Is it a good idea to visit Zion National Park in December?

December is a great time to explore Zion without the crowds. The glistening snow in the canyon and on top of the towering cliffs makes the park very photography-friendly. Make sure to catch sunrise or sunset from Canyon Overlook Trail or Watchman Overlook Trail.



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Winter (December to February) Winter is a quieter time to visit Zion National Park with fewer visitors and the opportunity to see the park covered in snow. However, some areas of the park may be closed or inaccessible due to snow and ice.

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Carmel Tunnel, the Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive. During most years, shuttles run: Daily from March through November. For the holiday season near the end of December.

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Winter is certainly a great time to visit Arches National Park. With fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and a beautiful dusting of snow resting on the red rock formations, Arches in winter is a dreamy place.

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For the average national park explorer, late spring or early fall is the best time to visit Zion. From April to May and September to October, the weather is good, crowds are fewer, and hiking conditions are optimal.

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Zion National Park is open year-round, but about 70 percent of visitors come between April and September. If you have the flexibility, making the trip during the park's off-peak months of October through March means less crowded hiking trails and fewer view-blocking selfie sticks.

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This trail is extremely dangerous during icy or snowy conditions. Check conditions before you hike and prepare accordingly. If parking at the Grotto and along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is full you may need to park at a nearby trailhead, or return later when parking is available.

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In many national parks, staying inside the park is important. At Zion, staying outside the park might actually be a little better. Don't worry too much. This is one of those happy situations where both choices are very good.

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December: As winter begins creeping in, the Joshua Tree area sees average high temperatures of 60°F and lows of 40°F (and keep in mind that many nights will dip below freezing). Snow and ice can occur in Joshua Tree and the surrounding areas of the desert in December.

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Both parks are incredibly popular destinations with unique features that draw in visitors from all over. While Zion tends to be busier due to its proximity to Las Vegas, Bryce Canyon offers incredible views of its iconic red-rock hoodoos and stunning natural landscapes.

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Zion Hikes From the Visitor Center While the Watchman Trail has you winding through the canyons to the final panoramic viewpoint of lower Zion Canyon and the town of Springdale. Since these trails are not along the Scenic Drive, you don't need to take the Zion shuttle to hike the Pa'rus Trail or Watchman Trail.

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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.

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Open-toed shoes of any kind should be left at home. However, hiking sandals are fine for the leisurely hikes in the park. Heavy hiking boots are not the best option for hiking in Zion due to the fact that they often inhibit ankle movement, but if it's the only thing you have, you'll probably be okay.

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