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Arizona Snowbowl
Category: Hotels & Travel Ski Resorts Ski Resorts [Edit]
PO Box 409300 N Snowbowl Rd
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
(928) 779-1951
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 10 am - 4 pm
25 reviews for Arizona Snowbowl
25 reviews in English
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Review from Alaskafiregirl F.
Flagstaff, AZ
4/2/2012
I love, love, love, LOVE me some Snowbowl! It's my favorite happy place in Flagpole and I've never had a bad day on the slopes here. Everything flows at just the right vibe to reassure your faith in humanity. Yep, that even includes our belatedly quirky SPORES (Silly Phoenicians on Rental Equipment), who can at times test the local patience levels but in the end mean well. It's all good--everyone is welcome here and you're guaranteed to have a good time. There's a karmatic/kismet vortex of happiness and love that makes your soul sing at the top of Snowbowl Road. Doesn't matter what walk of life you may follow, how good a skier or snowboarder you may or may not be, what troubles ail you at the moment... at the end of a Snowbowl day, you'll be smiling bigger and laughing more.
Happy time starts at oh-dark-thirty hours of the early morning with a call to the Snowbowl hotline to check on conditions. There are only a handful of men in this world that can inspire me to crack the sheets before dawn, but "Snowbowl Daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaave" and his AM snow report make the list. Stock up on a stash of Uncle Buzz's chocolate espresso beans to get rocking early in the day and you're good to go. Later on the therapeutic pours from Michael and Chris in the Aggasiz Lodge between my regular and somewhat epic garage-sale wipeouts dull the pain of "that's gonna leave a mark tomorrow" moments. (My ski enthusiasm? Beyond words. My ski technique? Ugly, my friends--very very ugly). Thankfully the awesome professionals with the Snowbowl Ski Patrol offer some of the best care anywhere in the nation when things get bumped, bruised, broken or otherwise ballyhooed, so there's no worry about just getting up there in the clear mountain air and trying something new.
Salut to another fun season this year, guys. Can't wait to go Snowbowling again next year! -
Review from Beth B.
11/25/2011
Who knew there was skiing in Arizona? We were planning a trip to Sedona for Spring Break and I found this gem outside of Flagstaff. We are a family of 4 with 2 teenagers and are intermediate skiers - maybe black if there are no moguls and it's not a sheer cliff. We are not early risers either, so we skiied a couple of afternoons. It was perfect.
Since we were there in mid-March, there was not any powder, but it wasn't icy either. It was not very crowded - I think NAU was on Spring Break also - and lift lines were not bad. On the second day, we discovered that the lift that breaks halfway for intermediate skiiers and then ascends to black trails had 2 runs that were really more upper intermediate. That gave us a great, long run to go down.
We also got a tip from the Ski Haus where we rented our skis for a park and ski area above the first parking lots. That was very helpful in the evening when we were packing up to avoid the crowds.
We brought our lunch one day and ate in the lodge the second day. It's not too pricey (for a ski resort) and there is a great outdoor area where you can have a drink and watch everyone come down the mountain.
This is a small family resort. All the runs come down to the same area - very helpful when you are trying to corral family members. If you are looking for a Colorado mega-resort experience, you will be disappointed. If you just want to get some skiing in while visiting Arizona - this is the place to go! -
Review from Erin A.
3/7/2011 7 photos
Located in the cute and quirky town of Flagstaff, Snowbowl is a great escape for those of you residing in the Phoenix area!
Lift tickets and rentals will be around ~$80 which is half the price in California. Its super fun -- make sure to go when the snow is at its best!
Tip: Come bright and early if you're renting equipment. Got your own equipment? Get tickets and hit the slopes before hand! And don't lose your rental board, they'll charge you $200! Other than that, its a cute little get away!Listed in: Arizona Adventures
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Review from Jeremy L.
Phoenix, AZ
1/21/2012
Awesome place to bring family or friends that aren't too confident on the snow. Great views and reasonably priced. Easy drive from the Valley and a great addition to a Canyon trip.
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Review from Alex R.
San Jose, CA
5/19/2011
Snowbowl is every Arizona resident's winter weekend getaway. And when I say every Arizona resident I mean just that. Don't expect to get more than 4 or 5 runs in at this place after a good snowdrop since everyone and their 89 year old grandmother decides it's a good time to hit the slopes. And the place only has a couple good skill level runs, so expect to be on one or two of the same lifts all day. And that means expect everyone who isn't a beginner in line for those same lifts with you. Talk about a buzzkill...go blazing down in 1 minute and get into a big ass line for 45 minutes while you freeze your knickers off.
