Believe it or not, Arizona isn’t all desert heat—when winter arrives, snow blankets mountains, pines, and high-elevation towns across the state. From snowy slopes and scenic drives to festive holiday events, there’s plenty to enjoy in the cooler months. Explore these winter destinations to see where snow settles, and discover the seasonal activities that make each spot a perfect winter escape.
Sedona
Winter in Sedona brings cool days, soft sunlight, and the occasional snowfall that briefly brightens the red rocks. Snow rarely lingers in town, but higher elevations near Oak Creek Canyon and the Mogollon Rim often keep their dusting longer. Even without steady snow, the season feels calm and relaxed, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives and time outdoors.
Winter Activities in Sedona
Verde Canyon Railroad – Magical Christmas Journey
Dates: Now – Dec. 24, 2025
Location: 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ
During winter, the Verde Canyon Railroad becomes a festive escape just 30 minutes from Sedona. On select dates through Christmas Eve, the “Magical Christmas Journey” carries passengers on a storybook ride to the North Pole, complete with holiday decorations, cheerful characters, and a visit from Santa. The train winds past snow-dusted cliffs and quiet desert landscapes, offering plenty of time for photos and soaking in the seasonal charm. The crisp winter air makes the open-air cars especially pleasant, turning the ride into a relaxed, holiday-themed adventure.
Sedona International Film Festival
Dates: Feb. 21, 2025
Location: 2030 W. State Route 89A, Suite B-2, Sedona, AZ
The International Film Festival marks the end of winter with a week of storytelling, drawing filmmakers and movie fans from near and far. Screenings showcase independent films, documentaries, and standout features that bring a creative buzz to town.
West Fork Trail
Location: W Fork Trail, Sedona, AZ
West Fork Trail shifts into a quieter, cooler experience in the winter months. Icicles collect along the canyon walls, and the creek moves steadily beneath pockets of frost, giving the area a more subdued feel than in warmer seasons. The trail’s level is easy, making it a crisp, scenic walk without any steep climbs.
Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Location: 336 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ
Sedona’s artistic side really shines during the holidays. Tlaquepaque glows with seasonal décor, luminaries, and festive events that turn the outdoor walkways into a charming holiday stroll. The galleries, boutiques, and small cafés feel especially inviting this time of year, making it easy to spend hours wandering, browsing, and taking in the atmosphere.
Flagstaff
Flagstaff is Arizona’s snow capital, with about 100 inches of snow each year and chilly nights that often dip below freezing. Snow settles on the tall pines and rooftops, while the San Francisco Peaks draw visitors for winter adventures. Even on milder days, the crisp air reminds you that this is a place that truly lives through all four seasons.
Winter Activities in Flagstaff
Location: 9300 N Snow Bowl Rd, Flagstaff, AZ
Arizona Snowbowl is Flagstaff’s centerpiece during winter. Skiers and snowboarders fill the mountain, and the mix of beginner-friendly slopes and advanced runs makes it accessible for every type of visitor. Gondola rides offer wide views of the surrounding peaks, and the ski lodge atmosphere adds a comforting warmth after hours spent outside.
Flagstaff Snow Park
Location: 2446 Ft Tuthill Lp, Flagstaff, AZ
Flagstaff Snow Park is a favorite for families, with tubing lanes and gentle hills that keep snow play going all day. Fire pits and seating areas give parents a chance to unwind while kids race down the slopes, and the park’s focus on easygoing outdoor fun makes it a hit for visitors of all ages.
Snowflake Festival
Dates: Dec. 6, 2025
Location: 1 E Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ
The North Pole Experience is a must for families with kids, offering a fully immersive holiday adventure. Children explore Santa’s workshop, join in storytelling, and meet his playful team of elves, making it a magical outing for the whole family.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Dates: Dec. 7, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026
Location: 1 E. Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ
Select weekends offer horse-drawn carriage rides, which move slowly through the downtown streets under string lights and holiday displays. It’s a nostalgic experience that fits perfectly with the town’s winter charm.
Holiday Parade of Lights
Dates: Dec. 13, 2025
Location: 101 W. Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ
Later in the month, the Holiday Parade of Lights fills the streets with twinkling floats, music, and festive cheer. Visitors line downtown to watch the procession and enjoy the illuminated spectacle, while local shops and restaurants add to the seasonal buzz with extended hours and cheerful decorations.
