What to Expect Visiting Yellowstone in December
Yellowstone in December offers fewer crowds and plenty of opportunities for winter activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife watching. While most park roads are closed for the season, snowmobile and snowcoach tours allow visitors to still reach iconic spots like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat, Yellowstone in the winter is a special time to visit. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Yellowstone National Park in December, from weather and wildlife watching to the best things to do and see during your trip.
What to Expect in Yellowstone in Decembr
Visiting Yellowstone in December is a great winter adventure but requires careful planning due to the winter conditions. Here’s what to expect.
Weather and Temperatures: In the winter, Yellowstone transforms into a quiet, snow-covered wonderland. Expect frigid temperatures, with highs often ranging between 10°F and 30°F (-12°C to -1°C) and lows frequently dropping below 0°F (-18°C). On average, December sees the most snowfall of any winter month in Yellowstone.
“Off Season” Ends, Winter Season Begins: From roughly December 15th to March 15th, Yellowstone's winter season is in full swing. The roads between the North and Northeast Entrances are open for self-driving, while interior park roads are accessible by snowcoach or snowmobile. However, before December 15th, Yellowstone reamins in its off-season. The off-season is a transitionary period in the park when summer and fall activities have ended, but the winter season has not yet begun. In early December, the roads between the North and Northeast Entrances are open, but interior road access is closed until the winter season begins.
Lodging: Accommodations in the park are limited in December, with the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel being the only open lodges. Outside the park, you can stay in nearby towns, such as Gardiner, MT, and West Yellowstone, MT. Before December 15th, we recommend staying in Gardiner, MT, as this is the only open park entrance.
Services: Services within the park are minimal in December. Dining is available at Old Faithful Snow Lodge and the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, but the majority of in-park restaurants and shops are closed for the season. However, there are plenty of winter activities to enjoy, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowcoach tours. You can also find services in nearby gateway towns, such as Gardiner, West Yellowstone, and Cooke City.
Road Closures: Most of Yellowstone’s roads are closed to vehicle traffic in December, except the road between the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT) and the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT), which remains open year-round. After December 15th, other roads are accessible by guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours, weather permitting.
Wildlife Watching: In December, animals like bison, wolves, and elk are easier to spot against the snowy landscape. Lamar Valley is a popular spot for wolf watchers, while bison with frosty coats can be seen along the open roads.
Things to Do: Popular winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, photography, and wildlife watching. Once snowcoach and snowmobile travel begins, the park’s geothermal features are particularly stunning, with steam rising dramatically against the cold air.
When to Visit: The winter season officially begins on December 15th, so we recommend visiting after this date if you hope to participate in snowcoach or snowmobile tours to Yellowstone’s interior. Crowds in December are generally minimal; however, the holiday week between Christmas and New Year’s Day may be busier as people travel to Yellowstone to enjoy winter activities during the festive season.
Overall, Yellowstone in December is great for those seeking solitude and a chance to experience the park’s natural beauty in a quiet, snow-covered setting. However, visitors should be prepared for the cold and limited services, ensuring they have the proper gear and reservations in place.
Why You Should Visit Yellowstone in December
Visiting Yellowstone in December is an opportunity to experience the park at its most serene and magical. The snow-covered landscapes create a stunning, almost otherworldly beauty that transforms the park into a winter wonderland. Steaming geysers and thermal features become even more mesmerizing as they create stark contrasts against the snow, with mist rising dramatically into the cold air. This time of year provides great opportunities for wildlife viewing, with bison, red foxes, and wolves more visible against the snow. Fewer visitors mean you can enjoy a more personal and intimate connection with the park, free from the crowds that characterize the summer months.
December also offers unique winter activities that can’t be experienced at other times of the year. Snowcoach tours provide access to areas like Old Faithful while snowshoeing and cross-country skiing allow you to explore Yellowstone’s trails in a peaceful, quiet setting. It’s also a great time for photographers, with breathtaking winter scenes at every turn. In short, December offers a magical and adventurous side of Yellowstone that few experience, making it an ideal month for those seeking winter fun and solitude.
