Best Ski Resorts Near Phoenix 2026
Yes, you can ski in Arizona! Despite the desert heat, Phoenix residents have access to legitimate ski resorts within a few hours' drive.
---
Quick Comparison
| Resort | Distance | Drive Time | Lift Ticket | Pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Snowbowl | 145 mi | 2.5 hrs | $100-140 | Ikon |
| Sunrise Park | 200 mi | 3.5 hrs | $70-85 | Independent |
| Brian Head (UT) | 300 mi | 5 hrs | $75-95 | Indy |
| Mt. Lemmon (Tucson) | 120 mi | 2.5 hrs | $70 | Independent |
Arizona Snowbowl - The Best Option
Location: Flagstaff, AZ (145 miles north)Arizona Snowbowl is the premier ski destination for Phoenix residents. Located on the San Francisco Peaks, it offers legitimate mountain skiing with:
- 777 acres of terrain
- 55 runs across all ability levels
- 260 inches average annual snowfall
- 2,300 ft vertical drop
- 90% snowmaking coverage
Why Choose Snowbowl
- Closest "real" ski resort to Phoenix
- Includes on Ikon Pass (great value for multiple trips)
- Views can stretch to the Grand Canyon on clear days
- Full resort amenities: rentals, lessons, dining
Pricing
- Day tickets: $100-140 depending on day
- Season pass: Ikon Pass ($1,199+)
- Rentals: $50-70/day
Day Trip Tips
- Leave Phoenix by 5am to catch first chair (9am)
- I-17 is an easy drive but can be icy—check conditions
- Flagstaff has great breakfast spots if you leave early
- Book rentals online in advance
Sunrise Park Resort - Budget Alternative
Location: Greer, AZ (200 miles northeast)Sunrise Park is Arizona's other ski option, operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe. It's larger in acreage but further from Phoenix.
- 800+ acres of terrain
- 65 runs across 3 mountains
- 250 inches average snowfall
- 1,800 ft vertical drop
Why Choose Sunrise
- Cheaper than Snowbowl ($70-85 vs $100-140)
- Three interconnected mountains
- Less crowded
- Great for families with affordable lodging
Drawback
- Longer drive (3.5 hours)
- Less reliable snow conditions
- More dated facilities
Utah Options - Worth the Drive
If you want bigger mountains, Utah is 5-6 hours from Phoenix:
Brian Head Resort
- 5 hours from Phoenix
- 71 runs, 650 acres
- $75-95 lift tickets
- Included on Indy Pass
- Great intermediate terrain
Sundance Mountain Resort
- 6 hours from Phoenix
- Small but scenic (42 runs)
- Robert Redford's resort
- Unique boutique experience
The Drive Trade-Off
Driving 5+ hours one-way makes Utah impractical for day trips. Consider:- Long weekend at Brian Head (affordable)
- Spring break week in Salt Lake City (Park City, Snowbird, etc.)
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Snowbowl Conditions | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| November | Early season, limited terrain | Wait unless fresh snow |
| December | Building base, 50-70% open | Holiday crowds |
| January | Peak season, best snow | Best month to go |
| February | Great conditions | President's Day crowds |
| March | Spring conditions, warm | Afternoon slush |
| April | Closing soon | Check if still open |
Phoenix Ski Trip Budget
Day Trip (1 person)
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Gas (round trip) | $50 |
| Lift ticket | $100-140 |
| Rental gear | $50-70 |
| Food | $25-40 |
| Total | $225-300 |
Weekend Trip (2 people)
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Gas | $60 |
| Lift tickets (2 days × 2) | $400-560 |
| Flagstaff hotel | $150-250 |
| Rentals | $100-140 |
| Food | $80-120 |
| Total | $790-1,130 |
FAQs
Does it really snow in Arizona? Yes! Northern Arizona gets significant snowfall. Flagstaff averages 100 inches annually, and the ski areas at higher elevations get 250-300 inches. Is Arizona Snowbowl on Epic or Ikon Pass? Ikon Pass. It's NOT on Epic Pass. When does Arizona ski season run? Typically mid-November through early April, depending on snow conditions. Can I do a day trip from Phoenix to ski? Absolutely. Arizona Snowbowl is the best day trip option at 2.5 hours each way. Leave early, ski 9am-4pm, home by 8pm.---