9 Things to do this Winter in Flagstaff, Arizona

Arizona locals are probably well aware of the region’s reputation as one of the Southwest’s most spectacular winter destinations. Winter in Flagstaff is the most beautiful time of the year. To those not familiar with the diverse terrain that makes up Arizona, thoughts of cacti, sagebrush, and palm trees may be the only thing on your mind when picturing the state. The high altitude Northern Arizona region (Flagstaff’s elevation is one of the country’s highest at 7000ft) is the place to go for skiing and any type of wintry recreation.

Flagstaff, the hub of the Northern Arizona region is a beautiful small mountain town located within the country’s largest ponderosa pine forest. It’s home to the state’s tallest mountain peak (Humphrey’s at 12,633 ft) and offers endless recreation, no matter the season. The city sees over 90 inches of snow each year (I lived here during a massive 3 day, 3 plus feet blizzard). There are so many fun winter sports to participate that you could never enjoy in southern Arizona. These include: skiing at the state’s premier resort, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing.

After living in the region for 4 years, I have compiled my list of my favorite snowy day activities in the region. Contrary to most tourists, I actually prefer this season as I love snowshoeing, cross country skiing, cozying up with a hot cocoa, and watching the beautiful snow fall down! I also love that the vibe is still so positive this time of year. Locals are excited for the ski resort to open, Phoenix residents can’t wait to build a snowman and play in the snow, and tourists can’t wait to cozy up in a beautiful cabin rental. Unlike some northern cities where locals complain all the time about the weather, the cold snowy months are the prime tourist season here!

1. Ski at Arizona Snowbowl

Snowbowl is one of just a small number of ski resorts in the state. Locals love of skiing plus its’ close proximity to Phoenix (just 2 hours) keeps it busy each weekend. The season is pretty long thanks to a whopping average snowfall of 260 inches. Highlights include: the state’s first high speed 6 person lift, a 2300 foot vertical drop, and the most beginner terrain in the Southwest.

One word of advice: try to plan your visit on a weekday or very early in the morning. I’ve been backed up in traffic along Hwy 180 for hours. It’s not an uncommon occurrence. In addition to Snowbowl, Hwy 180 is enroute to many popular attractions. Several snow play areas, various trails, the Nordic Center, and the Grand Canyon are all out this way. This means you could be waiting awhile if you don’t time your visit just right

2. Snowshoe the beautiful high altitude trails

I love getting out my snowshoes to explore the high altitude trails after a big storm. Compared to in town trails (which sits at a lower elevation of 7000 feet), Snowbowl’s trails are usually loaded with snow. The 8000+ altitude and lack of sunshine in the forest means you can use the trails long after a snowstorm. I love city parks like Buffalo and Fort Tuthill but the snow doesn’t stay around as long.

Enjoying a serene snowshoeing walk amongst the snowy pines and majestic snow capped mountain is the perfect alternative for non skiers. Another benefit of snowshoeing vs. skiing is the lack of crowds. While Snowbowl is jam packed all day long, the trails barely see any traffic. Most of the times I felt as if I was in my own private Narnia wonderland.

My favorite snowshoeing trails are the Aspen Nature Loop and Kachina Trail – 2 relatively flat trails with great scenery. Another option is to pick up a backcountry pass and enjoy Veit Springs trail, a nice flat & easy trail located about 5 miles up Snowbowl Rd. Be aware that all 3 of these trails are strenuous year-round due to the high elevation (8000-9000ft). Drink extra water and take it easy! As mentioned above, weekdays and early mornings are your best bets for avoiding stressful ski traffic.

Pumphouse Wash is a wonderful low-key alternative, located about 7 miles outside of the city in the quiet neighborhood of Kachina Village.

3. Check out the local coffee scene

For such a small town, I have to say the local coffee scene is quite impressive. Of course, you will find the standard chains like Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks, as well as seemingly endless drive-thru options (including the super popular Dutch Bros).

I recommend a visit to a cozy independent shop; it’s so nice to enjoy a great cup of joe in a warm inviting atmosphere. Nothing beats refueling with an espresso and pastry and relaxing in a cozy space after a cold day out in the snow.

Late for the Train serves the best coffee and breakfast burritos hands down. The amazing Americano (the best I’ve ever tried to date) keep me coming back here. I also recommend White Dove and Kickstand, both offering a cozy fireplace and couches and a wonderful drink menu featuring several creative mochas. Try the White Chocolate at White Dove & the Endo at Kickstand!).

4. Cross country ski at the Arizona Nordic Village

Unfortunately, the Arizona Nordic Village is often overlooked due to the more popular and heavily advertised Snowbowl. The thought of falling down a hill skiing doesn’t entice me but I love cross country skiing. This wonderful ski center offers a number of groomed trails for all levels in a gorgeous ponderosa pine setting.

Skiing here was one of my most memorable experience while living here. It was so quiet, so beautiful, and a great workout. I really felt lost in a snowglobe as I skied amongst the enchanting pines. I really enjoyed the trails, the beautiful pine scenery, and the semi challenging hills to keep things interesting. They offer a lot of beginner terrain, so it’s a beautiful place to plan your first adventure.

Every Friday night, discount lift and rental packages are offered.

5. Take in the mountain scenery at city parks

Although the high altitude trails at Snowbowl are often covered with a foot plus of snow all season long, the snow in town tends to melt very fast following a storm, due to sunny skies and mild daytime temps. On the bright side, the warmer daytime temps (averages in the 40s-50s) means most of the lower altitude trails are accessible year-round.

While there may not be enough snow on the ground for snowshoeing/cross country skiing, the beautiful San Francisco Peaks and Mt. Elden are often capped with snow most of the season. I would recommend a walk just to enjoy the mountain scenery anytime of the year.

For the best mountain views close to town, head over to Buffalo Park for a 2 mile loop stroll. Other great trails to check out during the winter season include the 11 mile loop system at Campbell Mesa and Ft. Tuthill. Both of the these trail systems are relatively flat.

I used the beautiful FUTS at Ft. Tuthill all the time as I lived right near the park. It’s a great place for recreation year round. Right after a major snowstorm (ideally within a day or 2) is your best bet to snowshoe or ski on these low altitude trails. Any other time, winter apparel and boots will probably do.