Did I mention they have big lines?
Oh and make sure to have a 4WD or chains during or after heavy storms. No one likes to drive behind someone who is stuck all the time, slipping and sliding all over the place or gets caught in every snowdrift.
PS The bowl is a hike, but is quite nice. Be sure to inquire about the bowl if it's open. -
Review from Lorena L.
Mesa, AZ
9/16/2010
It's a little pricey to ride the lift up and down during the summer. And unfortunately we didn't notice the 25% off tickets on their site beforehand. Doh!
But what a beautiful and relaxing ride. I'm a little afraid of heights, but the trek up the mountain was nice and slow (we slowed down or stopped quite a bit on the way back when it was busier, to accommodate families). It can get a little chilly on the way down so don't forget a sweater.
Come early because the crowds pick up quickly. And take a pic in front of the highest bathroom in Arizona! A must stop when you are in Flag.Listed in: Places to Visit in AZ
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Review from Andy G.
Scottsdale, AZ
2/28/2011
Arizona Snowbowl gets a 5-star rating for being the best place I've found to go ride in Arizona. The 3-star is in comparison to every other place I've been to snowboard. Snowbowl says they have 5 lifts but they have 4 and one is a stupid carpet. There is SO much space to expand and they could have some awesome lifts to higher points in the area.
The place is awesome after a snowstorm (my last two outings) and it's totally worth it to wait out an I-17 closure to get there but if it hasn't snowed in weeks then it's icy, rough and not the best ride you will have. -
Review from Xuankieu T.
Phoenix, AZ
1/22/2011
Being in Arizona, SnowBowl is the best you can get within 2.5-3 hours.
Actually, I think it's a very good slope for beginners because they have a very good bunny slope for beginners. The area for beginners is very huge and widespread out and the slope is not very steep, therefore you can take your time learning and falling down without having to get back up on the lift again. The place is also not crowded with people so you don't have to worry about running into people. Only drawback though I feel the lift go very very slow. It feel like you can get 20min of sleep sitting on the lift, and only to go back down in less than 10 minutes.
As for the slope being for the intermediate and experts, it is kind of boring because the slope just go straight down and there is not much curving trails that I like. But it's a good place to practice on your toes-and-heel.
They got a good cafeteria with grilled food like pizza, hot dog, and hamburger at cut-throat price, but ofcourse that's expect when you buy food at any slopes. They also have a bar that serve alcohol and beer.
The employees there are also very friendly and talkative to you. -
Review from Greg M.
Scottsdale, AZ
9/7/2010
First a confession: I do not ski. I only went here during the summer to enjoy the ride and the views from atop the property.
What wonderful view it is! Over 11,000 feet ASL, probably almost 4,000 above Flagstaff (which you cannot see from here), half of which I think you climb on the road leading off Hwy 180. I would hate to make that trip in the winter! Always download the discount coupon online before going here.
The Basics: pay your fee and get a ticket in the building, then present it at the lift (the huge black 4 legged machine) to ride the chair to the top. If you are alone you need to sit in the middle. If you have never been on a lift before tell them before you step up to board and before you exit at the end. The chairs move about 2mph, so you have plenty of time. Basically, it comes up behind you, sit down, and pull the overhead bar down and put you feet on the rests. Make sure nothing falls out of your pockets or hands, then enjoy the aprox 25 min ride to the top. The speed varies or even stops on occasion, as they change it to help smaller or older people board or exit at either end.
The ride is slow, the seats bounce and rattle a little, there is also some shuddering that seems to get worse near the ends of the ride. Your feet average about 45 feet above the ground. Your head is about 6-8 feet below the cable. Once you start, there is no stopping or getting off. Even if it starts to rain, snow, or blow, once it starts, that's it! Dress accordingly. There is no bathroom at the top only gravel walkways and some paths that go higher. There are stiff penalties for wandering off the marked path. The air is very thin, beware if you have COPD, asthma, heart disease, or are out of shape... the air is very thin at the top! This ride would be a no-no for wheelchair or walker dependent people. It would also be a bad place to bring a dog.
The view is wonderful, the visibility is about 80 miles. Basically everything from Mingus Mountain to the north face of the Grand Canyon. The view is essentially South-West to North-West.
Clouds form up there often, so earlier in the day is better. During monsoon season go when they open at 10am and you might get sunshine on the top.
