When to Go

Autumn—when the wet season ends, the stifling desert temperatures are 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 heat, 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

June

Historical Route 66 Car Show. Classic cars and trucks, from antiques to hot rods, are on display along Route 66 in downtown Williams for two days in mid-June. Outfit your own jalopy from the auto parts swap meet set up adjacent to the show. 200 Railroad Ave., Williams, Arizona, 86046. williamshistoricroute66carshow.com.

September

Festival of Science. This 10-day series of exhibits, activities, guided hikes, and talks in Flagstaff is a fun and interactive way to learn about current research in astronomy, geology, engineering, and biology. 800/842–7293; www.scifest.org.