Is Yellowstone too cold in December?

Yellowstone National Park in December is nothing short of magical—a vast, snow-covered wilderness filled with steaming geysers, frost-covered trees, and roaming wildlife. But for many travelers planning a winter adventure, one pressing question arises: Is Yellowstone too cold in December? The short answer is: Yes, it can be very cold—but it’s also incredibly rewarding if you’re prepared. Let’s explore what to expect from Yellowstone’s December temperatures, weather, and overall experience.

Yellowstone National Park in Winter

December Temperatures: How Cold Does It Get?

December marks the full onset of winter in Yellowstone. Temperatures can be extremely cold, especially during early mornings and overnight hours. Here’s what you can expect:

Daytime highs: Typically range from 0°F to 20°F (-18°C to -6°C)

Nighttime lows: Often drop to -20°F (-29°C) or lower, especially in interior valleys

These temperatures can feel even colder with wind chill, and high-elevation areas (like the Yellowstone Plateau) experience some of the most frigid conditions in the park.

The coldest areas include:

• Lamar Valley
• Hayden Valley
• Norris Geyser Basin
• Yellowstone Lake

These locations often act as “cold sinks,” where frigid air settles overnight, making them some of the coldest places in the lower 48 states.

Snow and Weather Conditions

By December, most of Yellowstone is buried under a deep snowpack, with several feet of snow covering the ground, especially in higher elevations. Snow continues to fall throughout the month, and storms can be intense, blanketing the park in a fresh white coat.

Key December snow facts:

◉ Snow depth at Old Faithful and Canyon Village often exceeds 2–3 feet

◉ Roads are closed to wheeled vehicles and only open to oversnow travel (snowcoaches and snowmobiles)

◉ Wildlife, such as bison, elk, and wolves, is easier to spot against the white backdrop

While the snow adds to the beauty and serenity, it also means travel is more restricted and requires planning through authorized winter tour operators.

Is It Too Cold to Visit?

Whether Yellowstone is “too cold” in December depends on your expectations, experience with winter travel, and preparation. For those accustomed to cold-weather adventures or eager to see the park in its quietest and most pristine state, December is an extraordinary time to visit. However, for others, it may feel too extreme.

Advantages of visiting in December:

◉ Incredible scenery: Snow-covered geysers, frozen waterfalls, and steaming thermal basins

◉ Wildlife viewing: Wolves, bison, foxes, and other animals are often active and visible

◉ Few crowds: The park sees very few visitors, offering peaceful, uncrowded landscapes

◉ Unique access: Snowcoach and snowmobile tours to places like Old Faithful or Canyon Village offer a rare, unforgettable perspective

Challenges of visiting in December:

◉ Frigid temperatures require multiple layers and proper gear

◉ Limited access: Only a few park entrances are open, and most travel must be arranged through guided tours

◉ Short daylight hours, with sunset around 4:30 PM

◉ No vehicle access to most areas—you must use approved oversnow transportation

Yellowstone National Park in Winter

What to Pack for a December Visit

To enjoy Yellowstone in December, dressing for the cold is essential. Here’s what you should bring:

◉ Insulated, waterproof boots

◉ Thermal base layers

◉ Heavy winter jacket (down or synthetic insulated)

◉ Wool or fleece mid-layers

◉ Waterproof snow pants

◉ Hat, scarf, and neck gaiter

◉ Insulated gloves or mittens

◉ Sunglasses and sunscreen (snow glare can be intense)

◉ Hand and toe warmers (helpful during long wildlife-watching sessions)

Where Can You Go in December?

In winter, only the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT to Mammoth Hot Springs) is open to wheeled vehicles. From there, you can drive to:

◉ Mammoth Hot Springs

◉ Tower-Roosevelt

◉ Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is especially popular for wildlife watching in winter, particularly for those hoping to see wolves.

For deeper access into the park, such as to Old Faithful or Canyon Village, visitors must book snowcoach or snowmobile tours through approved concessionaires departing from West Yellowstone, Mammoth, or other authorized gateways.

Final Verdict: Is It Too Cold?

If you're looking for warm temperatures and easy access to hiking trails, yes, December may be too cold for you. But if you crave solitude, stunning winter vistas, and a once-in-a-lifetime snowy adventure, Yellowstone in December is an unforgettable experience—cold, yes, but beautifully so.

Just remember: the cold is part of the magic. When you see bison plowing through deep snow, hear the distant howl of a wolf echoing in the valley, or watch steam rise dramatically from a geyser surrounded by snow-covered trees, you’ll understand why many winter visitors return year after year.