I saw a frisbee golf course below the ride. I think hiking down from the top is not allowed, and also looks like it could be dangerous. The hillsides are very rocky and steep. Parking is free on two gravel lots. And the road leading here is steep and not at all straight. There are several places to pull off the road to enjoy scenic views.
Please don't stop to look at the deer. If you want to see deer just go to any town in northern Indiana, they roam the city streets like sacred cows in Calcutta.
Note: my GPS, a Garmin Nuvi gave me very wrong instructions on how to get here. It was off by over 12 miles! Follow the signs, not your GPS. It's on Hwy 180, north of Flagstaff. Watch for the signs. Easy to get to.
Update: you can see the western 1/4 of Flagstaff if you hike up to the flat area above the top of the lift ride. In fact you can see mountains that are near Black Canyon City from up there if the haze is not too bad. Also, on this trip the frisbee golf course was gone and the roadway was under construction. Still very well worth the ride. Always bring a sweatshirt and sunscreen. Best to go right when they open to avoid afternoon monsoon rain and clouds which can suddenly plummet the temps. -
Review from Geoff L.
Scottsdale, AZ
10/14/2010
It's getting too crowded at this ski resort now:(
When I first started learning snowboarding a few years ago, I enjoyed this resort cause it had very friendly and wide greens. But after going a few more times, way too crowded! They really need to upgrade their chairs for higher speeds, especially for the ones going up to the black trails. Takes forever to get up there. I think it's tough for new people too, as it is so crowded in the green area, it is very easy to crash into folks. Definitely not a confidence booster when you are first learning to snowboard or ski!!
Location is great as it is only about 2 and half hours away from Phoenix (depending on which part you live in), however, if you want to go for multiple runs I would recommend going to Sunrise resort in White Mountains. More trails, faster lifts, wider trails. -
Review from Sarah H.
2/1/2009
Just a tip for those who do not participate in sports viewing activities
I went to Snowbowl, on SuperBowl Sunday, and everything was half off because of it!
Hooray!
1/2 price lift ticket
1/2 price equipment rental
SCORE!
or do they say GOAL!
Whatever
Just a nice money-saving tip for SuperBowl Sunday next year! -
Review from Marcus D.
Portland, OR
1/27/2009
I was REALLY IMPRESSED with Arizona Snowbowl! I learned to ski in Lake Tahoe and have spent some time in Colorado, so I am used to bigger mountains and more variety. But...HEY!....we're in Arizona! I'm shocked that you can even ski AT ALL in Arizona.
So, take that for what it's worth. The resort is only 2-1/2 hours drive from Phoenix. The mountain has 4 lift chairs, but only 2 that go to intermediate level runs or higher. But, there is some nice variety. While the black diamond runs are on the easy side, there were some steep options and some moguls, for those of you that like punishing yourself.
All in all, I was pleasantly surprised. Sure, it's no Colorado, but it's also possible to get up in the morning, drive up, ski, and be home for dinner. On Sunday, we skied until a little after 3:00 PM, and were pulling into the driveway by 6:00 PM.
Another benefit of AZ Snowbowl is that it is MUCH cheaper than it's brethren in CO and CA. It's a great option for dusting off your "ski legs" at the beginning of the season. We will definitely be back. While not as expansive as in our neighboring states, it's just a short drive away if you're jonesing for a day of skiing. -
Review from Ellen S.
San Francisco, CA
3/9/2009
I've been to Snowbowl many times over the years, and I'm just not a fan. If you're not a beginner, you will easily become bored since there are only 4 lifts, broken out - 2 beginner, 1 intermediate and 1 more advanced (you can get off half-way on this one if you don't want to go down a black).
Likes - Short lift lines, rentals are an easy process and the drive is short from Flagstaff (about 8 miles).
Dislikes - Small mountain, ticket prices are high for the size of the mountain ($49 for 08-09 season), low snow levels and if they haven't received snow in about 5 days it is pure ice and slush.
I do have to give major kudos to the ski patrol, who are extremely helpful and assisted one of my friends last time. After the toboggan ride down they even gave us free hot chocolate coupons.
In my opinion, head over to Sunrise if you're coming from Tucson (6 hour drive) or Phoenix (5 hour drive). -
Review from Heather W.
Phoenix, AZ
10/23/2008 2 photos
I have mixed feelings about snowbowl.
I board not ski, so take that into consideration with this review. I go to Snowbowl a few times every winter and as far as boarding goes it's definitely not my number one pick. I keep going back because it is pretty much the only place in AZ where you can go to snowboard, unless you want to take the 4 hour drvie out to Sunrise.
