Arizona Weather in December
December in Arizona feels calm, refreshing, and bright. The desert air turns crisp, the skies stay clear, and the winter sun brings a soft golden glow to everything from saguaro-studded landscapes to red rock formations. It’s one of the most comfortable months to explore the state, and understanding the weather helps you plan your days with ease. December brings cool mornings, warm afternoons, and chilly evenings. The sun is steady and pleasant, but temperatures can shift quickly because of Arizona’s dry air. You may start your day with a jacket, enjoy warm sunshine at midday, and reach for layers again by sunset.
Overall, expect Dry air, Low humidity, Cool breezes, Bright sun, and Noticeable temperature swings. These patterns make December ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor events without the intense heat of Arizona’s warmer seasons.
Average December Temperatures Across the State
Arizona’s weather changes dramatically by region. Here’s a quick, useful breakdown:
Phoenix & Scottsdale (Low Desert)
Highs: 65–70°F
Lows: 40–45°F
Warm afternoons, cool nights, and sunny skies almost every day. Perfect for outdoor dining, hikes, and golf.
Tucson (Southern Desert)
Highs: 68–72°F
Lows: 40–44°F
A touch warmer than Phoenix, with the same dry, sunny winter feel.
Sedona (High Desert)
Highs: 55–60°F
Lows: 35–40°F
Crisp mornings, gorgeous red rock views, and chilly nights. Great for day hikes and spa retreats.
Flagstaff & Northern Arizona (Mountain Region)
Highs: 35–45°F
Lows: 15–25°F
Expect true winter snow, frost, icy mornings, and a strong chill after sundown.
Why the Weather Changes So Much Across Arizona
The quick shift from desert warmth to mountain cold happens because of elevation.
- Phoenix & Tucson sit in low desert basins: mild winter temperatures and sunny days.
- Sedona sits higher at 4,300 feet, which cools the air and creates crisp winter conditions.
- Flagstaff is over 7,000 feet in elevation—high enough for heavy snowfall and freezing nights.
Just a two-hour drive can take you from blooming desert trails to snow-covered pine forests.
Sunshine, Dry Air & UV Index
Even in December, Arizona’s UV index stays strong. The sun reflects off red rocks, snow, and pale desert sand. The dry winter air can also feel surprisingly sharp.
Keep in mind:
- Sunscreen is important year-round
- Hydration is essential (even when it isn’t hot)
- Sunglasses and hats reduce glare
- Lip balm and moisturizer prevent dryness
What Weather to Expect
A typical December day might look like this:
Morning: 35–45°F, chilly, layered clothing needed
Afternoon: 55–70°F, warm sunshine perfect for outdoor activities
Evening: 40–50°F in the desert, 20–30°F in the mountains
Night: Crisp, cold, and stargazing-friendly
Arizona mornings and evenings cool down quickly once the sun sets behind the mountains, so having a light jacket or fleece always helps.
How December Weather Shapes Your Trip
Because of its comfortable winter climate, December is one of the most popular months for:
- Hiking and scenic outdoor activities
- Holiday festivals and Christmas lights
- Road trips between warm and snowy regions
- Golfing in mild desert sunshine
- Hot-air ballooning
- Food festivals, night markets, and outdoor dining
Whether you’re exploring the desert or visiting higher mountain towns, December gives you the best of both worlds: sunny days and cozy winter nights.
Best Things to Do in Arizona in December
Arizona in December offers the perfect mix of sunny desert days, festive town centers, and snowy mountain landscapes. With mild temperatures in the south and true winter in the north, you get a wide range of activities that fit every travel style.
Top Desert Hikes to Enjoy in Arizona
December is one of the best months for hiking because the sun feels warm, not intense. Trails in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tucson, and Sedona stay comfortable throughout the day.
Popular picks include:
- Camelback Mountain (Phoenix)
- Tom’s Thumb Trail (Scottsdale)
- Sabino Canyon (Tucson)
- Bell Rock Pathway (Sedona)
You can expect clear skies, light breezes, and ideal conditions for scenic walks and photography.
Holiday Light Shows and Christmas Events
Cities and mountain towns come alive with festive celebrations throughout December. Many travelers plan their trips around popular holiday events in Arizona that brighten cool winter evenings with music, lights, and community spirit.
Visitor favorites:
- ZooLights in Phoenix
- Las Noches de las Luminarias at Desert Botanical Garden
- Sedona’s Uptown Christmas lights
- Polar Express Train Ride in Williams
These attractions offer relaxed evenings, great photo spots, and plenty of seasonal cheer.
