Flagstaff weather in December
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 5 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Flagstaff brings crisp, cold weather typical of high-elevation Arizona. Daytime temperatures average around 7°C (45°F), while nights dip to -2.7°C (27°F). You can expect roughly 34mm of precipitation spread across about 5 rainy days, often as snow given the altitude. Despite the cold, you'll enjoy around 8 hours of sunshine daily, offering clear, bright afternoons perfect for winter exploration.
This is peak holiday season in Flagstaff, with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and seasonal events drawing visitors. The town transforms into a charming winter destination, though crowds increase noticeably compared to autumn. The high elevation (7,000 feet) creates a genuine winter atmosphere that many travelers seek during the holidays.
For 2026, pack layers and waterproof gear—the weather can shift quickly. December suits travelers who enjoy cold-weather activities and don't mind modest crowds. Book accommodations early, as holiday demand fills rooms fast. The combination of clear skies and manageable precipitation makes this an excellent month for both outdoor adventures and cozy indoor exploration.
What to pack for Flagstaff in December
Flagstaff's December climate demands serious layering. Temperatures hover near freezing, and sudden snow is possible. Bring insulated, waterproof pieces that work together—you'll adjust layers throughout the day as you move between sun and shade.
- Insulated winter parka or down jacket
- Thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic)
- Waterproof winter boots with grip soles
- Wool beanie and insulated gloves
- Fleece-lined rain jacket or shell
What to pack for Flagstaff in December
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Where to stay in Flagstaff
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Flagstaff across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Snowshoeing in Coconino National Forest, visiting Lowell Observatory, exploring historic downtown Flagstaff shops and galleries, hiking around San Francisco Peaks with winter views.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Flagstaff. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Flagstaff
While December has its own character in Flagstaff, the data-backed best months to visit Flagstaff are April, May, June, July. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across a ten-year climate record.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for FlagstaffOther places with a similar climate right now
Flagstaff in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Flagstaff?
Is December a good time to visit Flagstaff?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In December, Flagstaff averages a high of 7°C (45°F) and a low of -3°C (27°F), with 34mm of rainfall across roughly 5 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Flagstaff in December?
What is the average temperature in Flagstaff in December?
The average high temperature in Flagstaff during December is 7°C (45°F), with an average low of -3°C (27°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Flagstaff have in December?
How many rainy days does Flagstaff have in December?
Flagstaff averages approximately 5 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 34mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Flagstaff in December?
What should I pack for Flagstaff in December?
For Flagstaff in December, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Flagstaff in December?
How crowded is Flagstaff in December?
Tourist crowds in Flagstaff during December are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.