My likes about Snowbowl are that there is never really much of a wait at the lifts, they keep it flowing pretty smooth. It is also a great place to take beginners. I went with my brother and sister up there last year and taught them how to snowboard. The mountain isn't too steep and the paths aren't too difficult, but after going a few times, you definitely outgrow this place. The lodge is also really nice and they have some pretty good grub, cafeteria style. The best part by far is the view! I love the lift ride because you can just look around and check out how beautiful it is up there. It's definitely a nice break from the phoenix desert scene.
My dislikes are that it can be so hit and miss up there. Sometimes I go and get lucky enough for some fresh powder, which makes for an awesome day. Other times I go and everything is so melted that I end up tearing up the board from all of the rocks. The mountain itslef really isn't too big, so it's a quick ride down. The biggest downfall would have to be all of the people though. Going on Saturday usually isn't the best idea. Because it is pretty much the only place in AZ to go, the place can get soooooo packed. And for some reason, people always think its a good idea to plop down in the middle of the mountain. It kind of becomes an obstacle course with all of the people.
Snowbowl is a good place to go learn or if you're just looking for a day trip to hit the slopes, but if you're experienced and have time to make a weekend out of it, I would definitely recommend heading up to Colorado. -
Review from Jessica H.
Flagstaff, AZ
8/27/2011
I went to Snowbowl in July for the day and did the Sky Ride, I got coupons off of the snowbowl website before I went and it knocked off about 4 bucks per ticket. It is definetly something to do on a day where it's nice outside and you don't feel like doing much or spending to much money. The drive up is about 20 minutes from Flag, Once you get up to Snowbowl the chair lift up is about 30-45 minutes each way. The ride to the top of the mountain is nice, you can see alot of forrest and meadows at some points of the ride on the way up the chair lift is taller than the trees.Once you get to the topof the mountain if you hike up the hill to the top (about a 15 minute walk) you can see all of Flagstaff and the south rim of the Grand Canyon.
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Review from Fred M.
Phoenix, AZ
2/3/2010
Why all the negative reviews on Snowbowl? I love the place. It's like having my own little resort on weekdays.
I've been coming here since 2004 and in 2005 when it snowed like a mother almost every day. I went up every Monday from season open to close. I've encountered nothing but friendly people, short lift lines if any and much better hills than Sunrise. There are so many places at Sunrise that just aren't steep enough to keep moving. Snowbowl at the top of the mountain is very steep, and they don't get upset if you want to ride through trees.
Lifts are slow, yes, that is true, but you'll rarely wait in line on a weekday and when you are coming down the mountain, you'll have the place virtually to yourself. -
Review from B S.
Flagstaff, AZ
10/14/2008
Arizona Snowbowl. Go ahead and put the legal issues aside and just assess the experience of recreating here. (Google for more info on the long snowmaking feud)
Skiing here is hit or miss, feast or famine at best. When it is good, it is very good. Though if it is Saturday, it is not, due to crowds. If you can make a powder day here mid-season in the midweek, it is as good as it gets. On the other hand, if it has't snowed for while, or it is bad year (most of them), then don't show up.
Don't expect big things. This is a small place with small amounts of service and customer care is non-existent. Bring skis, don't rent. Just show up to ski, not prance about with your Colorado attitude.
All in all, this is how skiing was, and should have remained. Small, simple, easy. -
Review from Seana S.
Chandler, AZ
10/6/2011
what's there not to love about snowbowl? in several hours from phoenix, you can be in a nice, cool area with plenty to see. white trees, regular trees, watching leaves change, a $12 ski lift (go on their site for discount tickets), 12 mile kachina trail - moderate difficulty. frisbee golf in front of the lodge, lots of benches and chairs to enjoy the views. cute little lodge inside, cozy gift shops. friendly people, small town feel.
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Review from Julie P.
8/15/2008 1 photo
This review is specifically for the summer activities offered by the Arizona Snowbowl.
Most people are unaware that Snowbowl is open during the off season for many activities. In addition to the public areas being open, you can take the big lift up to the top to an observation base where you can picnic, view the scenery, and frolic to your hearts delight. 25% off Coupons are available at the following website. http://www.arizonasnow... Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for seniors 65-69, $8 for kids 8-12 and free for the little ones or Sr's over 70. The ride takes about 25 minutes each way. The ride is open 7 days a week through labor day and then Friday through Sunday until the ski season begins. This is a fabulous thing to do on a lazy afternoon, but even more so once the leaves start to change. Because the base of the peaks are covered mostly with Aspen's, you will get to see a living work of art! For those of you looking for something more than just beauty, ranger's offer lectures at the top of every hour Friday through Sunday.
