tony_wakefield

Could anyone give me some advice. I will be travelling along the Southern States from Orlando to LA in December and will be in either Arizona or near Las Vegas during Christmas. As I'm coming from Australia and have never had a "white" christmas, is there any place "along" the way, where my family and I could experience snow, etc. Thank you fro your help.

Patrick

You're generally pretty far south to expect any snow, with the possible exception of the mountains in the west. I'd get as far as Albuquerqe and head north to Taos or one of the nearby ski areas for a day or two.

resipsaloquitur

Dear Tony:

Northern New Mexico and northern Arizona (at higher altitudes) and southern Utah are your best bets for a "white Christmas" along your route. The Southwest deserts covered with snow can be spectacular. Remember that heavy snow storms in this area can close down highways and delay traffic in these areas, so some flexibility in travel schedules is a prudent idea!

One place you might consider spendig Christmas is Santa Fe, New Mexico. There's a good chance of snow over Christmas in Santa Fe, but even if there isn't any snow, you will still be able to enjoy one of the most colorful and fascinating Christmas celebrations in the US. Santa Fe is the scene of elaborate pre-Christmas processions, pageants, and illumination ("luminaria") displays, and other events blending the traditions of the Hispanic, Indian, and Anglo cultures. There are similar celebrations in other Southwest US towns and even in some of the nearby Indian pueblos (like Acoma), but the one in Santa Fe is one of the most famous. This, I think, would make for a special and "different" Christmas for you and your family.

One caveat: Many Americans flock to Santa Fe at Christmas! Be sure to book as far as possible in advance.

By the way, do not miss the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park, especially if you have the opportunity to see them after a snow fall. Magical! (Even though there are far fewer visitors in winter to these parks, I would still suggest booking ahead).

tony_wakefield

Many thanks for your tips. I will look forward to our journies.

j_max

i agree with the advice on sante fe,its beautiful,but too many people there at christmas..i would recommend flagstaff arz,it sits at 7200 ft,and you will see snow.. also close is sedona..sedona is almost at sea level,and 24 miles from flagstaff,you can imagine what that drive is like its almost like a roller coaster,only you are behind the wheel!!!! sedona is whwre john ford filmed most of his westerns..take the pink jeep tour into the desert u wont be dissapointed..