We are finally just weeks away from the season opener for skiing here in Flagstaff, and we could not be more excited. While Flagstaff may be best known as a college town (it’s home to Northern Arizona University), many Arizona residents know it is also the top destination for all winter sports. Of course, when you head up to Flagstaff, you will want to know all there is about finding the best powder for your skiing adventure. Here is where you can find the best powder during Flagstaff ski season and other important details:
Arizona Snowbowl
When it comes to finding the best spot in Flagstaff for skiing there is only one destination you need: Arizona Snowbowl. This is Flagstaff’s only ski mountain here in the area and is well worth the effort to make it here. Arizona Snowbowl is located just north of Flagstaff and is easy to get to by just taking the US 180 out of the city. The drive is short, and you will find it easy to find the turn-off point to the mountain. At the base of the mountain you will find it to be an additional few miles up to reach the lifts. Arizona Snowbowl is an incredible space with elevation ranges from 9,200 to 11,500 feet. This allows the slopes over the resort to feature variety so everyone in the family can have a little fun.
Slopes to Run
Another aspect to consider when planning for your skiing experience is the volume of traffic on the slopes that day. Arizona Snowbowl has a variety of slopes to choose from, including beginner bunny hills, intermediate blue hills, and the black diamonds that are ideal for experienced skiers. Depending on the time of day or time of year you visit you may find that some slopes are more popular than others. A great way to find the best powder is by sticking to slopes that currently have less skiers on it. This may be difficult to gauge by eyesight alone so simply ask someone at Arizona Snowbowl to get a better idea!
Best Time to Ski
Of course, there is always a best time to ski during the year that will provide the best powder for the slopes. Arizona Snowbowl will see consistent snowfall over the winter season bringing in fresh powder each month. The best time of year to visit Arizona Snowbowl for the best powder is over the months of January, February, and early March. These months provide the most snowfall and allow the mountain to feature the most authentic winter experience. The high elevation of Flagstaff and Arizona Snowbowl is what brings the colder temps and additional snowfall to the area. However, Flagstaff is still in Arizona and heats up over the summer more than other traditional ski resorts.
To make up for the higher temps over the year that may impact season opening and closing dates, Arizona Snowbowl will create their own snow for the slopes. This allows the resort to control when the slopes are open just in case snowfall does not start as early as it can. Fortunately, the 2024 season is already off to a great start and is open as of November 9th! That’s right, you can already hit the slopes over at Snowbowl for some late fall fun. Not many ski resorts can say they open this early on with enjoyable powder covering the slopes.
Be Prepared for The Slopes
Having fresh and great powder is ideal for any skiing story but you will also want to make sure you are prepared as well. If you show up in incorrect or damaged gear the fresh powder may not make a difference for you. Instead, check out the rental shop located on Arizona Snowbowl to get the gear you need for another successful experience. Their gear shop is found at the resort where you can purchase your ski lift ticket. The shop will assist you in finding the correct size for the gear. You can reserve everything for the day making it a quick and easy check in check out process during your visit. You can also browse purchasable gear as well with brand new equipment from the top brands. Make sure you are fitted with the proper gear to make your ski trips one to remember.
Get Ready for Your Ski Journey to Flagstaff
That’s right, the ski season is already in full swing up here in Flagstaff. You can plan ahead for your winter journey by reserving one of our vacation rentals here in the area. Expect to find comfortable homes with luxury features. Many of our properties can also be found close by Arizona Snowbowl making the slopes easier to get to than ever.
