9 Things to do this Winter in Flagstaff, Arizona

6. Go sledding

For those not interested in skiing or snowshoeing, sledding is always a fun alternative for both the young and young at heart. Two great free options include Crowley Pit along Hwy 180 (although it gets very congested) and the new-ish Fort Tuthill Snow Play area. For a less crowded alternative, simply head to any local park after a big snowstorm. I like Ft. Tuthill but as I mentioned before, you need to get here right after a storm for the best conditions.

7. Treat yourself to some hearty comfort fare

Stuffed Chicken Sopapilla at Salsa Brava — A stuffed chicken sopaipilla (What Guy Ate) and Roasted Veggie burrito at Salsa Brava.

After a long day of exciting, yet exhausting outdoor sports, you can really work up an appetite. While the city has many chains like everywhere else, I also love the foodie scene. The diverse scene includes everything from Italian, Southwestern Mexican fare, and even trendy sushi places. The downtown is packed on any given night with both tourists and locals enjoying the local food scene.

Salsa Brava, a tasty local Mexican restaurant known for its’ endless salsa bar and Brandy’s, a homestyle American diner, are both Rt 66 favorites which have been featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives. For some hearty Italian fare after a long hike, check out Oregano’s (featuring big portions of hearty Chicago style Italian fare) or Delhi Palace, a wonderful Indian restaurant with the most delicious lunch buffet around.

All you can eat Bowl O'Pasta at Oregano's in Tucson, Arizona — All you can eat pasta at Oregano’s

Lunch buffet at Delhi Palace in Flagstaff, Arizona — Best Indian food in the US at Delhi Palace

Great breakfast at Brandy's in Flagstaff, Arizona — Now that’s a breakfast at Brandy’s! Pictured here is the Spud’s Medley and homemade pancakes.

8. Take a scenic drive

Winter views along Snowbowl Rd in Flagstaff

Depending on the road conditions, winter is one of my favorites times to take a scenic drive. Note that tire chains are often required so I always keep a set in my car.

I recommend grabbing a coffee (I recommend Late for the Train or White Dove), and plan for a cruise up Snowbowl Road or Oak Creek Canyon. Both of these drives are absolutely stunning, and if you have the time, you really drive both.

Snowbowl Road offers dramatic vistas of the pines, aspens, and snow capped mountains. Oak Creek Canyon features striking views of Sedona’s towering red rock formations, peaceful views of the perennial Oak Creek, as well as dramatic landscapes of the gorgeous ponderosa pine forests.

Snowbowl Road

Snowbowl Rd is a 7 or so mile drive which begins just a few miles outside of the city. Near the top there is a wonderful overlook of the mountains, which is particularly attractive at sunset. From here, you can ski at Snowbowl, snowshoe the trails, or simply take a few photos of the gorgeous landscapes.

Sunset at Snowbowl in Flagstaff, Arizona — I love watching the sunset from the base of Snowbowl

Snow capped peaks in Flagstaff AZ — Snow capped peak views at Snowbowl

Aspen Nature Loop snowshoeing — A winter wonderland on the Aspen Nature Loop

Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon drive also begins just outside of town – along 89a – as it slowly winds its’ way through 14 miles of diverse landscapes. The elevation begins at 7000 feet near Flagstaff and drops to near 4000 ft in Sedona. The views are the most jaw dropping I’ve seen anywhere out West thus far.

For a real jaw dropping experience, drive Oak Creek just after a winter storm – seeing the red rocks and a prickly pear cactus dusted with snow is such an awe inspiring experience! Oh, and be sure to stop for breakfast at the wonderful Indian Gardens (best breakfast in the state in my experience). I also recommend a stroll along West Fork and shopping for Native American crafts at the Oak Creek overlook.

Sedona's West Fork Trail after a big winter storm — Snow dusting beautiful Oak Creek

Wintry creek views along Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona — A tranquil winter walk along West Fork

Snow covering Sedona's red rocks — Gorgeous views of Sedona’s red rocks covered with snow via the West Fork trail

Sunset-Wupatki Scenic Loop

Sunset-Wupatki Scenic Loop drive is yet another option. If you do decide on this drive, I recommend visiting both Sunset Crater, a 900+ year old volcano and Wupatki (where you can explore ancient Indian dwellings from as far back as 1100 AD), as both are amazing national monuments (and both are included together with your admission). The scenic drive and visits to both national monuments easily fill up a half day itinerary, making for a great value in a pricey area.

Snowy views of the san Fran Peaks from Bonito Meadow in Flagstaff — Gorgeous snowy views of the San Francisco Peaks from an overlook along the Sunset-Wupatki Scenic Loop Drive

9. Plan a day trip to a national monument

The beautiful Petrified Forest in Northern Arizona — An up-close look at a piece of ancient petrified wood. A day trip the Petrified National Forest, just 1.5hrs away, is a must-see!

This region of the state is home to seemingly endless natural wonders, hence the reason why so many tourists from around the world flock to the area each year. I’ve never seen more tourists than during my time living in Flagstaff. The town was packed each weekend.

The city is a great base for exploring historic sites and national/state parks. I recommend checking out the 7 Wonders for starters. The city has been nicknamed “The City of Seven Wonders,” due to its’ location near so many incredible places. I definitely recommend checking out a few while you are so close.

Although a trip to the Grand Canyon is a must, there are many other natural wonders to add to your to-do list. I recommend: Sunset Crater, Wupatki, Walnut Canyon, Montezuma Castle, and the Petrified National Forest. If you are up for a longer day trip, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon is another worthy addition. This time of the year is a great time to get out there and explore these gorgeous natural wonders in a less hectic environment. It’s cold but snow is a bit more rare.

River view from the Grand Canyon Kaibab trail — Assuming there is no snow, this is a great time to visit the canyon

Horseshoe Bend in Arizona — Horseshoe Bend is amazing site worth the daytrip

Wupatki National Monument — At Wupatki, you will be able to explore ancient ruins dating back to 1100.

Why visit in the winter?

Advantages of visiting this time of year include fewer crowds (expect Snowbowl) and cooler temperatures, although some roads and trails (especially at the Grand Canyon) may be closed after a major snowstorm. Also, there really is a lot to do with all the snowy activities and special seasonal festivities.

Additional details

Where to stay: Flagstaff offers a bit of everything, from budget friendly chains, to resorts like the Little America, to rustic cabin rentals. For a quiet retreat in the pines, check out a B&B like Abineau Lodge.

Attractions to visit: Lowell Observatory, Arizona Snowbowl, Flagstaff Nordic Center, Ft. Tuthill Snow Park

Where to rent ski/snowshoe equipment: Ski Haus, Peace Surplus, Arizona Snowbowl, Nordic Village

Where to eat: Delhi Palace, Oreganos, Salsa Brava, Beaver Street Brewery, Late for the Train

Tips for a smooth visit: Drink plenty of water & avoid alcohol to avoid dehydration and mountain sickness. Dress in layers as winter temps vary drastically day to night. Be prepared for very cold morning & night temperatures. Plan on winter activities early in the mornings to avoid traffic & crowds. Book your hotel way in advance for better rates.