One of the many great things about living in Arizona is the variety of weather and landscaping. Though many out of staters would think you could never see snow living as a Phoenician, we know that simply isn’t true. If you’re looking to get away for the weekend for some quick winter fun, Flagstaff and its nearby towns are the place to be. Here is a list of a few places you can enjoy up north!
Skiing at Arizona Snowbowl
Arizona Snowbowl is on the western slope of Mount Humphreys. It boasts 55 different runs, with the longest run being 2 miles! If you’re not able to come in January, no worries, the ski season runs from mid November to about mid April! Don’t know how to ski? The lovely folks at Snowbowl will teach you how with a nominal fee. To learn more about snowbowl or to plan your trip, click here.
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing at Nordic Village
Nordic Village offers summer activities and winter activities. Although lesser known than Snowbowl, it doesn’t offer any less. They allow cross country skiing, snowshoeing, fat baking, and even offer lessons! If you’re looking for an interesting night stay, Nordic Village offers Yurts and Cabins for rent.
To learn more about AZ Nordic Village and plan your trip click here.
Sledding in Flagstaff
Have little ones that might not be ready for big hills but still want enjoy the winter fun. Flagstaff offers many places for you to bring the family, and your favorite sled to enjoy your time together at your own pace! Below is a map of where you can sled. If you would like more information on sledding spots click here.
Cabin Life
Maybe you just want to relax in the quiet nature of Flagstaff and enjoy the view of snow from a comfy cabin. There are 17 fully furnished cabins on 13 secluded acres filled with ponderosa pines. Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins are here to give you fabulous views of the San Francisco Peaks and Coconino National Forest. To plan your stay click here.
Lowell Observatory
Want to stargaze and be out of the cold, visit Lowell Observatory. During your visit you can experience science talks, historical tours, open houses, and of course, stargazing! To learn more and plan your visit click here.
Just a short drive past Flagstaff and you’ll end up in Williams, Arizona, the Gateway to the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon & Grand Canyon Railway
Visiting the Grand Canyon during the winter is definitely cold, but it offers a view of the Grand Canyon that you couldn’t have imagined otherwise. And a great way to do a day tour of the Grand Canyon is taking the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, AZ to the Grand Canyon and back. You’ll be entertained on the ride over with western musicians and cowboy characters on vintage rail rides. Is it just the adult going, splurge and ride in the Luxury Parlor where you’ll enjoy a private bar and snacks. Then tour the canyon and ride home same day, or have a stay at Grand Canyon and ride back on another day! For more information or to plan your excursion click here.
Canyon Coaster
Looking for some more winter fun. Hit up Canyon Coaster for family adventure in Snow Tubing. From mid November until Easter they guarantee snow so that you can zip down their snow slopes on your inner tube. No equipment or special skills needed. This activity is great for everyone! To learn more click here.
Pizza Factory
When you’ve been all snowed out for the day, warm up with a nice slice of pizza at Pizza Factory, a personal favorite of the Garcia Group. Pizza Factory has been a hometown pride and joy for over 30 years. Not only do they make a great pie but they also support their community. To grab a slice click here.