Weather & Average Temperature

At 7,000 feet (2,135 meters) elevation, Flagstaff is located in the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the world. Ecosystems spanning piñon-juniper studded plateaus, high desert, green alpine forest and barren tundra can all be found within the Flagstaff area.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURES & CLIMATE IN FLAGSTAFF

Flagstaff has a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are mild, with average highs in the 80s, and a monsoon season brings thunderstorms from July to September. Winters are cold, with plentiful snowfall, making it an ideal destination for skiing and other snow activities. Spring and fall are mild and dry, perfect for outdoor adventures at nearby parks and monuments. 

Due to the dry air and high elevation, large temperature swings between days and nights are common, with early morning lows often 30-40°F cooler than afternoon highs. Be prepared for possible sudden weather changes, including snowfall during the winter months.

• Average Annual Days of Sunshine : 266 days
• Average Annual Precipitation : 22.96 inches (58.32 cm)
• Average Annual Snowfall : 108.8 inches (276.35 cm)
• Average Temperature in Summer: High - 73°F | Low - 53°F
• Average Temperature in Winter: High - 49°F  | Low - 20°F

TIPS FOR COMFORT

The altitudes in northern Arizona vary significantly, from over 12,000 feet (3,658 m) atop Flagstaff’s Humphrey’s Peak and nearly 7,000 feet (2,135 m) in Flagstaff and at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, to about 4,500 feet (1,372 m) at Sedona and the Painted Desert, and just over 2,500 feet (771 m) in the depths of the Grand Canyon river gorge. No matter what time of year you visit, layering and comfortable clothes are a must in northern Arizona. Bring comfortable shoes, long pants, short- and long-sleeved shirts, a sweater or fleece, a hat and sunglasses.

Spending time outdoors at 7,000 feet can lead to sunburn on cool and cloudy days as quickly as on warm and sunny ones due to the sun's increased intensity at high altitudes. Remember to apply sunscreen before venturing out. At higher elevations, you may also experience fatigue and shortness of breath. When visiting, drink plenty of water, rest often, wear sunglasses and a hat, and reapply sunscreen and lip balm frequently.

WHAT TO PACK:

• January – April: Refreshing days and crisp nights! Nights are cold, with temperatures warming up during the day. Layering is key and snow is possible. Bring warm pants, winter coat, gloves, boots and heavy socks.
• May – August: Perfect summer weather! Days are comfortable with cooler temperatures in the evening. During the summer monsoon season of July through mid-September, afternoon thunderstorms and rain showers are possible. Bring shorts, light pants, rain gear and sandals.
• September – October: It’s the perfect season to enjoy the fall colors! Days are comfortably cool and refreshing with slightly chilly evening temperatures. Bring a light jacket, a sweater, and pants for layering in the evening.
• November – December: Enjoy Flagstaff’s beautiful winter wonderland! Nights are cold, with temperatures warming up during the day. Layering is key and snow is possible. Bring warm pants, a winter coat, gloves, boots and heavy socks. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT FLAGSTAFF

With its high altitude and moderate climate, Flagstaff boasts comfortable temperatures throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for every season. In the colder months, Flagstaff transforms into a winter wonderland, beckoning skiers and snowboarders to carve their way down the powder-capped slopes of the Arizona Snowbowl. Meanwhile, summer invites adventurers to explore the region's vast network of hiking trails. Spring and fall are equally enchanting, with mild weather perfect for embarking on scenic drives through the stunning landscapes or simply soaking up the fresh mountain air. With its natural beauty and abundance of things to do, Flagstaff offers an unforgettable experience in every season.

WEATHER INFORMATION

• National Weather Service
  (928) 556-9161 • weather.gov/flagstaff
• Recorded Weather Information
  (928) 774-3301
• Arizona Department of Transportation
  (888) 411-ROAD (7623) • azdot.gov
  511 (in AZ) • az511.gov • Twitter: @ArizonaDOT
• Arizona Snowbowl
  (928) 779-4577 • arizonasnowbowl.com • Twitter: @AZSnowbowl
• Coconino National Forest
  (928) 527-3600 • www.fs.usda.gov/coconino • Twitter: @CoconinoNF
• Grand Canyon National Park
  (928) 638-7888 • nps.gov/grca • Twitter: @GrandCanyonNPS

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