Downsides of Visiting Yellowstone in December
Visiting Yellowstone in December has unique challenges and some downsides, mainly road closures, weather, and reduced services. Here are some reasons you may not want to visit Yellowstone in December.
Severe Weather Conditions: Winter temperatures can plummet well below freezing, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Snow and ice can make travel difficult and even temporarily close the few roads that are open in Yellowstone in December. During snowstorms, there may be days when you cannot explore the park, keeping you inside more than expected. At the same time, less-than-usual snowfall can temporarily close tours that require snow, such as guided snowmobile tours to Yellowstone’s interior.
Limited Accessibility: Winter activities are primarily focused on snow sports, snow tours, photography, and winter wildlife viewing. While snow coaches and snowmobiles travel to different areas of Yellowstone’s Interior—such as the Old Faithful Geyser, Artist Point, Hayden Valley, and Norris Geyser Basin—other famous attractions—such as the Grand Prismatic Spring—remain largely inaccessible unless you plan to snowshoe or cross-country ski.
Bears are Hibernating: While winter is a great time to see certain wildlife, some animals, like bears, are hibernating, so their visibility is reduced. Winter is not the best time of year to visit Yellowstone if you’re hoping to see bears.
Increased Sightseeing Costs: Many of Yellowstone’s roads are closed to vehicles during the winter months. Access to the park’s interior is by shuttle, snowcoach, or snowmobile, which can be limiting compared to the full range of driving routes available in summer. The need to book winter tours and transportation makes December a more expensive time to visit Yellowstone.
Yellowstone Weather in December
December in Yellowstone is cold and snowy, with winter fully settling in across the park. Daytime temperatures typically range between 10°F (-12°C) and 30°F (-1°C), but nighttime lows can dip well below 0°F (-18°C), especially in higher elevations.
Snowfall in December is common; It’s the snowiest month of the year, with an average of 10 days of snowfall. Mammoth Hot Springs, which sits at a lower elevation, receives around 10-15 inches of snow during the month, while areas like West Yellowstone or the Old Faithful region can see much heavier snowfalls of 2-3 feet or more.
Wind chill is another factor in December, as winter winds can make it feel significantly colder than the thermometer suggests. Snowstorms can occur frequently, leading to fresh layers of powder that blanket the park, making it perfect for snowshoeing and skiing but also requiring extra caution for outdoor explorers. Visitors should come prepared for cold, snowy conditions, dress in layers, and ensure they have the proper gear to stay warm and dry. It’s also helpful to have backup plans in case unexpected snowstorms cause temporary delays.
How busy is Yellowstone in December?
December is one of the quietest times of the year in Yellowstone, with visitation dropping drastically compared to the summer months. In fact, the park receives only around 30,000 visitors in December, compared to the several hundred thousand it sees during peak summer months. This makes for a more peaceful and intimate experience, with less competition for wildlife viewing, winter activities, or lodging. Visitors are primarily those looking to experience winter recreation like snowshoeing, skiing, or snowcoach tours, rather than the typical summer tourists.
The Mammoth Hot Springs area generally sees the most activity, as it remains accessible by car from the North Entrance. However, even this area is relatively quiet, allowing for ample opportunities to explore without crowds. Lamar Valley, a prime wildlife viewing area, attracts several wolf watchers in the winter, yet traffic tends to be caused more by bison jams than cars. Overall, December’s low visitation numbers make it an appealing time for those seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with Yellowstone’s winter beauty.
December is a great time to visit Yellowstone for smaller crowds.
What wildlife can you see in Yellowstone in December?
Wildlife watching in Yellowstone is great during winter months, as animals are often easier to spot against the snowy backdrop. Here’s a list of wildlife to look for in December.
Bison: These iconic animals are well-adapted to Yellowstone's harsh winters. You can often spot them plowing through deep snow with their large heads or resting in geothermal areas where the ground is warmer. Bison also take the path of least resistance when traveling through Yellowstone in the winter and can often be seen walking along groomed trails or roadways.
Wolves: Winter is one of the best times to see wolves in Yellowstone. The Northern Range is particularly good for wolf watching, as packs are more easily spotted against the snow-covered landscape. Spend extra time watching for wolves near Blacktail Plateau, Petrified Tree, and Slough Creek.
