North Cascades in December: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack

Harsh season · VisitWhen score 22/100 · #12 of 12 months

December is a harsh-season month at North Cascades National Park: crowds run 0% of the July peak (13 average visits), days average 32°F with 8.3 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.

Access warning: State Route 20 (the North Cascades Highway) typically closes November–late spring due to avalanche danger. That typically affects December — verify before planning. Current NPS conditions →

Crowds in December

North Cascades averages 13 recreation visits in December — 0% of what July, the peak month, draws — the quietest month of the year. Trailheads and parking fill accordingly — this is genuine quiet-season territory.

Average visits (December)

13 (mean 2021–2025, NPS)

Share of the year

0% of annual visitation

vs. peak (July)

Weather & daylight

Days are cold (highs average 32°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 26°F). This is one of the wetter months (7.2″ of precipitation on average). Normal snowfall is 51″ — expect snow on the ground. Mid-month daylight runs 8.3 hours.

NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station STEHEKIN 4 NW, WA US (12 mi from park coordinates, 1,257 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of December.

What to pack for North Cascades in December

Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.

Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 26°F, below freezing
Rain shell + pack cover — 7.2″ of precipitation is normal this month
Traction devices (microspikes) and gaiters — 51″ normal snowfall
Headlamp — only 8.3 hours of daylight in mid-December
Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month

If your dates are flexible, consider shifting: The computed best months for North Cascades are May and June.

Common questions

Is North Cascades crowded in December?

No — December is one of the quieter months: 0% of the July peak, averaging 13 visits (NPS, 2021–2025).

What is the weather like in North Cascades in December?

Average highs of 32°F, lows of 26°F, 7.2″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, STEHEKIN 4 NW, WA US station).

What should I pack for North Cascades 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 North Cascades in December?

State Route 20 (the North Cascades Highway) typically closes November–late spring due to avalanche danger. 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