When to Go to North-Central Arizona

Autumn, when the wet season ends, the stifling desert temperatures moderate (it's 20°F cooler than Phoenix), and the mountain aspens reach their full golden splendor, is a great time to visit this part of Arizona. During the summer months many Phoenix residents travel north to escape the 100°F temperatures, meaning excessive traffic along Interstate 17 just north of Phoenix on Friday and Sunday evenings. Hotels are less expensive in winter, but mountain temperatures dip below zero, and snowstorms can occur weekly, especially near Flagstaff.

Sedona has springlike temperatures even in January, when it's snowing in Flagstaff, but summer temperatures above 90°F are common.

Festivals and Events

September

Festival of Science. This 10-day series of exhibits and guest speakers—not limited to astronomy—in Flagstaff is made stellar by its observatories. 800/842-7293. www.scifest.org.

Flagstaff Route 66 Days. Classic and muscle cars roar into Flagstaff the second weekend in September for this fun auto show with live music and a host of vendors. 928/451-1204. www.route66carclub.com.