If you’re still not sure where to go in the winter, consider heading there Arizona. This state offers the best of both worlds. While the southern and northern parts have plenty of sunshine and warm weather, northern and eastern Arizona have some fantastic places to enjoy a little winter fun.
To help you choose the perfect winter holiday destination, we’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in Arizona this season. Whether you want to soak up the sun or spend a few days on snow-capped mountains, we are sure you will find the place you have been looking for.
Sonoran Desert
Winter in the Sonoran Desert provides an ideal opportunity for visitors and hiking enthusiasts to explore the unique landscape under the most favorable conditions. With mild temperatures and clear skies, the desert’s typically harsh environment becomes welcoming, revealing its subtle beauty and diverse ecosystem.
The winter season also brings a sense of tranquility and a chance to experience the quiet majesty of the desert without the extreme heat and crowds of the high season.
Cotton wood
Are you someone who prefers to stay somewhere smaller and cozier? Cotton wood is a charming town between Jerome and Sedona and is the perfect getaway for a day or two.
Start your journey in the Old Town, which is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. It is known for its wineries and there are also several tasting rooms where you can enjoy regional wine. Then you can head straight to Sedona and spend some time outdoors.
The wave
Winter visits to The Wave, a mesmerizing sandstone rock formation in Arizona’s Coyote Buttes, offer a distinctive and striking experience. Known for its undulating shapes and vibrant color palette, this geological wonder presents a different kind of beauty in the winter months.
phoenix
Visiting Phoenix is always a good idea, and winter is no exception. There are a ton of things to do, including both urban and outdoor adventures. Plus, daytime temperatures don’t usually drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, so what’s not to like?
Explore the beautiful museums and vibrant nightlife, or spoil your taste buds at Pizzeria Bianco, the famous pizzeria from the Chef’s Table Netflix series. To burn off the calories, take a hike to Dobbins Lookout, Papago Park and many more fantastic trails.
Sedona
Pine forests and red rock plateaus, yes Sedona. And with an average temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit, winter is a fantastic season to see all the natural beauty.
For an easy hike, head to Birthing Cave, Devil’s Bridge, or Bell Rock. For more demanding hikers there is Soldier Pass or Bear Mountain.
There are also plenty of things to do in downtown Sedona. From visiting quirky art galleries and crystal shops to visiting craft breweries, you certainly won’t be bored.
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is less than an hour’s drive from Flagstaff and is simply a must see when in Arizona. The winter months bring less tourism, so it’s the right time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. Plus, you’ll get a unique chance to glimpse the iconic red walls covered in snow, and you’ll take even more beautiful photos of the gorge.
There are two parts of the park, the North and South edges, but only the latter is open in winter. For the best view of the Grand Canyon, you can take a helicopter tour. Alternatively, you can hike the South Kaibab Trail or the Bright Angel Trail. Just don’t forget to wear good walking shoes.
Petrified Forest National Park
It may not offer as dramatic landscapes as the Grand Canyon or Sedona, but this national park is still worth a stop if you’re in northeastern Arizona.
Hike the Blue Mesa trail, take the Crystal Forest trail to look for fossils, or head to Newspaper Rock for petroglyphs that are more than 2,000 years old. Plus, there’s a good chance you’ll pass the famous Route 66 on your way to the park.
Mount Lemmon Ski Valley
Did you know that you can also ski in southern Arizona? Located just about an hour and a half drive from Tucson, Mount Lemmon Ski Valley is a popular destination for winter sports, not only among locals.
It’s not the biggest resort around, but it still offers 22 slopes and old-fashioned double chairlifts. Its gentle terrain makes it perfect for beginners and families with children.
Don’t be discouraged if you can’t find ski passes on their website as they can only be purchased on site. And don’t worry, they’re cheap.
Boynton Canyon
Visit Boynton Canyon during the winter offers a unique and serene experience, such as the majestic red rock formations of this iconic Arizona landmark. This season the gorge turns into an oasis of peace, far from the hustle and bustle of the warmer months.
Flagstaff
If you’re looking for skiing and snowboarding, Flagstaff is the best option. The main resort in the area is Arizona snow bowl. It offers more than 300 hectares of ski terrain, 55 slopes and 8 lifts. The routes are suitable for both beginners and advanced users. And if you can’t ski at all, you can rent the equipment and take a few lessons.
Visit Arizona Nordic Village for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are 40 kilometers of groomed trails and yurts where you can spend the night. On the other hand, Flagstaff Snowpark is a great place to try snow tubing.