Elk: Elk are frequently seen in lower elevation areas, such as the Northern Range near Mammoth Hot Springs, where they graze on exposed vegetation.
Coyote: Coyotes are often spotted trotting across snowy meadows or hunting for small prey under the snowpack.
Foxes: These smaller predators can be seen hunting in open fields, sometimes diving headfirst into the snow to catch mice or voles.
Bald Eagles and Other Birds of Prey: Eagles, hawks, and owls are often seen perched on trees or gliding overhead, scanning for prey.
Trumpeter Swans: These elegant birds can sometimes be seen along the rivers that remain unfrozen, especially near the Yellowstone River.
Bighorn Sheep: These animals can be seen in rocky areas, particularly in the Northern Range closer to Cooke City, MT, where they come down to lower elevations to feed.
Best Things To Do in Yellowstone in December
Yellowstone in December is a winter wonderland!
Before roads open around December 15th, the best things to do include scenic driving of Yellowstone’s Northern Range, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, wildlife watching, photography, and exploring the Mammoth Hot Springs.
In mid to late December, you can also take a guided snowmobile or snowcoach tour into Yellowstone’s interior to visit attractions like Old Faithful or the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Here’s more information on the best things to do in Yellowstone in December.
Scenic Driving along Yellowstone’s Northern Range: Driving from Yellowstone’s North Entrance through Lamar Valley to the Northeast Entrance is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the park in December. This route is known as Yellowstone’s Northern Range, and you may spot elk, deer, pronghorn, bison, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, red foxes, and wolves along the way. Plus, you’ll enjoy beautiful winter scenery, such as snow-capped mountains and snow-draped trees.
Wildlife Watching in Lamar Valley: December is a good time for wildlife watching in Yellowstone. Animals like bison, elk, wolves, and coyotes are easier to spot against the snow. As you drive from Gardiner to Cooke City, spend extra time wildlife watching near Blacktail Pond and Petrified Tree, and in Lamar Valley.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: The park has miles of groomed and ungroomed trails, making snowshoeing and cross-country skiing great ways to explore Yellowstone in December. You can hire a guide, bring your gear, or rent gear from Parks’ Fly Shop in Gardiner or the Bear Den Ski Shop at Mammoth. There are many cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails near Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, Canyon Village, and West Yellowstone. To explore trails that aren’t accessible by car, you can reserve a Ski Shuttle from Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel or Old Faithful Ski Lodge.
Photography: Yellowstone's winter landscape is a photographer's dream. From the snow-draped trees to the steaming geysers and abundant wildlife, there are countless opportunities for capturing breathtaking images.
Mammoth Hot Springs: The terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs are a unique sight in winter, with ice and snow mingling with the mineral-rich hot water. The area is also home to the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, one of the few lodging options open during winter. Note: Some sections of the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces may be closed in winter, but we highly recommend exploring all open boardwalk areas.
Snowmobiling: When the winter season begins in mid-December, snowmobiling is one of Yellowstone’s most popular activities. Guided snowmobile tours allow you to explore the park's snowy landscapes, including famous sights like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It's an exhilarating way to cover more ground in the winter. You can enter to win a personal snowmobile permit or join a guided snowmobile tour. Most Yellowstone snowmobile tours begin in West Yellowstone, MT.
Snowcoach Tours: For those who prefer a more relaxed way to see the park, snowcoach tours are also a very popular winter activity and provide a comfortable, heated ride through Yellowstone. Yellowstone National Park Lodges offers snow coach transportation and guided tours from Mammoth to Old Faithful and Canyon Village. Yellowstone Vacations also offers snow coach tours from Gardiner and West Yellowstone to Yellowstone Interior.
Exploring the Geysers and Hot Springs: Visiting the park’s geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles is a must-do activity in December, and the contrast between the hot water and the snowy surroundings creates stunning photo opportunities. Book a snowcoach or snowmobile tour to explore Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, and the Upper Geyser Basin. There are also many cross-country skiing or snowshoe trails around Mammoth Hot Springs and Upper Geyser Basin, the home of the Old Faithful Geyser.
