Walking in a Winter Wonderland: 10 places to see snow in Arizona

‘Tis the season for hiking, not for sleigh rides, skiing, and building a snowman. That is, if you limit your travels to the Sonoran desert of southern Arizona. We have all seen the skeleton “But, it’s a dry heat!” joke. While this time of year offers perfect conditions for outdoor adventures in the southern portion of the state, the northern region surprisingly gets bombarded by snow.

Unbeknownst to many, this region of the state is actually one of the snowiest destinations in the country. I drove through the area many years ago on a cross country move (and was shocked by the cold weather and pine trees) and later relocated to the area. I really enjoyed the 4 season climate and the winter season in particular was a lot of fun. During the lengthy winter season which often stretches from November – May, you can enjoy a range of wintry activities you would never find in Phoenix or Tucson like cross country and downhill skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.

There’s no limit to snowy outdoor adventures here with a mix of activities for every interest, whether you prefer downhill skiing or building a snowman. And, the rare sight of seeing Sedona’s marvelous red rocks dusted with snow, is perhaps the most mesmerizing sight of all. And finally, for those who prefer to stay toasty, there are a number of “snow events” throughout metro Phoenix and Tucson.

After living in the area for several years, I have come up with a handy guide to my favorite snowy destinations throughout the state, with most activity centered around gorgeous Flagstaff.

1. Buffalo Park

Flagstaff is a charming mountain community which receives over 90 inches of snow per year. It’s an absolute must-visit for any Phoenix and Tucson residents seeking some nostalgic snowy fun. My first stop after moving here was beautiful Buffalo Park, a wonderful year-round recreational oasis located in the center of the city. The dazzling San Francisco Peaks, Arizona’s highest mountain range, provide the most stunning background that will surely get you motivated to exercise even on the coldest days. I used this park weekly during the summer season for hiking, but my most memorable experiences were snowshoeing after big storms (and there were many!).

Cross country skiing or snowshoeing after a heavy snowfall is an absolute dream come true with the breathtaking 12,633 foot snow capped Peaks in the distance. The main loop is about 2 miles/mostly flat, so perfect for an energizing, yet casual workout. I love the low-key setting here. This park is so quiet and natural, truly a scene right out of a snowglobe.

• Address: 2400 N. Gemini Road
• Admission: Free (no fee to park)
• Read more about my adventures at Buffalo Park

2. Aspen Nature Loop

Arizona Snowbowl is the prime skiing destination in the state. If a fear of tumbling face first down a mountain makes you nervous (don’t worry I feel the same!), there are several fabulous trails to take advantage of instead. Head about 20 minutes outside of the city up beautiful Snowbowl Rd. After enjoying gorgeous views of pines and aspens along this stunning 7 mile drive, you will arrive at the base. Even if you don’t feel like participating in any winter sports, this drive is an activity in and of itself.

Just be aware that the road is often monitored and chains are often required right after a storm (you won’t be allowed up without them). Sometimes, it’s best to wait a few days until the roads are completely cleared for safety reasons. The snow stays around for a while due to the lack of shade from the heavy pine coverage.

My favorite place for a winter snowshoeing adventure is the Aspen Nature Loop, a short yet incredibly scenic trail featuring mesmerizing views of the region’s mountains. Grab your snowshoes (or rent some at any outdoor outfitter) and enjoy the pristine snowy landscapes. If you are a local, I highly recommend investing in a a pair. I bought a pair for under 50 bucks and they easily paid for themselves within a month.

The quiet aspens and pines surrounded by fresh snow truly creates a picture-perfect Currier and Ives style winter wonderland scene. There is never much foot traffic, so you can enjoy the scenery all to yourself. In all of Flagstaff, this is the best place to get lost in nature in a true Narnia-like fashion. Seriously, I could look at these gorgeous mountain views all day.

• Address: 9300 N SnowBowl Rd. Flagstaff
• Admission: Free (no fee to park)
• Trail length: 1.8 miles loop

3. Arizona Nordic Village

Cross country skiing is so much fun, plus it’s one of the best all over body workouts. My first time skiing was at Harriman State Park near Yellowstone many years ago. After moving to Flagstaff, I knew skiing within the beautiful ponderosa pine forest had to be high on my bucket list.

