Arizona, located in the southwestern United States, is renowned for its diverse landscapes and warm desert climate. The state is home to iconic natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Arizona’s geography includes deserts, mountain ranges, and forests, contributing to its varied climate. The state experiences hot summers. Does it snow in Arizona? Find everything you need to know about snowing in Arizona.
Does it Snow in Arizona?
Yes, it does snow in Arizona. While the desert parts are known for their warm climates, snow can accumulate in various regions. Heavy snow is expected in the central, northern, and southeastern Arizona mountains. Moderate snow can occur as far south as Nogales. The rims of the Grand Canyon also experience significant snowfall due to their high altitudes, with the South Rim receiving about 60 inches annually and the North Rim receiving around 144 inches. Snow in Arizona is thus a notable feature in higher elevations and certain southern areas.
When does it Snow in Arizona?
Snow in Arizona typically occurs from November through March, coinciding with the winter season. During this period, storm systems from the Pacific Ocean bring snow to various parts of the state. The mountainous regions of central, northern, and southeastern Arizona experience the heaviest snowfall. Even areas as far south as Nogales can see moderate snow due to below-freezing nighttime temperatures.
Where does it snow in Arizona?
In Arizona, places like Green Valley, Nogales, Sierra Vista, Tombstone, Tucson, Painted Desert National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, and Wickenburg receive less than 4 inches of snow annually. These locations experience minimal and infrequent snowfall, with averages ranging from 0.1 to 3.5 inches per year.
Here is the table with only the places where it snows in Arizona and the average annual snowfall is at least 4 inches:
| Region | Place | Average Annual Snowfall (Inches) | Average Annual Snowfall (Centimeters) | Days with Snowfall |
| Southern Arizona | Bisbee | 3.3 | 8.4 | 1.7 |
| Chiricahua National Monument | 3.7 | 9.4 | 1.8 | |
| Central Arizona | Jerome | 6.3 | 16.0 | 3.1 |
| Payson | 18.5 | 47.0 | 5.9 | |
| Prescott | 10.2 | 25.9 | 5.2 | |
| Show Low | 19.4 | 49.3 | 7.8 | |
| Northern Arizona | Canyon de Chelly | 4.9 | 12.4 | 3.8 |
| Flagstaff | 90.1 | 228.9 | 28.3 | |
| Grand Canyon Village | 43.0 | 109.2 | 17.0 | |
| Pipe Springs National Monument | 5.8 | 14.7 | 4.6 | |
| Williams | 65.1 | 165.4 | 17.5 |
Places to Visit to Enjoy Snow
Flagstaff
As Arizona’s snowiest city, Flagstaff offers a winter wonderland with numerous activities, such as skiing and snowboarding at the Arizona Snowbowl. The city’s high elevation ensures reliable snowfall, making it a prime destination for winter sports and cosy cabin stays. Typically, the last snowfall of the season occurs in April or May.
Grand Canyon Village
Located on the South Rim, Grand Canyon Village experiences significant snowfall, providing breathtaking winter views of the Grand Canyon. The snow-covered canyon landscape offers a unique and serene experience, ideal for photography and peaceful hikes. Between December and April, it turns into a beautiful winter wonderland.
Williams
This charming town near the Grand Canyon receives considerable snowfall and is perfect for a cosy winter getaway. Enjoy the scenic train rides on the Grand Canyon Railway, which become even more magical with a dusting of snow. During the cold season in Williams, the coldest month is December, with an average low temperature of 23 degrees.
Payson
Nestled in the Tonto National Forest, Payson is ideal for enjoying the serene beauty of snow-covered forests. The area offers ample snowfall for winter hikes and the tranquillity of a forested winter escape. In December, January, and February, Payson receives an average of five to six inches of snow per month.
Prescott
This historic city experiences light to moderate snowfall, adding a festive touch to its quaint downtown and historic sites. Prescott’s winter charm makes it a delightful place for holiday shopping, local events, and exploring its picturesque streets.
Show Low
Located in the White Mountains, Show Low offers plenty of snow and outdoor winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The town’s high elevation and scenic beauty make it an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy a snowy retreat.
Ski Resorts in Arizona
Arizona offers several ski resorts where visitors enjoy winter sports and snowy landscapes. Here are the details of the top ski resorts in the state:
Arizona Snowbowl
- Location: North of Flagstaff
- Elevation: 2,804 m – 3,505 m (9,199 ft – 11,500 ft)
- Slopes: 37 km (12 km easy, 14 km intermediate, 11 km difficult)
- Ski Lifts: 6
- Highlight: Arizona Snowbowl is the largest and highest ski resort in Arizona, offering diverse slopes and beautiful mountain views.
Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley
- Location: Near Tucson
- Elevation: 2,522 m – 2,750 m (8,274 ft – 9,022 ft)
- Slopes: 8.5 km (2.5 km easy, 4 km intermediate, 2 km difficult)
- Ski Lifts: 3
- Highlight: Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley is unique for its location in the southern part of the state, providing a winter sports option near Tucson.
Sunrise Park Resort
- Location: In the White Mountains
- Elevation: 2,853 m – 3,330 m (9,360 ft – 10,925 ft)
- Ski Lifts: 7
- Highlight: Sunrise Park Resort offers a variety of winter activities with several lifts and a range of slopes, making it a popular destination for snow enthusiasts.
Elk Ridge – Williams (temporarily closed)
- Location: Near Williams
- Elevation: 2,306 m – 2,452 m (7,566 ft – 8,045 ft)
- Slopes: 3 km (0.6 km easy, 1.5 km intermediate, 0.9 km difficult)
- Ski Lifts: 2
- Highlight: Although closed, Elk Ridge near Williams provides smaller-scale skiing and snowboarding options in a family-friendly setting.
These Arizona ski resorts offer a variety of slopes and elevations, catering to different skill levels and providing beautiful winter experiences in a state known for its diverse climates.
Why does it Snow in Arizona?
Elevation
Higher elevations in Arizona, such as the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff, the White Mountains, and the rims of the Grand Canyon, reach altitudes where temperatures are significantly lower than in the desert regions. These high altitudes create conditions conducive to snow during the winter months.
Weather Systems
From November through March, storm systems originating from the Pacific Ocean move eastward and cross Arizona. These systems bring moisture, and when they encounter higher elevations, the drop in temperature leads to precipitation falling as snow.
Mountain Ranges
The mountainous regions in central, northern, and southeastern Arizona act as barriers that force moist air to rise. As the air ascends, it cools and condenses, leading to snowfall.
Seasonal Temperature Variations
Even in southern parts of Arizona, where it is typically warmer, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing during the winter. This can result in light snowfall in areas like Tucson and Nogales, although it is much less common and usually very light. These combined factors are elevation, weather systems, mountain ranges, and seasonal temperature.
