Every season in Flagstaff has something different to offer.
- Winter
In the winter the San Francisco Peaks have great skiing and sledding at Arizona Snowbowl. The resort offers skiing and snowboarding for all levels. Opening and closing dates and hours are according to snowfall, which varies tremendously from year to year. Some years the resort can stay open from Thanksgiving through March, while other years the resort may only be open for few days. Snow Bowl is located just seven miles North East of Flagstaff on Highway 180.
- Spring
If visiting Flagstaff during early spring Grand Falls is a must see. Located only 30 miles out of town, Grand Falls offers breathtaking views. Massive quantities of chocolate colored water flows through the falls as water drags sediments through rabbits and over rocks turning the water a dark reddish color matching the surroundings. The sight is a seasonal view, as the part of the Little Colorado River, which runs through the falls, only runs late winter and early spring and in dry years it might not run at all. For surefooted visitors the hike to the bottom of the falls is short and easy and has a great view. For the more adrenaline seeking, a bit of rock climbing will get you to the falls themselves. To get to Grand Falls drive 13 miles on Leupp Road, take a left onto Reservation Road #70. The drive to Grand Falls is a little rough and it is not recommended for low clearance vehicles since the last part of Road #70 is a non-maintained dirt road.
- Summer
Summer transforms Flagstaff into a culture melting pot when tourists and locals gather downtown. Cafes, restaurants and bars drag chairs and tables out on the sidewalks while street musicians entertain tourists on Heritage Square in the center of Historic Downtown Flagstaff.
At Arizona Snowbowl, one of the chairlifts is converted into the Scenic Skyride, which takes you 11,500 feet up the mountain to incredible views of Flagstaff and surroundings. Bring warm clothing as temperature drops considerable on the way to the top.
Year round Flagstaff and surroundings have great hiking locations for all levels of hikers.
On the east side of town many trail heads line the main roads where ruins of Native American villages can be found after just short hikes into the hills. When entering the remains of the villages it is important to be respectful and not take anything with you when you leave. Great superstition surrounds these areas and it is not only disrespectful to gather relics as souvenirs, it is also illegal and considered very bad luck.
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