The Nordic Village is a wonderful place for a skiing adventure no matter your skill level. Not only will you find diverse terrain and nicely groomed trails, but the scenery is extraordinary. Both beginners and advanced skiers can choose amongst a variety of trails. If you are totally new to the sport, they do offer intro lessons.

Not a skier? Opt for a snowshoeing adventure (rentals available). Trail conditions are updated on the Nordic Village website. Fortunately, this area sees so much snow that the conditions are great most of the season.

• Address: 16848 US-180, Flagstaff
• Trail passes: $27 for skiing, $17 for snowshoeing
• Rental pricing: $27 for ski equipment, $17 for snowshoeing equipment

4. Fort Tuthill Park

This off the radar park (located just a few minutes outside of Flagstaff) is enjoyably quiet most of the year due to a lack of tourist traffic. I lived just a few minutes away, and thus, this became my go-to for any type of exercise. Because it is located on the edge of town, it’s often overlooked by tourists.

I loved hiking and biking here, however, my favorite time to visit was after a big storm. The isolated snowy scenery and pine forest truly create the most magical wintry wonderland setting. The main path here, part of the Flagstaff Urban trail system (FUTS), is reasonably flat and thus great for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

If snow levels permit (at least 8 inches of snow is recommended), I recommend snowshoeing. Also, this park has plenty of great hills for sledding. On the one downside, the lower altitude city parks (Tuthill is located at ~7000 ft compared to Snowbowl’s 8500+ ft) do not get nearly as much snow as the ski resort. Regardless, if you get out here right after a storm (before the strong sun melts everything), it sure is a gorgeous place for any activity. Fortunately, I lived just 5 min away so I was able to time my visits right after a beautiful storm!

• Address: 2446 Ft Tuthill Lp, Flagstaff
• Admission: Free (no parking fee)
• FUTS map

5. Oak Creek Canyon

Most tourists know about the Grand Canyon, but I’ve met few who know about Oak Creek Canyon. Any relatives I took on this drive were amazed saying it was so much more scenic than the Canyon. In my opinion, a drive down this 14 mile gorge is the ultimate must-do. Your drive begins on Hwy 89a near Kachina Village (a small rural community 7 miles south of Flagstaff) in the ponderosa pines.

Along the way, as the altitude drops from 7000 to 4000 feet, you will encounter various scenery changes, reflecting the drastic change in elevation. Fortunately, I lived right next to the start of the drive! I enjoyed endless trips nearly every weekend. To date, I’ve never found a drive than comes close in comparison to scenic beauty.

Although snowfall is a bit more rare in Sedona vs. Flagstaff due to the lower altitude, it’s even more mesmerizing when it does arrive. After a storm, the snow contrasts with the red rocks so brilliantly, for a landscape like none other. One of my most memorable experiences while living here was seeing the red rocks dusted with snow and hiking the beautiful West Fork Trail (the creek looks so gorgeous dusted with snow).

Address: US 89a between Kachina Village and Sedona

6. Kendrick Watchable Wildlife Park

This small park, known for its’ ample wildlife population, is an easy 30 min drive outside of Flagstaff. During the quiet winter months, I loved visiting this park to enjoy the solitude of the snowy mountain scenery. It’s truly a beautiful and inspiring place. Grab your skis, snowshoes, or winter boots and take some time to walk around the trails, watch for wildlife, and take in the solitude. We have seen so many elk near the road to this park. What an exciting experience, especially as I grew up in Chicago where seeing a few deer was an exciting experience.

This is one of my favorite snowshoeing destinations in the region due to the beautiful uninterrupted scenery. Also, this park offers the most jaw dropping vistas of the Peaks and Kendrick Mountain. The mountains capped with snow really will make you feel as if you are stuck in a snowy winter movie. The park aside, the drive to get here is also quite beautiful, thus justifying the daytrip even more.

• Address: 6325 W Fort Valley Rd. Flagstaff
• Admission: Free (no parking fee)
• Read more about wildlife you may encounter at Kendrick

7. Veit Springs trail

This is another awesome short hike located along Snowbowl Road. Due to its’ hidden location (about halfway up the road), it remains delightfully underused, especially during the cold winter months. As a local, this was one of my favorite spots to escape the tourist crowds. The lush dense forested surroundings made me a bit nostalgic for New England (I moved from Massachusetts).

