Flagstaff

Skiing and Snowboarding

The ski season usually starts in mid-December and ends in mid-April.

Arizona Snowbowl. Seven miles north of Flagstaff off U.S. 180, the Arizona Snowbowl has 32 downhill runs (37% beginner, 42% intermediate, and 21% advanced), four chairlifts, and a vertical drop of 2,300 feet. There are a couple of good bump runs, but it's better for beginners or those with moderate skill; serious area skiers take a road trip to Telluride. Still, it's a fun place to ski or snowboard. The Hart Prairie Lodge has an equipment-rental shop and a SKIwee center for ages four to seven.

All-day adult lift tickets are $53. Half-day discounts are available, and group-lesson packages (including two hours of instruction, an all-day lift ticket, and equipment rental) are a good buy at $79. A children's program, which includes lunch, progress card and full supervision 9:30-3, runs $85. Many Flagstaff motels have ski packages that include transportation to Snowbowl. Snowbowl Rd., North Flagstaff, Flagstaff, AZ, 86002. 928/779-1951; 928/779-4577 snow report. www.arizonasnowbowl.com.

Flagstaff Nordic Center. The Flagstaff Nordic Center is 9 mi north of Snowbowl Road. There are 25 mi of well-groomed cross-country trails here that are open 9-4 daily. Coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks are served at the lodge. A day pass for skiing costs $12 on weekdays and $18 on weekends. An instruction package costs $45, including equipment, day pass, and a 90-minute lesson. Renting equipment by itself is $16. U.S. 180, 16 mi north of Flagstaff, North Flagstaff, Flagstaff, AZ, 86002. 928/220-0550. www.flagstaffnordiccenter.com.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Hiking
• Mountain Biking
• Rock Climbing

• Skiing and Snowboarding
• Tours