Four-Season Climate
Flagstaff’s four-season climate provides for year-round outdoor activities, cultural, historic and scientific attractions, lively festivals, concerts, and small-town holiday charm.
Time Zone
Arizona stays on mountain standard time year-round. However, the Navajo Nation observes daylight savings time.
Flagstaff is the Perfect Year-Round Destination
Flagstaff’s combination of high altitude, low humidity and diverse terrain provide mild weather conditions and clear air throughout the year. At 7,000 feet (2,135 meters) elevation, Flagstaff is located in the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the world. However, ecosystems spanning piñon-juniper studded plateaus, high desert, green alpine forest and barren tundra can all be found within the Flagstaff area.
Tips for Comfort
Drink lots of water, apply sunscreen and lip balm frequently, and rest as often as necessary. At high altitude the sun is more intense and you may experience fatigue and shortness of breath. The altitudes vary in northern Arizona, 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.
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. Bring shorts, light pants, rain gear and sandals. During the summer monsoon season of July through mid-September, afternoon thunderstorms and rain showers are possible.
September – October.
It’s the perfect season to enjoy the fall colors! Days are comfortably cool and refreshing with slightly chilly evening temperatures.
November – December.
Enjoy Flagstaff’s beautiful winter wonderland! Bring warm pants, a winter coat, gloves, boots and heavy socks. Nights are cold, with temperatures warming up during the day. Layering is key and snow is possible.
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