Yellowstone National Park in December sees very low daytime temperatures of -4°C (25°F) and nighttime lows of -16°C (3°F). Rainfall is fairly high this month at around 85 mm (3.3 in), so pack a rain jacket to stay dry.
If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, December may not be the ideal month to visit Yellowstone National Park. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
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Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Yellowstone National Park - and find the best time to visit.
43-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Yellowstone National Park typically drop from around -3°C (27°F) at the start of December to approximately -7°C (19°F) by the end. Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -17°C (1°F) to -12°C (10°F).
43-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Browse day-by-day weather records for Yellowstone National Park spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
According to our 23 years of weather records for Yellowstone National Park, the following extremes were recorded between 2002 and 2025.
Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in December →
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
Winter clothing is essential for visiting Yellowstone National Park in December. If you have a heavy coat, waterproof boots with good traction, and plenty of warm layers it's smart to bring them. Pack cloths like thermal underwear, wool socks, and insulated gloves. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes.
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
See the full Yellowstone National Park climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
Where to go in December - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Miami Beach
25°C (77°F) Kissimmee24°C (75°F) Orlando
24°C (75°F) Destin
18°C (64°F) Los Angeles18°C (64°F) Big Bear Lake9°C (48°F) New York City8°C (46°F) Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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