The 1.5 mile distance is perfect for a short winter walk/snowshoeing adventure. Just a note: it is a bit hard to cross country ski here due to the hilly terrain. Thus, I recommend snowshoeing over skiing on this one. Snowshoeing along this desolate trail, it’s quite hard to believe that you are just a quick 2 hour drive from the cacti studded desert.

• Address: Mile Marker 5 on Snowbowl Road
• Admission: Free
• Note: Backcountry passes required for winter (reserve on the Forest Service page)

8. Enchanted Snowfall at La Encantada Mall

This one is for all you who despise the cold but still want to enjoy the fun aspects of the season. Who says Tucson has zero chance of seeing a White Christmas? Surprisingly, Tucson the city has actually seen a White Christmas on several occasions, the last being 2.6 inches in 1987.

Regardless of what the temps may be this time of year, you can still experience an “Arizona-style snowstorm.” Head over to La Encantada, an upscale shopping mall for their annual “An Enchanted Christmas” celebration. This was one of my favorite holiday memories while living in “The Old Pueblo.” I’ve attended a few similar type events in Florida, but this one has been the most festive thus far. On a side note, Tucson is a really fun destination for Christmas. I had a great time enjoying the unique festivities while living here for a few years.

This show features lively holiday tunes plus a realistic snowfall. It’s really a great time, especially for anyone missing traditional Christmas weather up North. Afterwards, there are lots of shops to browse around, plus several great restaurants (Blanco is a great local Mexican choice), the best gelato anywhere (Frost), and an amazing local coffee roaster (Savaya).

Other “snow events” in metro Phoenix/Tucson

• Tempe Marketplace: Outdoor shopping complex in Tempe featuring snowfall by the tree.
• Desert Ridge Marketplace: Outdoor shopping center in Phoenix offering a show similar to Tempe.
• Winterhaven: Festive over-the-top neighborhood light display with some special effects including snow.

9. Pumphouse Wash (now Matt Ryan Country Natural Area)

This gorgeous secluded hiking area is located in the quiet woodsy Kachina Village neighborhood located about 7 miles south of Flagstaff. Although the trails are primarily used for hiking, it is also a beautiful destination for snowshoeing after a big storm. I lived just up the hill and enjoyed this park several times a week. I have so many great memories of snowshoeing from my house to this beautiful park.

There was never anyone around and it was amazing to enjoy nature this beautiful all to myself. The beautiful pines covered with snow and the frozen creeks created such a picture-perfect backdrop. If you like solitude, this is the place for you.

10. Wupatki-Sunset Crater Scenic Drive

Another picturesque drive I recommend adding to your bucket list is the Wupatki-Sunset Crater Scenic Drive. With stunning scenery and several historic monuments to check out along the way, this is at least a half day activity. The 36 mile paved drive features several jaw dropping overlooks including majestic vistas of the San Francisco Peaks, Sunset Crater, and the Painted Desert. It’s one of my top recommended daytrips from Flagstaff.

There are so many places to stop and take great pictures. If snow levels are not too high, do plan for a stop at Wupatki (a 900 year old, 100 room pueblo) and Sunset Crater (a cinder cone which last erupted in 1085).

• Address: You can start at: 6082 Sunset Crater Road in Flagstaff
• Length: 34 miles

I hope you enjoyed this list. I really enjoyed my time living in Northern Arizona, especially the enchanting winter season. There are so many beautiful places to explore and this is the best time of the year to immerse yourself in nature minus hoards of crowds. The beautiful quiet pine forests, the ample snow, and the stunning mountain backdrops create a picture-perfect setting for a low key adventure through the snowy pines.

There are plenty of budget friendly hotels and cabin rentals in the area. Additionally, there are tons of local restaurants and coffeehouses to support. Overall, Flagstaff is a wonderful base for enjoying any winter sports in the region. Enjoy and have a wonderful vacation!

More fun throughout the state

Snow aside, there’s a lot of great desert hikes in the Sonoran. Phoenix and Tucson are great bases for exploring the Sonoran, plus all the Old Western and ghost towns in the southern portion of the state. For more detailed guides on Flagstaff, plus Sedona, Phoenix, and Tucson, check out my Arizona Travel Guide.