Littlerock in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Littlerock

18°C (64°F) High Temp

2°C (36°F) Low Temp

38 mm (1.5 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect Christmas atmosphere with snow-dusted San Gabriel Mountains backdrop creating authentic winter holiday vibes without extreme cold
Significantly fewer crowds at nearby attractions like Devil's Punchbowl and Angeles National Forest, with parking spots readily available
Clear, crisp air after winter storms offers exceptional visibility for desert hiking and rock formations - best photography conditions of the year
Peak season for desert wildlife viewing as animals are more active in cooler temperatures, especially at guide to Saddleback Butte State Park

Considerations

Strong Santa Ana winds can reach 80+ km/h (50+ mph) making outdoor activities uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous
Many desert camping areas close or have limited services due to unpredictable weather patterns
Daylight hours are shortest of the year - only 9.5 hours of daylight limits hiking and outdoor exploration time

Best Activities in December

Antelope Valley Desert Photography Tours

December's cool temperatures and crisp post-storm air create ideal conditions for capturing the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert landscape. The low winter sun angle enhances rock formations and creates dramatic shadows. Wildlife is more active in cooler weather, increasing chances of photographing desert animals.

Booking Tip: Book guided photography tours 7-10 days ahead as winter weather can cause cancellations. Tours typically cost $150-250 per person for half-day excursions. Look for operators who provide weather backup dates and include equipment protection from wind and dust.

Angeles National Forest Winter Hiking

Cool December temperatures make challenging desert and foothill hikes comfortable during midday hours. Clear post-storm skies offer spectacular views of snow-capped peaks. Trails are less crowded, and the risk of rattlesnake encounters is virtually zero in winter months.

Booking Tip: Self-guided hiking is popular, but guided winter hiking tours cost $80-120 per person. Start hikes between 10am-2pm for optimal temperatures. Check weather conditions day-of as trails may close during Santa Ana wind events exceeding 65 km/h (40 mph).

Vasquez Rocks Geological Tours

December's cooler weather makes exploring these famous tilted rock formations comfortable for extended periods. The dramatic geological structures are enhanced by winter's clear air and low-angle sunlight. Perfect for families as extreme summer heat isn't a factor.

Booking Tip: Educational geological tours typically run $45-75 per person for 2-3 hour guided experiences. Book through certified naturalist guides who can navigate safely during windy conditions. Self-guided visits are free but arrive early as parking fills by noon on weekends.

Saddleback Butte Desert Wildlife Viewing

Winter is prime time for desert wildlife as animals are most active in cooler temperatures. December offers excellent opportunities to spot desert tortoises, roadrunners, coyotes, and various bird species. The Joshua trees create striking winter silhouettes against clear skies.

Booking Tip: Guided wildlife tours cost $90-140 per person for morning excursions starting at 8am. Book with operators who provide binoculars and field guides. Tours may be cancelled during high wind days, so choose operators offering flexible rescheduling within your travel window.

Holiday Light Tours and Seasonal Festivities

Local December holiday displays take advantage of the clear desert air for enhanced visibility. Nearby Palmdale and Lancaster feature elaborate Christmas light displays. The cooler weather makes evening walking tours comfortable, and mountain backdrops add scenic beauty to holiday decorations.

Booking Tip: Holiday tour packages typically cost $35-60 per person including transportation between display locations. Book early December for best selection as tours often sell out closer to Christmas. Look for tours that include hot beverages and indoor warming stops.

December Events & Festivals

Mid December weekends

Antelope Valley Desert Tortoise Preserve Winter Guided Walks

Special winter naturalist-led walks focusing on desert adaptation and wildlife tracking when animals are most active in cooler temperatures

Throughout December on clear nights

Angeles National Forest Winter Astronomy Programs

Clear December skies and minimal light pollution create ideal stargazing conditions. Programs focus on winter constellations and holiday star lore

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Insulated windbreaker jacket - Santa Ana winds can make 18°C (64°F) feel like 10°C (50°F)

Layered clothing system from t-shirts to warm fleece - temperature swings of 16°C (28°F) between day and night

Sturdy closed-toe hiking boots - desert terrain is rocky and potential for cactus spines year-round

SPF 30+ sunscreen despite winter season - desert reflection and 1,200m (4,000 ft) elevation increases UV exposure

Polarized sunglasses - essential for desert glare and wind protection during outdoor activities

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - prevents loss during strong wind gusts up to 80 km/h (50 mph)

Moisturizer and lip balm with SPF - desert air and wind cause rapid dehydration of skin

Headlamp or flashlight - December has only 9.5 hours of daylight, darkness comes early

Reusable water bottles (2+ liters capacity) - desert conditions require constant hydration even in winter

Camera lens cleaning cloths - wind kicks up dust that can damage equipment and obscure photos

Insider Knowledge

Start outdoor activities by 10am - afternoon Santa Ana winds typically peak between 2-6pm and can make hiking dangerous

Check CalFire wind speed alerts before heading to Angeles National Forest - many trails close when sustained winds exceed 40 mph for safety

December storm cycles bring 2-3 days of clear, spectacular weather followed by potential wind events - plan flexible itineraries around weather windows

Local gas stations in Pearblossom and Valyermo often have better prices than highway stops, and they're your last chance for supplies before entering remote areas

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating wind intensity - tourists often cancel outdoor plans unnecessarily, but mornings before 11am are typically calm even on windy days

Overdressing for daytime desert activities then being unprepared for evening temperature drops of 16°C (28°F)

Planning full-day outdoor itineraries without accounting for only 9.5 hours of December daylight - many miss sunset photo opportunities