12 Bars of Christmas Crawl
Dates: Dec. 13, 2025
Location: 114 N. Leroux St, Flagstaff, AZ
For those looking for a more social night out, the 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl turns the downtown district into a lively seasonal celebration. Each participating venue adds its own twist to the night, creating a memorable way to enjoy Flagstaff’s bar and restaurant scene.
Great Pinecone Drop
Dates: December 31, 2025
Location: 1 E Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ
Ring in the New Year at the Great Pinecone Drop, where a giant glowing pinecone lowers above the historic Weatherford Hotel. Crowds cheer, music plays, and the countdown brings the whole town together for a lively celebration.
Extreme Arizona Adventures
One of our local partners, Extreme Arizona, offers ATV and SXS rentals for a winter thrill. Their guided and self-guided tours take you through rugged mountain landscapes, mixing adrenaline-pumping fun with stunning scenery for an adventurous day you won’t forget.
Pinetop
When winter hits Pinetop, snow blankets the pine forests and rooftops, turning the White Mountains into a chilly retreat. Daytime highs sit in the 40s, but the high elevation makes it feel colder. Storms can arrive fast, and plow crews keep roads clear, so warm layers and sturdy shoes are a must.
Winter Activities in Pinetop
Dates: Anticipated Opening – Dec.12, 2025
Location: 200 Highway 273, Greer, AZ
Just 40 minutes from Pinetop, Sunrise Park Resort anchors the region’s winter season. With terrain for both beginners and seasoned skiers, the mountain welcomes all skill levels. Lessons, rentals, and a variety of runs make it easy to spend the day outside, while wide views across the White Mountains add a sense of openness that sets Sunrise apart from other regional ski areas.
Sledding in Greer
Families often make their way to Greer, where open hills and quiet valleys create ideal sledding opportunities. After fresh snowfall, the landscape becomes a patchwork of smooth slopes that invite hours of play. The drive itself can feel like its own scenic experience as the snowy forest thickens with each mile.
Winter Scenic Drives
The White Mountains come alive in winter, and scenic drives highlight snow-dusted peaks and dense pine forests. Routes like Salt River Canyon Scenic Drive, Mogollon Rim Road, and the loop around Pinetop-Lakeside showcase rolling hills, quiet forests, and occasional wildlife, making for a peaceful winter outing.
Mt. Lemmon
Mt. Lemmon, located just outside Tucson, transforms the surrounding desert into a true winter landscape, often seeing up to 180 inches of snow each year. Chilly temperatures and sudden weather changes make layers essential. When the snow sticks, the mountain feels like a quiet alpine retreat far removed from the desert below.
Winter Activities in Mt. Lemmon
Location: 10300 Ski Run Rd, Mt. Lemmon, AZ
Ski Valley becomes the mountain’s main attraction once winter hits. The runs range from approachable to moderately challenging, and the lift rides offer panoramic views of snow-covered slopes that stretch toward Tucson’s desert floor. Visitors can rent equipment on the mountain and spend the entire day taking advantage of the cool temperatures and steady snowfall.
Sledding Spots
Winter storms also open up several sledding locations across the mountain. Areas near Inspiration Rock and the route toward Rose Canyon Lake become busy with families looking for simple, outdoor fun. After significant snowfall, the hills fill with visitors eager to take advantage of the fresh powder.
Location: 12856 N Sabino Canyon, Mt. Lemmon, AZ
At the top of the mountain, the small community of Summerhaven offers shops, treats, and warm indoor spaces that provide a break from the cold. The slower winter pace and cozy storefronts make it an inviting stop after time spent outdoors.
Scenic Drive Up the Mountain
Even if you’re not planning to ski or sled, the drive up Mt. Lemmon is an experience in itself. The landscape shifts dramatically—from desert saguaros to alpine forests—creating one of Arizona’s most striking seasonal transitions. Snow at the top adds a wintry touch to an already impressive route.
Williams
Winter in Williams brings chilly temperatures and frequent snow that settles across rooftops and pines. Along historic Route 66, the town takes on a timeless mountain charm, with streets that feel calmer and cozier. The snow highlights the classic architecture and natural beauty, giving the whole area a festive, small-town feel.
Winter Activities in Williams
Dates: Now – Dec. 30, 205
Location: 233 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ
One of Williams’ most anticipated events each winter is the Polar Express on the Grand Canyon Railway. Families board the train in pajamas, hold onto their “golden tickets,” and ride through the night as the story unfolds around them. The experience blends nostalgia with holiday magic and remains a beloved tradition for many.