Skiing and Snow Play in Northern Arizona
For those craving winter fun, northern Arizona delivers. December brings fresh snow, crisp mountain air, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Top spots include:
- Arizona Snowbowl (Flagstaff)
- Oak Hill Snow Play Area
- Nordic Village cross-country skiing
- Sledding hills around Flagstaff
It’s the ideal way to experience a true snowy winter without leaving the state.
Hot-Air Balloon Rides Under Clear Winter Skies
December’s calm morning winds and bright skies make it a prime month for hot-air balloon flights. Phoenix and Sedona are the top destinations for this experience. Expect peaceful views, cool air, and sunrise colors stretching across the desert.
Golfing in Mild Winter Weather
Arizona’s golf season is in full swing during December. Courses remain green, and the comfortable temperatures make mid-morning tee times ideal. Popular destinations include Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Tucson, with championship courses and scenic desert fairways.
Spa Days and Wellness Retreats
With cooler weather and long sunny afternoons, December is perfect for relaxation-focused travel. Many resorts in Scottsdale, Sedona, and Tucson offer winter spa specials, outdoor soaking pools, and wellness classes. It’s a great way to unwind after hikes or holiday events.
Stargazing on Clear Winter Nights
Arizona’s crisp December nights offer some of the clearest skies of the year. Places like Sedona, Flagstaff, and Tucson’s desert outskirts provide excellent dark-sky viewing. Bring a light jacket, step outside after sunset, and enjoy bright constellations and quiet desert evenings.
Day Trips and Scenic Road Drives
Because the weather varies so much by region, December is perfect for day trips that let you experience different sides of Arizona.
Great routes:
- Sedona’s Red Rock Scenic Byway
- Apache Trail near Phoenix
- Desert drives toward Saguaro National Park
- Snowy pine forests along the Flagstaff–Williams corridor
You can move from warm sunshine to snowy landscapes in just a couple of hours.
What to Pack for Arizona in December
Packing for Arizona in December is easier once you know the weather shifts from chilly mornings to warm afternoons. A simple layering strategy keeps you comfortable no matter where you explore.
Clothing Essentials
- Light layers: T-shirts, breathable tops, and a light sweater for flexible comfort.
- Warm outerwear: A fleece or medium jacket is helpful for desert nights and higher-elevation trips.
- Comfortable bottoms: Jeans or lightweight pants work for most activities, from scenic walks to city exploring.
- Cold-weather add-ons (for Northern Arizona): Gloves and a beanie if you’re visiting Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, or other snowy areas.
Footwear
- Walking shoes: Ideal for cities like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson.
- Hiking boots: Needed for trails around Sedona, Superstition Mountains, and state parks.
- Closed-toe shoes: Nights can be cooler, so they add comfort.
Accessories
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, SPF, and a brimmed hat, as UV remains strong year-round.
- Hydration gear: A refillable bottle or hydration pack helps on hikes.
- Daypack: Handy for layers, snacks, and small essentials.
Optional but Useful Items
- Camera or smartphone stabilizer: Arizona’s December skies are perfect for sunrise and sunset shots.
- Portable charger: Essential for long sightseeing days.
- Swimsuit: Some resorts keep their pools heated in winter.
Where to Stay in Arizona in December
Finding the right place to stay can shape your entire holiday experience, and that’s where Good Life Vacations makes December travel easier and more enjoyable. Our hand-picked vacation rentals in Arizona are designed for comfort, style, and stress-free seasonal travel. You get spacious living areas, cozy bedrooms, private patios, and modern amenities that help you relax after a full day of exploring holiday markets, desert trails, or festive events.
Good Life Vacations offers stays across Arizona’s most loved winter destinations, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sedona, and Flagstaff. Each home is curated with thoughtful touches like stocked kitchens, comfortable workspaces, and easy self-check-in, so you can settle in quickly and enjoy more time outdoors. Families love the extra space, couples enjoy the privacy, and groups appreciate the convenience of gathering under one roof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How warm does Arizona get in December?
A. Most cities reach the mid-60s to low 70s during the day. Evenings can be chilly, so carrying a light jacket is helpful.
Q. Does it snow in Arizona in December?
A. Snow is common in northern areas like Flagstaff and the White Mountains. The southern and central regions, including Phoenix and Tucson, remain snow-free.
Q. What are some of the best things to do in Arizona in December?
A. Top picks include holiday light festivals, scenic drives, stargazing, national parks, desert hikes, and Christmas markets across the state.
Q. What should I pack for a December trip to Arizona?
A. Pack layers, a warm nighttime jacket, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a hat for sunny daytime adventures.
Q. Are roads safe for winter travel in Arizona?
A. Most major routes are safe. Northern Arizona might see snow or icy patches, so checking road conditions before driving is a smart idea.