Can you believe that parts of Arizona have already been covered in snow at least twice? Thanksgiving hasn’t even arrived! Weather reports for the last few weeks have been telling us that this year we may expect a much wetter winter. This, of course, means that we can only hope that precipitation translates to more snow all around the high country (and even down into other areas that don’t typically see snow). Let’s focus on all the positive attributes of winter in Arizona. Check out the photos below to remind yourself why you should be looking forward to this season.
- Despite what others think, winter in Arizona, especially this year, for sure means encountering snow.
Yukun Chen/Flickr This photo was taken along the Arizona Trail near the Grand Canyon.
- Feeling that first crunch when you step into the snow? Perfect.
Simply_Happy/Flickr
- Foggy days don’t happen often but they are a treat, especially when coupled with snow.
Grand Canyon National Park/Flickr
- One of the best parts of winter in Arizona? It’s still sunny!
Michael Wifall/Flickr Anyone from notoriously cold climates will tell you that experiencing grey skies for weeks on end is just depressing.
- Despite the snow, ice, and wind chill, we still find reasons to get out and be active!
Kevin Muncie/Flickr
- Playing out in the snow? Check.
Marion Magtoto/Flickr
- Finding snow where it typically doesn’t fall is another joy, even if it is short lived.
Katie Moore/Flickr
- I love seeing landscapes at dawn in the winter. The lighting is beautiful!
Deborah Lee Soltesz/Flickr Do I even need to tell you where this is?
- This view of Watson Lake near Prescott at sunrise looks amazing.
Michael Wilson/Flickr
- Even from above, winter in Arizona looks simply amazing.
Doc Searls/Flickr
- Icicles, yes, Arizona gets those as well!
lyn/Flickr
- Tired of the snow? Going to a snow-free, warmer place is just a couple hours away.
Kevin Dinkel/Flickr Winter in the southern part of the state means lots of festivals, races, and other outdoor events.
- One of my favorite scents comes only in winter in the desert, which is when the sweet acacia trees bloom with these puffy little flowers. The smell is sweet and overwhelming but a rare treat.
Robot Brainz/Flickr Another favorite scent most people don’t immediately associate with winter? Orange blossoms. I grew up near orange groves in the Phoenix area and just a whiff takes me back to my childhood. What’s your favorite?
- Yum, winter is also the time for warm drinks and socializing with family and friends.
Alexis Lamester/Flickr What is your favorite warm drink? Coffee, hot cider or hot chocolate?
- This time of year also means seeing twinkling lights everywhere: on houses, inside houses, in stores, etc.
Kevin Dooley/Flickr
- Sometimes we see these lights on landmarks and commercial areas, creating a magical walking experience.
Jerry Ferguson/Flickr Pictured above is the Mesa Mormon Temple, which features light displays. However, many other churches also do the same. You can also find such light displays at the Phoenix Zoo, on main streets, and plenty of other places.
- In some places, we also see luminarias in place of twinkle lights, especially along neighborhood streets.
CEBImagery/Flickr
- If you have the time and the roads are clear, take a drive through Rim Country to see a winter wonderland in person.
Alan Stark/Flickr
- Get out and enjoy that weather. Walk. Run. Play. Listen.
Matt Mets/Flickr
- Take a moment to enjoy those quiet moments out in the snow or the chill in the desert. You’ll want something to cherish once summer comes along.
L Geoffroy/Flickr
What are you looking forward to the most this winter? Let us know and share any memories you have of an Arizona winter in the comments section below!
Yukun Chen/Flickr
This photo was taken along the Arizona Trail near the Grand Canyon.
Simply_Happy/Flickr
Grand Canyon National Park/Flickr
Michael Wifall/Flickr
Anyone from notoriously cold climates will tell you that experiencing grey skies for weeks on end is just depressing.
Kevin Muncie/Flickr
Marion Magtoto/Flickr
Katie Moore/Flickr
Deborah Lee Soltesz/Flickr
Do I even need to tell you where this is?
Michael Wilson/Flickr
Doc Searls/Flickr
lyn/Flickr
Kevin Dinkel/Flickr
Winter in the southern part of the state means lots of festivals, races, and other outdoor events.
Robot Brainz/Flickr
Another favorite scent most people don’t immediately associate with winter? Orange blossoms. I grew up near orange groves in the Phoenix area and just a whiff takes me back to my childhood. What’s your favorite?
Alexis Lamester/Flickr
What is your favorite warm drink? Coffee, hot cider or hot chocolate?
Kevin Dooley/Flickr
Jerry Ferguson/Flickr
Pictured above is the Mesa Mormon Temple, which features light displays. However, many other churches also do the same. You can also find such light displays at the Phoenix Zoo, on main streets, and plenty of other places.
CEBImagery/Flickr
Alan Stark/Flickr
Matt Mets/Flickr
L Geoffroy/Flickr
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