Visiting Yellowstone National Park in December offers a unique and serene winter wonderland experience. With snow-covered landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a range of outdoor activities, December is an excellent time to explore this iconic American park.
Weather in Yellowstone Park in December
Yellowstone National Park experiences a cold and snowy winter, making December an ideal time to enjoy the park’s winter beauty. Here are some key details about the weather in Yellowstone during this month:
| Weather Metric | Average |
|---|---|
| High Temperature | 30°F (-1°C) |
| Low Temperature | 14°F (-10°C) |
| Snowfall | Significant |
The cold temperatures and abundant snowfall create a winter wonderland, perfect for a variety of outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Yellowstone Park in December
Yellowstone National Park offers a range of exciting activities and experiences for visitors during the winter months. Here are some of the top things to do in Yellowstone Park in December:
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
Explore the park’s backcountry on snowshoes or cross-country skis, with rentals available at Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful. This is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the serene and snow-covered landscapes of Yellowstone.
Snowmobiling
Discover the park’s trails on a guided snowmobile tour or with a Non-Commercially Guided Snowmobile Access Program permit. This is a thrilling way to cover more ground and see the park’s winter beauty.
Wildlife Watching
Observe bison, elk, river otters, and other animals in their winter habitats. With fewer visitors, you’ll have a more intimate experience and better opportunities to spot wildlife.
Ice Skating
Enjoy outdoor ice skating rinks at Mammoth Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge, providing a fun and festive winter activity.
Accessibility and Transportation in Yellowstone Park in December
During the winter months, Yellowstone National Park’s accessibility and transportation options change to accommodate the snowy conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
Road Closures
Most park roads are closed to automobiles, except for the road from the North Entrance to the Northeast Entrance. Other roads are accessible only by over-snow transportation, such as snowcoaches.
Snowcoach Transportation
Daily round-trip snowcoach transportation is available between Mammoth Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge, providing guided tours of Yellowstone’s winter scenery.
Winter Shuttle
A daily winter shuttle is available from the Bozeman Airport to/from Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, helping visitors avoid the need to rent a vehicle.
Accommodations in Yellowstone Park in December
Yellowstone National Park offers several accommodation options for visitors during the winter months, including:
Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins
Open from December 16 to March 3, the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins provide access to winter activities and amenities, including the Obsidian Dining Room.
Mammoth Hotel and Cabins
Open from December 15 to March 4, the Mammoth Hotel and Cabins offer a base for exploring the park’s winter wonders.
Planning and Booking for Yellowstone Park in December
When planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park in December, consider the following tips:
- Reservations can be made with less advance notice compared to the summer, but booking early is still recommended, especially for holiday periods.
- Look for packages that include dinner reservations, guided tours, and other activities to make the most of your winter visit.
- Dress warmly, with layers, gloves, hats, and waterproof gear to handle the cold and snowy conditions.
- Research and book accommodations, transportation, and activities in advance to ensure availability.
Visiting Yellowstone National Park in December offers a peaceful and enchanting winter experience, with unique activities, wildlife viewing, and the opportunity to explore the park’s natural beauty in a serene and snowy setting.
References:
– https://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/connect/yellowstone-hot-spot/faq-everything-you-need-to-know-about-visiting-yellowstone-in-winter/
– https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/visiting-yellowstone-in-winter.htm
– https://www.yellowstonepark.com/park/weather-seasons/winter-in-yellowstone/
– https://travelwyoming.com/article/winter-guide-yellowstone-national-park
– https://wildlandtrekking.com/yellowstone-visitor-guide/visiting-yellowstone-in-december/