before leaving Moab. Conditions can change overnight, even when the previous day was sunny.

Wildlife in December

Wildlife remains present throughout winter, although activity may be less obvious than during warmer months.

Possible sightings include:

• Mule deer
• Desert cottontails
• Black-tailed jackrabbits
• Coyotes
• Ravens
• Golden eagles
• Smaller resident birds

Animals at Arches National Park in December may appear near roads during the quieter morning and evening hours. Drive slowly, particularly when visibility is poor.

Use binoculars or a telephoto lens instead of approaching wildlife. Winter is demanding, and forcing an animal to move wastes energy it needs to survive.

Never feed animals. Human food can harm wildlife and encourage animals to approach roads, campsites, and parking areas.

If an animal changes its behavior because of your presence, you are too close. Step back and give it more room.

Camping in December

Devils Garden Campground is the only developed campground in Arches National Park in December. It is located approximately 18 miles from the entrance.

The campground normally operates on a first-come, first-served basis during winter, while reservations are generally used during the busier part of the year. Operating procedures can change, so confirm current details before arriving.

Winter camping requires preparation for freezing temperatures. Water systems, comfort stations, and other campground services may be limited by seasonal conditions or maintenance.

There are no showers, restaurants, fuel stations, or lodging inside the park. Moab is the closest community with a broad selection of services.

If you camp, bring:

• A sleeping bag rated below the expected temperature
• An insulated sleeping pad
• Warm base layers
• Extra food and drinking water
• A reliable stove and fuel
• A headlamp
• Traction devices
• Emergency supplies for your vehicle

Do not rely on finding an open campsite without a backup plan. Check current campground status and research alternatives near Moab before your trip.

Visitor Center and Ranger Programs

The Arches Visitor Center is near the park entrance. Winter hours are more limited than they are during the main visitor season, and holiday closures may apply.

The visitor center is a valuable first stop. Rangers can provide current information about:

• Road closures
• Trail ice
• Weather
• Fiery Furnace access
• Camping
• Recommended winter hikes
• Leave No Trace practices

Ranger programs are limited in December and may not operate on a daily basis. Check the official park calendar before building your plans around a guided activity.

Even if no formal program is available, current advice from a ranger can help you choose a route that matches the day’s conditions.

What Is Open in December?

The following are generally available, subject to weather and temporary closures:

• The park entrance
• Arches Scenic Drive
• Major roadside viewpoints
• Designated hiking trails
• Devils Garden Campground
• The visitor center on its winter schedule
• Restrooms at selected developed areas

Services inside the park are limited. There are no restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, or lodging properties.

Bring everything you need for the day before entering. Moab is nearby, but returning to town can take significant time if you are deep inside the park.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Arches National Park?

December is an excellent month for travelers who value quiet trails, winter light, and flexible sightseeing. It is especially appealing to photographers and visitors who do not mind cold weather.

It is less suitable for anyone who wants guaranteed dry trails, extensive ranger programming, long daylight hours, or warm camping conditions.

Final Thoughts

A trip to Arches National Park in December offers quiet roads, uncrowded viewpoints, and the possibility of seeing snow against the park’s red sandstone formations. Cold temperatures and limited daylight require additional planning, but they also create a peaceful experience that is difficult to find during busier months.

Check current conditions, pack for freezing weather, and keep your itinerary flexible. Choose hikes based on the conditions you actually find rather than the routes you planned from home.

With warm layers, traction devices, and enough time to explore safely, December can be a wonderful month to experience Arches National Park.

Travel Insurance for Arches National Park

No matter when you visit Arches National Park, you should definitely get travel insurance.  This can protect you not only against medical and emergency repatriation, but can also cover things like trip cancellation, loss and/ or theft of property, etc.  

A great insurance option is Travelex.  It has coverage for all you’ll need. You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:

‼️ If you just want a quick snapshot about my thoughts on the best time to visit, check out my Best Time to Go to Arches National Park guide.

Enjoy Arches National Park! 

Additional Planning Resources for Arches National Park

⭐ Planning a Trip to Arches National Park: 7 Mistakes to Avoid
⭐ How Many Days in Arches National Park Do You Need?
⭐ Guide To The Arches National Park Reservations System
⭐ The 10 Best Hikes in Arches National Park
⭐ In-Depth Guide To The Devil’s Garden Hike
⭐ Arches Scenic Drive: Complete Guide to All the Stops
⭐ How To Get To Arches National Park
⭐ What Is The Closest Airport To Arches National Park?
⭐ All the Airports near Arches National Park
⭐ When is the Best Time to Visit Arches National Park?
⭐ 10 Tips For Visiting Arches National Park
⭐ 12 Fun Facts About Arches National Park
⭐ Arches Itinerary
⭐ The Best Airbnb Moab
⭐ The Best Books About Arches National Park

What do you think is the best month to visit Arches National Park?  Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).

If you liked this article about visiting Arches National Park in December, pin it to your Arches National Park board!

About the Author

James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.

He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.

Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.

As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.

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