One of the joys of traveling through Arizona this time of year is the diversity of winter landscapes. You find areas that are perfect examples of a winter wonderland you would find in most other areas of the country. You can also find areas that come alive at a time of year when life is considered dead or hibernating for spring. It’s these unique locations that make Arizona the perfect location for winter travel. Check out our suggestions for where to head this winter.
- For pine trees and snow, be sure to visit the Mogollon Rim.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr Any of the little towns along the Rim are great spots to spend a few days basking in wintery bliss.
- Another classic snowy location: the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff.
Terence Chang/Flickr Whether you just want to enjoy hot cocoa while looking at the snow from your bed and breakfast window or get in some serious snow play, the Flagstaff area is the perfect location for winter fun.
- For an epic winter trip, spending a day or two at the Grand Canyon can be absolutely perfect.
Grand Canyon National Park/Flickr The amount of snow the area gets really depends on the season but just keep in mind that the North Rim is closed until May 15. Also, be sure to check the weather conditions before you head out!
- Another pleasant snowy surprise is the Verde Valley.
Jill Blue Moonbeam Studio/Flickr Some years, this area sees heavy snow while others you might be lucky to find a light powder sugar-like dusting covering the landscape. Either way, it makes for a pretty escape, especially when driving along 89A.
- For a snowy retreat closer to home, you can also try visiting the Santa Catalina Mountains.
Kevin Schraer/Flickr Why, yes, you can go skiing while staying in Tucson!
- Take a hike in the Superstition Mountains when the weather is much cooler.
Adam Balch/Flickr If you’ve been wanting to hike in the Sonoran Desert but don’t want to risk heat stroke, this is the perfect time of year to go. The temperatures are cool and the sun is less intense. You might even come across some snow while out there!
- Another perfect winter hiking location: Camelback Mountain.
John Kittelsrud/Flickr If there’s any time of year that makes the tough hike on Camelback Mountain a little more pleasant, it would be winter.
- Any old ghost town or mine tour.
lOaD sToNe/Flickr Visiting these places in the summer is often accompanied by lots of sweat and sunburns. For a more comfortable tour, try visiting in the winter.
- Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix operates every winter.
Ben Cane/Flickr While most similar gardens across the country close their doors this time of year, Phoenix’s garden thrives in the cooler temperatures.
How many of these places have you visited? Are there any other must-see spots you recommend? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Coconino National Forest/Flickr
Any of the little towns along the Rim are great spots to spend a few days basking in wintery bliss.
Terence Chang/Flickr
Whether you just want to enjoy hot cocoa while looking at the snow from your bed and breakfast window or get in some serious snow play, the Flagstaff area is the perfect location for winter fun.
Grand Canyon National Park/Flickr
The amount of snow the area gets really depends on the season but just keep in mind that the North Rim is closed until May 15. Also, be sure to check the weather conditions before you head out!
Jill Blue Moonbeam Studio/Flickr
Some years, this area sees heavy snow while others you might be lucky to find a light powder sugar-like dusting covering the landscape. Either way, it makes for a pretty escape, especially when driving along 89A.
Kevin Schraer/Flickr
Why, yes, you can go skiing while staying in Tucson!
Adam Balch/Flickr
If you’ve been wanting to hike in the Sonoran Desert but don’t want to risk heat stroke, this is the perfect time of year to go. The temperatures are cool and the sun is less intense. You might even come across some snow while out there!
John Kittelsrud/Flickr
If there’s any time of year that makes the tough hike on Camelback Mountain a little more pleasant, it would be winter.
lOaD sToNe/Flickr
Visiting these places in the summer is often accompanied by lots of sweat and sunburns. For a more comfortable tour, try visiting in the winter.
Ben Cane/Flickr
While most similar gardens across the country close their doors this time of year, Phoenix’s garden thrives in the cooler temperatures.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
