Glacier Bay in December: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Harsh season · VisitWhen score 48/100 · #11 of 12 months
December is a harsh-season month at Glacier Bay National Park: crowds run 0% of the July peak (210 average visits), days average 37°F with 6.3 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in December
Glacier Bay averages 210 recreation visits in December — 0% of what July, the peak month, draws — the second-quietest month of the year. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — this is genuine quiet-season territory.
Weather & daylight
It is properly cold (highs average 37°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 31°F). This is one of the wetter months (11.8″ of precipitation on average). Normal snowfall is 20″ — expect snow on the ground. Mid-month daylight runs 6.3 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station ELFIN COVE, AK US (42 mi from park coordinates, 20 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of December.
What to pack for Glacier Bay in December
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 31°F, below freezing
- Rain shell + pack cover — 11.8″ of precipitation is normal this month
- Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters — 20″ normal snowfall
- Headlamp — only 6.3 hours of daylight in mid-December
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
- Bear spray — recommended by the park in grizzly country (check current park regulations before you carry)
Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Glacier Bay are April and May.
Common questions
Is Glacier Bay crowded in December?
No — December is one of the quieter months: 0% of the July peak, averaging 210 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Glacier Bay in December?
Average highs of 37°F, lows of 31°F, 11.8″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, ELFIN COVE, AK US station).
What should I pack for Glacier Bay in December?
Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves; Rain shell + pack cover; Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
Is everything open at Glacier Bay in December?
Park waters are open year-round, but tour boats and most visitor services operate roughly late May–early September. Always check the park's live NPS alerts for current conditions.
See also: the best national parks to visit in December · Last verified 2026-07-16