Williams Ski Area Ski Resort - Arizona

Address:Williams, Arizona
Tel: (928) 635-9330

At the southwestern entrance to the Grand Canyon, in the Kaibab National Forest, lies a small friendly winter recreation area known as Elk Ridge Ski. This modest ski area may only have 12 slopes to take advantage of, but with its summit at 8,150 feet, and offering stunning views of the Grand Canyon and surrounding mountains, the lack of trails can be forgiven. Elk Ridge is a throwback to the olden days of pure skiing and today snowboarders are in the minority on the slopes and don't even have a terrain park available. Purists will be happy to experience what Elk Ridge has to offer.

Chains and 4WD are required during heavy storms, but the extra effort required to get to this area is well worth it. The 30 acres of terrain here is granted 150 plus inches of annual snowfall, providing ample snow to shred. The slopes, serviced by 2 chairlifts, cater to all levels but are more conducive to intermediate and advanced riders with 6 intermediate and 5 black diamond graded slopes available as opposed to just one beginner rated area. Snowboarders are, of course, welcome on all trails, but if they're looking for jumps and jibs may get bored fairly quickly. This mountains' for those who crave pure riding.

Elk Ridge has a small but professional ski school that offers private or group lessons twice a day, and even helps Scouts with earning their merit badges!

Children under the age of 4 years old ski or ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. Even the regular prices for adults of 12 years and up is a bargain compared to other ski resorts in the Grand Canyon area. There is a choice of full or half day (from 1:30pm) lift tickets, and beginner packages, which include the lift ticket, lesson and rental, are available from the ticket sales counter. There are limited rentals available onsite.

Elk Ridge has a small but outrageously fun snowtubing park to occupy both the young and young at heart. There is also the more relaxed day lodge with a stocked bar, kitchen, and dining area for those who prefer to rest and relax when off the alpine slopes.

Over 1,512 motel or hotel rooms exist in Williams, Arizona, a town known for its boast of being over 30 miles from the nearest traffic light! While this seems very remote, the incredibly diverse selection of eateries from coffee shops, fast food, and fine dining to international and specialty selections, will banish any hunger pains. There are also plenty of other activities in the area, especially out in nature, thanks to Elk Ridge's proximity to the Grand Canyon. Sign up for any or all of the various photography, nature, and sightseeing tours available, the details of which can be found at the tourist information center, or check out the galleries located within the city limits.

With pure nature and pure skiing, Elk Ridge with its unsurpassed scenic views and dedication to winter recreation should be the next stop on any tourist's winter itinerary.

Elk Ridge Ski Area is a family oriented ski, snowboard and tubing recreation area. Nestled at the southwestern entrance to the Grand Canyon, Elk Ridge offers spectacular views. From Elk Ridge, you are minutes away from the city of Williams, Arizona.