Spring Skiing at Arizona Snowbowl

Winter is an enchanting time on the mountain with crisp air and fresh powder, but when the balmy days of spring arrive, a transformation happens. Thick jackets are traded in for T-shirts and goofy costumes, deep fluffy powder is replaced by magical and elusive corn snow, and après drinks on sunny decks become an essential part of the whole experience.

Ready to experience spring skiing in Arizona? Be prepared and have the best time on the mountain with these tips.

Plan Ahead

Starting March 1-31 enjoy some of the best deals of the season are available during Snowbowl’s World’s Best Spring Break. The resort offers limited quantities of tickets as low as $29 with discounted add-on rentals or beginner lessons (ages 13+) for just $29 each. With affordable tickets, rentals, and lessons plus mild weather, it’s a great time for first-timers to get out on the slopes, and for experienced skiers to spend more days on the mountain.

Time It Right

For spring skiing, timing is essential to find the best conditions. Instead of the rush on powder days to snag first chair, spring skiing can be much more relaxed and leisurely. Take your time in the mornings and you’ll find prime corn snow as the sun softens and releases the large granules created from the freeze/thaw cycles – get the timing just right and you’ll enjoy amazing skiing throughout the day. Snow will begin to soften from 9-11 a.m. depending on the overnight temperatures and work your way from south and east facing slopes in the morning to west and north facing slopes in the early afternoon for the best conditions.

Our recommendation? Start with the south facing trails accessed by the Humphreys Peak lift early in the day, then head over to Grand Canyon Express and the new high-speed Arizona Gondola and cruise on the groomed runs on Ridgeside including Upper/Lower Ridge, Phoenix, and Southern Belle by mid-morning to noon. In the early afternoon, head over to Bowlside and ski Sundance, Flat Iron, Logjam and Volcano as the snow softens up. See a trail map here.

Après-Ski, Flagstaff Style

When the snow gets slushy in the late afternoon, it’s the perfect time to head to the Agassiz deck and enjoy a Bloody Mary from 9,500’ Bar or relax with a Tower Station at Hart Prairie Lodge. The fun continues after you leave the mountain and arrive in downtown Flagstaff with a selection of amazing breweries and restaurants in town. Even better? Present your Snowbowl ticket at local favorites such as Historic Brewing Company or Beaver Street Brewery and enjoy special discounts and offers.

With a bit of planning, you can enjoy some of the best skiing of season during the sunny days of spring with marvelous corn snow, a more laid-back vibe, and great deals. Can’t wait to visit? Learn more about Snowbowl and plan your trip at snowbowl.ski.