Arizona Snowbowl Advice?

[Amie H]

Hi all,

It's been on my radar for a while but I'm finally going to try out Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff April 17-18 (a few weeks away!)

I know that when they get snow they get a LOT of snow. I chose it because of the long season and I was able to cobble together a fun, affordable trip with skiing on the front end and casino/spa before I go home.

ANYWAY...

Is the spring snow sticky/wet/cement-y usually? I'm already trying to decide which skis to bring. Once I figure that out, I'm going to try to get a wax at a local shop.

Also, is the drive from the Phoenix airport insane? The gal at Basecamp mentioned "insane Phoenix traffic" and I was like... (I'm staying there one night, then heading back to Phoenix area after Friday skiiing for two nights.)

Any other advice appreciated.

 

[KayOss]

Let's start at the beginning ... plan on a solid 2 hours from Phoenix. This can depend on what time you leave, as there is typical afternoon traffic M-F which starts around 3 pm. Once you get into Flagstaff you'll meander through town before you get to the road up to Basecamp and then the mountain. It's a very easy drive and the roads should be clear at that time (i.e. I can usually get there in my FWD Sienna).

Always check the conditions before: https://www.snowbowl.ski/the-mountain/weather-conditions-webcams/

If the conditions and weather permit, the hike up from the top to the Upper Bowl can have some epic spring runs. BUT you will be at altitude - 11,500 off the lift.

Enjoy!

 

[Amie H]

Thanks!

I will be leaving right from the airport to the mountain around 10:30am on a Thursday.

Since I'm staying at Basecamp Thursday night, they said on the off chance the chain rule is in effect, I can park there and take their shuttle up.

My big challenge is figuring out how/where to change from flight clothes to on piste attire. Especially since it may be very hot in Phoenix when I land.

I use a hydration pack while skiing some hopefully that helps w altitude. Oh, do they allow small packs on lifts there?

 

[Amie H]

Oh, also, If I get in late Thursday, I'm ok not skiing Thursday and doing something in Flagstaff.

 

[marzNC]

Oh, do they allow small packs on lifts there?

Haven't been to Snowbowl. However, I recently spent a day at Brian Head, which is also owned/operated by Mountain Capital Partners. There were a few signs asking people to remove backpacks when loading lifts. I had one liftie ask me to take a strap off for my little 6.5L pack. None of the other lifties cared. I did see people with bigger packs take them off or at least one strap.

 

[KayOss]

Yes they do allow packs so you're good to go!
Right now my schedule is booked for that Friday but if it changes I can see if I can meet up (I live in Prescott AZ)

And I've changed at the airport when I landed before but the temps in Flagstaff will be 25-30º cooler than in PHX.

 

[badger]

I am a passholder at Snowbowl too. I also live in Prescott.

Packs are not a problem. Changing into ski gear ...the bathrooms are awful. The temps are going to be warm that week, so you wont be requiring more than one baselayer. I just hope there is some decent snow for you! Keep in mind lifts won't open before ten am this time of year.

 

[badger]

I forgot to comment regarding type of snow. Flagstaff snow is dry and wonderful to ski. Rarely is there heaviness to it. My fear for your trip is that the snow will be slush unless they get a late storm. This has been a horrible snow year for us unfortunately.

 

[Amie H]

@badger I do know about the 10 am start. And bc midday late season lift tix are so inexpensive I don't mind only getting an hour or two on Thursday.
I will strategize something to wear for travel that can double as skiwear. Hoping for OK snow! If conditions are miserable, I can scoot over to the Grand Canyon, bc why not?

 

[badger]

You have it covered! I so wish I could be up there Friday to ski with you. It is possible for me to get up there Thursday though..

 

[Amie H]

UPDATE: trip cancelled.
I'll try again next season!

Some new tariff stuff just announced today, so I'm feeling OK about saving money for now. Trying to look on the bright side.