Skiing and Snowboarding in Arizona 2025

Despite Arizona’s reputation for desert heat, its higher altitudes offer a surprising range of winter sports options. With snow-capped peaks and scenic slopes, Arizona boasts several ski resorts, particularly around Flagstaff in the north, the White Mountains in the east, and even Tucson in the south. Each resort has its unique charm, featuring diverse trails, modern lift options, and convenient rental facilities. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced skier, Arizona’s mountains provide a refreshing twist on the typical winter sports experience.

Best Time to Visit for Winter Sports

The ski season typically stretches from mid-November through April, with the best conditions generally seen in February and March due to consistent cold weather and reliable snowfall. For those seeking fewer crowds, visiting in late January or early March can often offer a more relaxed experience, especially on weekdays when local traffic is lower. However, snow levels can vary greatly, so checking weather conditions in advance is recommended.

Arizona Snowbowl

Located on the western slope of Humphreys Peak near Flagstaff, Arizona Snowbowl is one of the most popular ski destinations in the Southwest. As one of the oldest resorts in the state, dating back to 1938, it has grown into a favored destination for both locals and visitors. With 777 skiable acres and views of the San Francisco Peaks, Snowbowl provides a memorable winter experience. The resort is accessible from Flagstaff, about a 30-minute drive, and is roughly a 2.5-hour drive from Phoenix by car.

Trails and Lifts

Snowbowl offers a range of trails for different skill levels. There are six chairlifts and two conveyor lifts, allowing skiers and snowboarders to reach elevations up to 11,500 feet. Trails are balanced across skill levels, from novice-friendly slopes to challenging black diamond runs, making the resort suitable for both beginners and advanced riders.

Passes and Rentals

Ski pass prices vary depending on the season and day, generally ranging from around $25 to $100. Snowbowl also offers equipment rentals, with prices typically around $25–$50 for a full set of skiing or snowboarding gear, making it convenient for travelers who prefer not to bring their own equipment.

Sunrise Park Resort

Situated in the White Mountains near Greer, Sunrise Park Resort offers a unique skiing and snowboarding experience across three peaks—Sunrise Peak, Cyclone Peak, and Apache Peak. Owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, this resort covers approximately 800 skiable acres, and its varied terrain and elevation of up to 11,100 feet (3,383 m) make it a popular choice among Arizona's skiing locations. Sunrise Park is roughly a 4-hour drive from Phoenix, making it a more remote destination compared to Snowbowl.

Trails and Lifts

Sunrise Park has numerous trails suitable for different skill levels, including advanced runs, a snowboard terrain park, and cross-country trails. The resort features eight chairlifts, accommodating a variety of routes and elevations for a diversified skiing experience.

Passes and Rentals

Full-day lift ticket prices at Sunrise Park range from approximately $77 to $90. The resort also provides rental options, with full packages starting at around $45. For visitors interested in multiple activities, cross-country skiing and snowboarding equipment are also available for rent.

Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley

Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains near Tucson, Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley is one of the southernmost ski resorts in the United States. Situated at an elevation of up to 9,022 feet (2750 m), it offers skiers and snowboarders a modest but enjoyable 5.2 miles (8.4 km) of trails. Due to its lower elevation, Mt. Lemmon typically receives around 180 inches (457 cm) of snowfall annually, with the most reliable conditions in mid-winter. The resort is approximately an hour's drive from Tucson, making it an accessible option for southern Arizona residents.

Trails and Lifts

Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley has three lifts, which take visitors to slopes suitable for intermediate to advanced levels. The resort does not groom its slopes, so visitors should be prepared for more natural terrain, which can vary in difficulty based on snowfall and weather conditions.

Passes and Rentals

Ski passes at Mt. Lemmon are priced at $73 for an all-day ticket and $63 for a half-day ticket. Please note that season passes are not available and daily tickets are sold exclusively at the resort. On-site equipment rentals typically cost around $45. Visitors should be aware that the Catalina Highway leading to Mt. Lemmon may experience closures during heavy snowfall, so it’s advisable to check road conditions before planning your visit.