During the winter months, Arizona becomes a winter wonderland of sugary white, snow-capped peaks that are perfect for downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
1. Arizona Snowbowl
Located on the San Francisco Peaks north of Flagstaff on Highway 80, Arizona Snowbowl features 32 trails, a terrain park and a vertical drop of 2,300 feet. If you love jibbing, I’d stick to the terrain park. Those looking for a challenging run should hit the upper bowl.
*It’s important to note, however, that this is not the safest place to bring young children to ski; the chair lifts are old without bars, and are in need of replacement.
N Highway 180 & N Snow Bowl Rd
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-779-1951
www.arizonasnowbowl.com
2. Sunrise Park Resort
As Arizona’s largest ski resort, the Sunrise Park Resort is tucked away in the charming mountain town of Greer in north central Arizona, featuring three mountains and 65 runs. There is also a separate snowboarding area, cross-country ski trails and a special childrens’s “ski-wee” area.
P.O. Box 117
Greer, AZ 85927
928-735-7669
www.sunriseskipark.com
3. Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley
Located just about an hour from Tucson, Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley features 21 ski trails for hours of family fun. With a tasty indoor restaurant and casual patio café, Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley promises a day full of excitement. Most of the trails are geared towards the intermediate skier. For a more experienced skier, head for the Hot Dawg or the Lemmon Drop Trails.
10300 Ski Run Rd.
Mt. Lemmon, AZ 85619
520-576-1321
www.skithelemmon.com
4. Flagstaff Nordic Center
If cross country skiing or snowshoeing appeals, then you’ll love the 25 miles worth of trails at the Flagstaff Nordic Center in Flagstaff’s Coconino National Forest. Challenge yourself to the Peak-A-View and Bear Jaw Trails with a reward of beautiful views that are well worth the work.
P.O. Box 1781
Flagstaff, AZ 86002
928-220-0550
www.flagstaffnordiccenter.com
5. Elk Ridge Ski and Outdoor Recreation Area
With two lifts and seven trails, the Elk Ridge Ski and Outdoor Recreation Area on Historic Route 66 near Williams is perfect for families or beginning-intermediate skiers.
928-814-5038
www.elkridgeski.com
