Four Arizona Ski Vacation Destinations

It may not be well known throughout most of the United States, but Arizona is more than just saguaro cactus and dust devils. Regions of Arizona are covered in ponderosa pine trees and are prime vacation destinations of Phoenicians looking to escape the desert. All four ski resorts are just a few hours from Phoenix.

The most popular location is The Arizona Snowbowl which is located about 10 miles north of Flagstaff. This park offers four lifts and 32 trails for both skiers and snowboarders. You can practice your freestyle talents at their Sunset Terrain Park which has obstacles. The resort has lodging and cabins available, but many visitors choose to get a private rental cabin or hotel in Flagstaff. You can easily find a private rental cabin to fit any size party that provides all of the comforts of home.

The biggest ski resort in Arizona is The Sunrise Park Resort located in the White Mountains near the town of McNary. The resort is owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe. The Sunrise Park Resort is approximately a four hour drive from Phoenix. They offer eight lifts and sixty-five runs the base elevation is 9,200 feet and extends up to 11,000 feet. They have a separate snowboarding area and cross country trails, plus a Terrain Park which includes a half-pipe, and metal rails. The lodge has about 100 rooms and is located next to Sunrise Lake. Many visitors choose to get private rental cabins in nearby Greer, and Pinetop-Lakeside. There are many great luxury resorts and cabins available to accommodate any size group.

The Elk Ridge Ski Area is located in Williams which is about thirty miles west of Flagstaff. They have two lifts and seven trails. You can find many private cabins and hotels in Williams. Williams is the gateway to the Grand Canyon and the Grand Canyon Railway is stationed here. During the winter months you can take the kids on the very popular Polar Express train ride. If you plan on staying and the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel or taking a trip on the train be sure to book in advance as they get very busy during the holiday season.

Mount Lemmon Ski Valley is located near Tucson that has three lifts and eighteen trails. There is no cross country skiing here as the park is only 80 skiable acres. You can lodge in one of Tucson many resorts, hotels, or private vacation homes.



No matter which destination you pick for your next ski vacation you are sure to find great dining and comfortable lodging nearby. If you plan on renting a cabin be sure to book in advance as most cabins are booked out during the winter holidays.



To search AZ Cabins visit AZRentalCabins.com.