Things to do / Travel Guide
Native Americans, “Old Bill” Williams, the Grand Canyon, the Wild Wild West, and the historic Route 66 all await the winter snowflakes, as do the many guests who frequent Northern Arizona every season. A state full of varied climates, the dry, arid desert is long forgotten in the high mountain peaks and valleys which support the area's two ski resorts, Elk Ridge and the Arizona Snowbowl, with ample snowfall and stunning views. What makes this area even more enjoyable a place to vacation, is the diverse range of lodging, historical attractions, and unique nightlife. From pure skiing, to pure nature, Northern Arizona is a great choice for your next winter vacation.
Skiing in and around the Kaibib National Forest
Located 8150 feet high in the Bill Williams Mountain Range, named for William “Old Bill” Williams, a famous mountain man and trapper in the area, is the modest but proud Elk Ridge Ski Area. Boasting gorgeous views of the Grand Canyon, and a small but knowledgeable staff, Elk Ridge is a sure place to find a grand time on the slopes.
This is pure skiing at its best. Snowboarders are certainly welcome, but skiers hailing back to the straight-ski ages will find their home here without having to wade through parabolic and twin-tipped skis. The twelve trails here, ranging from the newbie to advanced, will provide all skiers with their niche, however much of the 30 acres of terrain is geared towards the intermediate to advanced riding crowd with only one dedicated beginner's trail.
Guests on snowboards will not find a terrain park here; instead they will find groomed trails and some natural bumps to utilize. Chains and 4 wheel drive are required to get to this sweet spot on the southwest entrance to the Grand Canyon, but it's well worth the effort expended to get there.
Many cross-country options abound including the Grandview Nordic Center which has three main loops. The 1.1 mile Grandview Lookout trail runs along the southern rim of the Grand Canyon. The 7.5 Twin Lakes run offers stunning views of the lakes for which this trail is named. Tour the old logging roads on the Spring Valley Trail, or head into the underdeveloped parts of the forest such as Sevier Flat, Barney Flats, and the White Horse Lake areas. All offer backcountry skiing and meandering trails through ponderosa pines and tall juniper stalks for a relaxing winter jaunt.
The local city of Williams, also named after that famous mountain man, serves as the home base for visitors to the Grand Canyon area and guests of Elk Ridge. Over 1,512 rooms and ample dining make this town the logical choice for any post slope action.
Uniquely restoring old saloons and bordellos, have a saunter on over to the saucily named Red Garter Bed and Bakery which was first used in 1897 for racy shows. Despite its racy past, it now offers a warm bed and a continental breakfast from their long line of bakery options, fresh from the oven. If the Wild West captivates the imagination, pack up and visit the Wild West Junction and Drover's Hotel and spend the night in this authentic old-style cowboy and Indians themed hotel. There are also more than seven other B&Bs and an array of over thirty hotels and budget motels to choose from.
Of course, steakhouses and Mexican cuisine are standard fare here, but there are also diners playing up on the Route 66 theme, or the Williams Buffet which presents an interesting East meets West idea; blending Oriental and American standards in a buffet suited to fill any stomach. Top it all off with a cold brew at the Typhoon Saloon or sip a hot cappuccino at any of the artsy cafes that populate downtown Williams.
Skiing in and around Coconino National Forest
Not to be confused with the Californian city, the San Francisco Mountains located in the Coconino National Forest are home to two totally different skiing options. Perching on the northern rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona Snowbowl and the Flagstaff Nordic Center play houseguest, nestled in among the wilderness of the Kachina Peaks. There is a mystical meaning to the mountains themselves, sacred as they are to the Indian tribes who call this area home. The Hopi Native Americans believe the San Francisco mountains to be home to the Katsinas, or Kachinas, supernatural beings that, among other things, have power over the weather! As the highest point in Arizona, peaking out at 12,633 feet, it's no great the Hopi would believe this.
Arizona Snowbowl, renowned for its Hart's Prairie Beginner's Area, encompasses fifty acres, and is serviced by three chairlifts alone, making the Snowbowl a terrific place to learn and grow as the time goes by. Speed mavens will love zipping down the thirty-two runs, ranging in skill level from beginners slopes all the way up to challenging black diamonds. The Sunset Terrain Park welcomes and embraces those on one board and freestyle skiers looking for new heights. As it is only open from 9am to 4pm though, make sure to get there early to make the most of your time spent on the slopes.
Not interested in downhill skiing or snowboarding? Head to the Flagstaff Nordic Center for multiple cross-country and snowshoeing trails spread over 25 miles, while enjoying majestic views of the Grand Canyon and red hot sunsets which contrast with the cooler air being breathed in all season long. Guests wishing to rent or purchase equipment must let the center know before coming, and will be accommodated upon arrival. Shultz Trail, at 1.3km, has an even grade and benches along the way to rest your weary legs and catch your breath. Bear Jaw, on the other hand, is a 3.4km expert trail necessitating a strong uphill climb that is rewarded with an exhilarating run downhill.
The Mormon Lake trails surrounding Arizona's largest lake provide groomed cross country trails, as well as places to snowshoe and skijor. The Wing Mountain trails are located in the Peaks Ranger district, and offer 17 miles of un-groomed backcountry trails to play on, all of which are maintained by the national forest staff. You can stretch your legs out without having to deal with the crowded lift lines common to traditional ski areas.
When the sun sets, head into town and stay in one of the 4000 plus rooms available to the many tourists here to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the Grand Canyon. Some hotels and motels, such as the Hampton Inn in Flagstaff, offer ski and stay packages, so be sure to check with the reservations department in advance to take advantage of these money saving offers. Get back to nature in a rustic cabin, or pamper yourself in a spa resort such as L'Auberge in nearby Sedona, about 25 miles away. Forty restaurants and bars lend a wide and delicious spin on dining and après ski in Flagstaff. Try the Beaver Street Brewery, which specializes in local micro-brews and beers from all over the world, and pay a visit to the billiards hall across the street of the same name. Stroll down Main Street, and check out the cafes and bistros which serve anything from exotic goat cheese and sun-dried tomato pizzas to juicy burgers with all the toppings. Whatever your taste, you're sure to get it satisfied here.
“Get your kicks on Route 66” – Blues man Nat King Cole sang it right…Northern Arizona is full of memories and adventures waiting to happen. Where else can you visit the Wild Wild West, stay in a renovated bordello, and ski in one of the Seven Wonders of the World, all in one area? Welcome to Northern Arizona: winter is here and you should be too.
Ski Resorts in Grand Canyon, Sedona, Prescott and Northern Arizona
Skiing
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