Things to Do in Bryce Canyon in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Bryce Canyon
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Crystal-clear photography conditions with minimal haze and dramatic temperature inversions that create stunning layered canyon views at sunrise
- Snow-dusted hoodoos create otherworldly landscapes impossible to see any other time of year - transforms the red rock into a winter wonderland
- Lowest crowd levels of the year with parking spots available even at popular viewpoints like Sunset Point and Bryce Point
- Wildlife tracking opportunities in fresh snow - elk, deer, and coyote prints are easily visible on trails like Navajo Loop
Considerations
- Many backcountry trails become impassable without microspikes or snowshoes, limiting hiking options to maintained rim trails
- Extreme temperature swings from -7°C (19°F) at dawn to 4°C (39°F) afternoon require constant layering adjustments
- Limited daylight hours (9.5 hours) means rushed photography sessions and early dinner requirements
Best Activities in December
Sunrise Point Photography Sessions
December offers the year's most dramatic sunrise conditions with temperature inversions creating fog layers below the rim while hoodoos emerge from mist. The low sun angle at 7:30 AM illuminates snow-covered spires with golden light impossible to capture in summer. Cold air eliminates atmospheric haze for razor-sharp distant mountain views.
Rim Trail Winter Hiking
The 18.5 km (11.5 mile) paved Rim Trail remains accessible year-round and showcases snow-covered hoodoos from multiple angles. December's firm snow provides excellent traction while avoiding summer's scorching midday heat. Wildlife sightings peak in winter as animals concentrate near the rim for water sources.
Full Moon Snowshoe Tours
December's long nights and frequent snow cover create perfect conditions for moonlight snowshoeing among the hoodoos. The full moon on December 15, 2025 will illuminate snow-covered formations while temperatures hover around -4°C (25°F) for comfortable winter activity. Echo-free silence in winter amplifies the spiritual experience.
Hoodoo Winter Photography Workshops
Professional workshops take advantage of December's unique lighting conditions and snow-covered formations. The contrast between red rock and white snow creates dramatic compositions unavailable other months. Cold temperatures preserve camera battery life better than summer heat while eliminating tourist photobombs.
Winter Astronomy Programs
December offers 14+ hours of darkness with some of the year's clearest skies due to low humidity and minimal atmospheric disturbance. Bryce Canyon's International Dark Sky designation means Milky Way photography possible even with snow-reflected moonlight. Cold air sharpens star visibility dramatically.
Cross-Country Ski Touring
When snow depth exceeds 30 cm (12 inches), the park's summer hiking trails transform into pristine ski touring routes. December typically provides consistent snow cover on north-facing slopes above 2,440 m (8,000 ft) elevation. Fairyland Loop Trail becomes a 13 km (8 mile) intermediate ski tour through snow-laden hoodoo forests.
December Events & Festivals
Winter Solstice Celebration
The park hosts special ranger programs on December 21st including guided sunrise hikes and presentations about how ancient peoples used the canyon for astronomical observations. Hot cocoa served at visitor center.
Christmas at Bryce Lodge
Historic Bryce Lodge decorates with period-appropriate 1920s Christmas themes and hosts special dinners with local musicians. The great room fireplace becomes a gathering spot for hot drinks and stargazing planning.