Canyon Coaster Adventure Park
Location: 700 E Rte 66, Williams, AZ
Canyon Coaster Adventure Park keeps the winter energy high with tubing lanes, snow play areas, and a twisting mountain coaster that snakes down the hillside. It’s a lively spot for families, friends, or anyone looking for a mix of adrenaline and snowy fun.
Winter Hiking
The forests around Williams remain inviting in winter, with trails that wind through snow-dusted landscapes. The Sycamore Falls Trail, a half-mile loop to seasonal waterfalls, is a favorite when conditions allow. The quiet trails offer a perfect chance to soak in the peaceful winter scenery.
Payson
Winter in Payson brings cooler temperatures and the occasional snow, turning the forests and hills into a serene, wintry landscape. The crisp mountain air and soft snowfall create a distinctly seasonal atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
Winter Activities in Payson
Winter Wonderland & Electric Light Parade
Dates: Dec. 13, 2025
Location: 1000 W. Country Club Dr, Payson, AZ
Downtown Payson turns bright and colorful for the Winter Wonderland & Electric Light Parade. Floats, dancers, performers, and local groups bring charm to the streets, making it one of the town’s signature seasonal celebrations.
Genuine Ice Rink
Dates: Dec. 14, 2025 – Jan. 11, 2026
Location: 1000 W. Country Club Dr, Payson, AZ
The Genuine Ice Rink opens from mid-December through early January, offering a classic winter experience for visitors of all ages. Skaters circle the rink as music plays in the background, and the festive atmosphere makes it a popular gathering spot for families and couples.
Winter Hiking and Snow Play
Payson’s surrounding forests offer a quiet winter escape, with snow-dusted trails perfect for a crisp hike. When snow falls, the higher elevations near the Mogollon Rim, including areas around Woods Canyon Lake, provide ideal spots for sledding, snowshoeing, and building snowmen, making the season feel playful and full of adventure.
Prescott
Prescott embraces winter with crisp temperatures, occasional snowfall, and a historic downtown that feels especially warm and festive when decorated for the holidays. The town offers a cozy winter atmosphere, perfect for strolling the streets, enjoying seasonal events, and soaking in the charm of this mountain community.
Winter Activities in Prescott
Dates: Dec. 6, 2025
Location: 7501 Skoog Blvd, Prescott Valley, AZ
The Prescott Winter Spectacular launches the season with music, performances, and community gatherings that turn the downtown area into a festive starting point for the holidays. The historic buildings and glowing lights set the tone for the weeks ahead.
Courthouse Lighting
Dates: Dec. 6, 2025
Location: 117 W. Goodwin St, Prescott, AZ
The Christmas Parade winds through downtown Prescott with festive floats, marching bands, and the sounds of the season filling the streets. It’s a joyful celebration that captures the spirit of the holidays and highlights the town’s festive charm.
Acker Night
Dates: Dec. 12, 2025
Location: 120 S. Cortez St, Prescott, AZ
Acker Night blends music and community, filling stores, sidewalks, and plazas with performances from local artists. People move from shop to shop, enjoying live music, refreshments, and the shared excitement that defines the town’s December atmosphere.
Christmas Village & Christkindl Market
Dates: Dec. 14 – 15, 2025
Location: W. Goodwin St, Prescott, AZ
At the Christmas Village and Christkindl Market, handcrafted goods, seasonal treats, and festive décor come together in one central spot. Guests wander through vendor booths, sample traditional holiday snacks, and discover unique gifts that capture the warmth and spirit of the season.
Whiskey Row New Year’s Eve Boot Drop
Dates: Dec. 31, 2025
Location: 120 S Montezuma St, Prescott, AZ
On New Year’s Eve, Whiskey Row hosts the Boot Drop, featuring a giant illuminated boot that descends at midnight. The event blends small-town charm with lively energy, creating a memorable way to ring in the new year.
Winter Hikes
Forests, lakes, and rocky outcrops around Prescott stay inviting through the winter months. Hikes to Thumb Butte, the Granite Dells, and along the Peavine Trail offer panoramic views, peaceful winter landscapes, and crisp mountain air. Even shorter walks feel refreshing, while longer trails let you fully enjoy the quiet beauty of the season.
No matter which winter destination calls to you—mountains, small towns, or the desert—there’s a GoodNight Stay home ready to make your trip comfortable, cozy, and memorable. Take advantage of 15% off stays booked between December 18th, 2025 – January 3rd, 2026 with code HAPPYHOLIDAYS15, or explore our specials page for more seasonal offers. Wherever your winter adventures lead, start them with a stay that feels like home.