Canyon Village: Since regular roads are closed, you can reach this area by snowmobile or snowcoach tours. For those interested in winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing, shuttles also drop off visitors, giving access to miles of trails to explore around Canyon Village. Note: These winter shuttles begin once the winter season starts around December 15th.
Driving through Yellowstone in December
Only the road between the North Entrance (near Gardiner, MT) and the Northeast Entrance (near Cooke City, MT) is open for driving in December. This route offers access to key areas like Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley but is not a complete circuit of the park. Access beyond these areas is limited before December 15th and, after December 15th, requires traveling via snowcoach or snowmobile.
We highly recommend driving this route between Gardiner and Cooke City, as you can explore the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces and watch for wildlife at your own pace. The park does a great job of keeping this route as clear as possible.
We recommend driving this entire way—from Gardiner to Mammoth to Tower Junction through Lamar Valley and the Northeast Entrance to Cooke City. This route is known as Yellowstone’s Northern Range, and you may spot elk, deer, pronghorn, bison, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, red foxes, and wolves along the way.
Take in the views from the Gardiner River Bridge—particularly when driving back toward Gardiner, it’s spectacular!—and the Icebox Canyon, which sits between Lamar Valley and the Northeast Entrance.
After you arrive in Cooke City, grab a hot chocolate at Cooke City Coffee before turning around. (The Visitor Center in Cooke City also has public restrooms should you need them.)
Watch for wildlife and enjoy the winter scenery as you drive. If you see cars pulled over on the side of the road—and especially if you see someone looking through a scope—safely park and ask if they see something nearby. Consider getting out of the car to walk the terraces at the Mammoth Hot Springs or eat lunch in a pull-off overlooking Lamar Valley.
Driving through Yellowstone in December is one of the best things to do, but it also requires extra caution due to wintery conditions, including the possibility of snow and icy roads. Many rental car companies do not allow snow chains, so driving slowly and preparing for rapidly changing winter conditions is best. Wildlife such as bison can often be seen near or on the road in the winter, which is another reason to drive with caution, and it’s a good idea to keep tabs on possible storms or have a backup plan in case of temporary road closures or snowplow delays.
At a pulloff near Yellowstone's Northeast Entrance.
Where to Stay in Yellowstone in December
Before December 15th, your best bet is to stay in Gardiner, MT, as this is the only park entrance open in early December.
After December 15th/16th—check current year park opening dates here—the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are open within the park.
You can also stay in the gateway town of West Yellowstone, MT, where many snowmobile and snowcoach tours depart.
Here’s a closer look at where to stay in Yellowstone in December.
1. Gardiner, Montana:
Location: Just outside Yellowstone’s North Entrance.
Open: Year-Round
Why Stay Here: Gardiner sits at Yellowstone’s North Entrance, the only entrance open year-round. During winter, you can self-drive into the park from this entrance only. You’ll have access to Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley, some of the best spots for winter wildlife watching. Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, or after December 15th, take a snow coach from Mammoth Hot Springs into the park’s interior for more sightseeing. Gardiner offers a variety of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals, and is a convenient base for winter visitors. We might be a tad biased—after all, we live here part-time—but Gardiner, MT, is our favorite home base for visiting Yellowstone in December.
Location: Located in the northern part of the park, near the Mammoth Hot Springs terraces.
2024 Opening Date: December 15th
Why Stay Here: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is one of the only lodges open within Yellowstone during December. It offers easy access to the Northern Range, a prime area for winter wildlife watching, and the Mammoth Hot Springs themselves. The hotel also serves as a base for snowcoach tours and cross-country skiing shuttles.
Location: Situated near the famous Old Faithful Geyser in the park's interior.
2024 Opening Date: December 16th
Why Stay Here: Accessible only by snowcoach or snowmobile in winter, the Old Faithful Snow Lodge offers a unique and remote winter experience. Guests can explore the nearby geysers and hot springs and enjoy the beauty of the snow-covered geothermal features. The lodge provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere, perfect for a winter retreat.
