Mount Rushmore in December
Thinking about a visit to Mount Rushmore in December? Curious if it’s a good time to go, or worried about the cold weather when visiting Mount Rushmore?
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from what the weather is typically like in December to whether the temperatures are manageable. Plus, find out what’s open at the park this time of year and how many visitors you can expect in December. Read on to plan your winter visit!
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Mount Rushmore Weather in December
In December, the average daytime high at Mount Rushmore is around 37°F (3°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 19°F (-7°C). In December 2023, there was a recorded high in the park of 64°F (18°C) and a nighttime low of 12°F (-11°C).
December is one of the driest months at the park, with only about 2 days of rain expected, though 7 inches of snow can be expected. The days are much shorter in December with the shortest day of the year on December 21st, with sunset at around 4.20 pm.
Is Mt Rushmore open in December?
Yes, Mount Rushmore is open in December, though fewer facilities are available compared to the summer months. The Sculptor’s Studio, which closed at the end of September, will remain closed until May, and there is no evening lighting ceremony.
However, the monument is illuminated from sunset until 9pm each evening, providing a beautiful view of the mountain in winter.
Opening hours of Mt Rushmore in December
In December, Mount Rushmore’s parking structure and grounds are open from 7am to 9pm. The Visitor Center and Information Center are also open daily from 8am to 5pm. With sunrise starting around 7:10am at the beginning of December by the end of the month, sunrise is at 7.30am, meaning there’s no need to arrive much earlier than 7am, as visibility will be limited before then.
There is no evening lighting ceremony in December, but you can still enjoy the sight of the monument illuminated from sunset around 4.15pm until 9pm. The Sculptor’s Studio remains closed throughout the winter and won’t reopen until May.
If you’re visiting during December, the gift shop is open from 8am to 6pm, offering a place to warm up after viewing the lit-up monument or if it’s cold outside during the day. The café is open from 8am to 4:30pm, providing hot drinks and snacks to keep you warm during your visit.
Is December a good time to visit Mount Rushmore?
December can be a good time to visit Mount Rushmore, as the park sees fewer visitors during the winter. While the temperatures during the day can be chilly, they are manageable with the correct clothing.
If you plan to stay and see the monument lit up in the evening, be sure to bring extra layers to keep warm, as it can get quite cold after sunset. However, the weather is generally dry, making for a pleasant visit.
Is Mount Rushmore busy in December?
December isn’t the quietest month, but is one of the quietest months at the park, with 29,944 visitors in 2023 and 32,149 in 2022. The days are colder and shorter, but if you’re looking to avoid the summer crowds, this can be an ideal time to visit.
Is the Presidential Trail open in December?
The Presidential Trail is open year-round, though it may close due to ice or snow in December. Parts of the trail have wooden stairs that become slippery when icy or covered in snow, so there’s a chance the hike might not be accessible during December.
Where to stay when visiting Mount Rushmore in December
If you’re looking to stay near Mount Rushmore during your visit to the Black Hills, the closest town is Keystone, just 3 miles from the monument. Keystone offers plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from.
Alternatively, there are many other small towns throughout the Black Hills that also provide accommodation options.
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