Trails are available for self guided hikes. One thing you should remember before embarking on your journey are the Peaks are the result of a dormant volcano. Their elevation ranges from about 7,000 ft at the base to almost 13,000 feet at the summit of Humphrey's Peak (this happens to be Arizona's highest point). Basically that means that it will be an average of 40 degrees cooler at the summit that anywhere in the desert. These grounds are considered sacred by some communities, so remember some simple rules:
* leave only footprints and take only pictures
* don't create new trails and do not cut switchbacks
* downhill traffic should always yield to uphill traffic
* don't block trails and always allow room for others
* take lots of water
* prepare for dramatic climate changes (summer storms happen up north too)
The Arizona Snowbowl offers one of the most scenic disc golf courses in the state. It's a full 18 holes, starts and ends at the Agassiz Lodge, and has a practice basket just outside the lodge. Use of the course is free, but there is a donation box to help with the course upkeep.
* The gate is locked at 5:00 p.m., so if you plan on staying past that, you need to park below the gate
* If you pack it in, pack it out
* The course is on mountainous terrain - so watch your step
* Smoking is generally allowed, but please be very careful and remember to extinguish thoroughly
If you are spending some time in Flagstaff, take the beautiful 20 minute drive up Highway 180 and see what the Arizona Snowbowl has to offer during the off-season months. : )Listed in: The College Years - Flagstaff…
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Review from Neal B.
Phoenix, AZ
2/23/2010
Great place for Phoenix people to go. Take the family. Wait in the long lines. Take a break in the middle of the slopes. At least they all converge on this one mountain.
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Review from Amy C.
Chicago, IL
7/15/2009
I actually took my 3 year old son there in July. They use the main chairlift as a "Skyride." The view at the top of the mountain is truly breathtaking and on a clear day you can see as far as the Grand Canyon. My son loves outdoor adventures and this was up there for him as an all time favorite. The only reason that I did not give it a 5 star rating is that for little people like my son it can be a little scary as it is very high up. But if you're looking for a romantic interlude on a Summer afternoon in Flagstaff this is certainly the place. I would have to say this is a must-see for any summertime Flagstaff trip.
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Review from Christine M.
Gilbert, AZ
3/11/2010
Super great place for beginner snowboarders! Wide open, tons of room, incline is perfect. I'm a beginner boarder and have been to Heavenly, Sunrise and Snowbowl - this is the best place to learn. Great drive up from Gilbert, friendly staff, good lunch choices and great selection of draft beer. Be open minded and give this place a chance. We just wrapped the day and the snow was incredible! Truly a great destination for Phx people and kid friendly too!
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Review from Dara H.
Scottsdale, AZ
6/20/2010
We went to the Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Skylift in June. The skylift was fantastic. The views were amazing - It was over 11,000 feet at the top. There was even a bit of snow left at the top in mid-June. Being from Phoenix, it was a fantastic family activity in the summer to escape the heat. There were few people there - no waiting at all and a helpful national park employee was at the top to answer all questions. Also, if you go to the Snowbowl website, they have a 25% off coupon for the family. We will plan to go again when the fall leaves change.
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Review from Matthew N.
Phoenix, AZ
2/9/2010
I went yesterday, yes it is true the lifts are slow, the snow was amazing. They have over 6feed of snow at the lodge and almost 9 on top. If you are an advanced skier, there is one lift called agazziz, I think, and it has a 2000 vertical drop. But the most important part is on Monday's there are no lift lines!
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Review from Ty A.
Cave Creek, AZ
12/25/2010
It's good because it is close and that is about it. For the casual skier or snowboarder it is fine. I usually go about 3 times a year and its great that I can get up there and back to Phoenix before dinner. It can get very crowded at times, and there have been times when I only got a handful of runs in. Other times I've been I went right on the lift, no lines at all. Another thing I dislike is that the lifts are slow and they stop them often. They need to make sure people know how to get on and off the lift before letting every little kid go on their own, fall on their face, and stop the lift to wait for them. I've had them stop it several times on one trip up. It's irritating that I wait in line for 20+ minutes, then get on the slow lift that takes another 15 minutes to get up, then they stop it several times. However the staff is friendly and as I said for Phoenix it is a great place to go for the day.