4. West Yellowstone, Montana:
Location: Located near the park’s West Entrance.
Tours from Yellowstone’s West Entrance Begin: December 15th
Why Stay Here: West Yellowstone is a hub for winter activities, with numerous lodging options and easy access to snowmobile and snowcoach tours into Yellowstone. The town also has the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, a great spot to learn about local wildlife. West Yellowstone is a great choice if you’re looking to join guided tours and experience the park’s geothermal features while having access to town services and amenities.
All of these locations provide great access to Yellowstone’s winter wonders while offering a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the snowy wilderness. We recommend spending 3-4 nights in Gardiner and 3 nights in West Yellowstone/the Old Faithful Snow Lodge.
Check current year dates here.
Getting to Yellowstone in December
The easiest way to get to Yellowstone in December is to fly into Bozeman International Airport (BZN) and then rent a car to drive to Yellowstone’s North Entrance near Gardiner, MT. We recommend renting a vehicle so you can drive into the park from Gardiner to explore Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley.
However, driving in December requires extra caution due to wintery conditions, including the possibility of snow and icy roads. It’s best to drive slowly and be prepared for rapidly changing winter conditions. Bozeman Pass between Livingston and Bozeman can be difficult during winter, as unpredictable weather can cause road closures. We highly recommend avoiding early flights from Bozeman unless spending the night before your flight in a nearby hotel.
If you’d prefer not to drive from the airport to Gardiner, you can browse shuttle options via Silverback Transportation.
December Packing List
Use the following list to start packing for Yellowstone in December so you stay warm, comfortable, and prepared for whatever your winter vacation brings!
Clothing
Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (merino wool or synthetic).
Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jacket for warmth.
Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof winter coat (preferably insulated).
Snow Pants: Waterproof and insulated snow pants.
Warm Hat: Wool or fleece beanie that covers your ears.
Gloves/Mittens: Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens.
Neck Gaiter/Scarf/Buff: For extra warmth and protection against the wind.
Socks: Thick wool socks (bring a few pairs).
Winter Boots: Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction.
Gear
Sunglasses or Goggles: For protection against the sun’s glare on the snow.
Daypack: To carry snacks, water, extra layers, and camera gear.
Trekking Poles: Optional, but useful for stability on snowy or icy trails.
Snowshoes/Cross-Country Skis: If you plan to explore backcountry trails.
Water Bottle/Thermos: Insulated bottle to keep drinks from freezing.
Binoculars: For spotting wildlife from a distance.
Essentials
Sunblock: The sun can be intense even in winter, especially with the reflection off the snow.
Lip Balm: To protect against chapped lips in the cold, dry air.
Camera: To capture the stunning winter landscapes and wildlife.
Phone/Camera Batteries: Cold weather can drain batteries quickly, so bring extras and keep the extras in a warm inner pocket of your coat or backpack.
Nail Clippers/Nail File: Winter in Yellowstone is extremely dry.
Hand Lotion: Really dry.
For Lodging
Swimsuit: Particularly if you’re staying in Gardiner… so you can relax at Yellowstone Hot Springs or Chico Hot Springs.
Comfortable Indoor Clothes: For relaxing in your hotel or lodge.
Slippers: Warm, comfortable slippers for indoor use.
Remember that temperatures can vary, so layering is key to staying comfortable.
We highly recommend investing in insulated boots, heavy wool socks, and gloves (possibly liners + wool/fleece gloves) for wildlife watching.
For mostly scenic driving or guided tours, you’ll hop in and out of the warm car/bus, so you’re probably fine with whatever winter boots and gloves you have in your closet.
And unless you snowmobile often, we recommend renting snowmobile gear at the time of your booking. (When you sign up for the tour, also book rental gear.) You’ll be driving up to 40mph, which makes the temperature feel much colder. Because you’re snowmobiling, not exploring on foot, you won’t work up as much internal heat as you would with cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Wear your thermal layer, snow or sweat pants, winter jacket, wool socks, and buff, then rent gloves, boots, and a snowmobile suit. We also recommend tinted snow goggles over sunglasses.
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Happy Travels!