Best Time to Visit Flagstaff
Arizona TravelGuide picks the best time to visit Flagstaff, with a monthly summary of the weather, plus hotel prices and special events to help plan a visit.
Flagstaff is lovely throughout the year, but very different in the different seasons. Nestled amongst the world’s largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest, the city offers a unique blend of diverse landscapes and compelling history.
However, the true charm that sets this city apart is its distinct climatic patterns which vary significantly throughout the year. Some months, you’d be wearing your winter gear, while others would have you enjoying a sunny picnic.
So when is the best time to visit Flagstaff? Let’s dive in, and allow us to guide you on a month-by-month breakdown of the Flagstaff climate.
Best Time to Visit Flagstaff Month-by-Month
Starting in January, we find Flagstaff painted in thick layers of snow. The average temperature sits at a chilly 14°F (-10°C). About 2 inches (50.8mm) of snowfall contributes to a winter wonderland scenario. January is also when the Dew Downtown Flagstaff Ski and Snowboard Festival takes place. The Flagstaff BrewHaHa, a beer tasting festival, is another highlight of the month. Hotel prices are quite fair due to the off-peak season.
As we move to February, the temperature slightly climbs to roughly 34°F (1°C), but the city still remains gripped by winter with around 2.1 inches (53.3mm) of snowfall. This month welcomes the annual Winterfest, a series of events, showcasing Flagstaff’s winter activities. Hotel prices remain relatively stable.
March sees the first signs of spring, with the temperature resting to a more comfortable 42°F (5.5°C). Rainfall begins to replace snow, with an average precipitation of 1.3 inches (33mm). Hotel prices begin to inch up as spring breakers start to roll in.
April springs into action with average temperatures rising to about 52°F (11.1°C). A modest rainfall of around 0.9 inches (22.86mm) keeps the landscape verdant and vibrant. Hotel prices continue on an upward trend.
In May, the temperature rises to a pleasant 62°F (16.6°C) and with an average rainfall of 0.8 inches (20.32mm), the spring season reaches its peak. The Zuni Festival of Arts & Culture at the Museum of Northern Arizona, gathering Native American artists, musicians, and dancers, is a significant attraction. With summer around the corner, hotel prices rise substantially.
Don’t miss our post about Flagstaff being the Craft Beer Capital of Arizona!
June brings in the summer season with the mercury hitting 73°F (22.7°C). Rainfall is minimal, a mere 0.4 inches (10.16mm). Events like the Flagstaff Blues and Brews, a music festival, may serve as a magnet for tourists. Visitors can also enjoy the Flagstaff Hullabaloo, a community festival featuring local food and music. Expect hotel prices to be at their peak.
July turns up the heat, literally, as temperatures soar to about 77°F (25°C). However, the monsoon rains averaging 2.6 inches (66.04mm), offer some respite from the summer heat. Flagstaff Art in the Park held over the weekend of the 4th of July attracts art enthusiasts. Peak season means top-dollar for hotel rooms.
August sees a slight dip in the temperature to 75°F (24°C) but the monsoon continues, with rainfall peaking at approximately 2.8 inches (71.12mm). No significant events occur this month, but nature’s own spectacle of stormy skies and green landscapes is worth the visit. The rush starts to slow down, leading to a modest drop in hotel prices.
As we move into September, temperatures cool down to 69°F (20.5°C). The rainfall, at a reduced 1.9 inches (48.26mm), signals the end of the monsoon season. Flagstaff Route 66 Days and the Coconino County Fair generally take place this month. Hotel prices begin to dip down.
October, our personal favorite month, brings autumn winds and a delightful chill. The mercury drops to a crisp 58°F (14.4°C), and rainfall measures about 1.1 inches (27.94mm). The city hosts the annual Oktoberfest and Pumpkin Walk & Fall Fest at the Arboretum for autumn-themed fun, making it the ideal time to experience the Flagstaff weather. Hotel prices continue the downward trend.
November invites in the winter chill with temperatures dropping to a nippy 45°F (7.2°C). Light snowfall merges with the remaining 1.1 inches (27.94mm) of rainfall to create a magical combination. No significant events take place, but the winter charm alone is enough for a visit. Expect hotel prices to be lower, making it budget-friendly for travelers.
Finally, December welcomes us with a refreshing winter chill, as temperatures linger around 34°F (1.1°C). Flagstaff experiences its heaviest snowfall of the year, around 2.3 inches (58.42mm), making it a winter wonderland. While there are no significant events, the ski slopes open up. Hotel prices take a tiny leap due to the holiday season but are more affordable than the summer months.
Best Time to Visit Flagstaff: Summary
So, when is the best time to visit Flagstaff? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re a winter sports enthusiast who loves the cold, the snow-clad months of January to March would be ideal.
If you’re a fan of spring blooms and vivid landscapes with moderate temperatures, you might want to consider visiting Flagstaff during April and May. Plus, the hotel prices aren’t too bad either.
For those who love the heat, live music, and arts, they might find June to August perfect. The summer season is great with a slew of events taking place. Do brace yourself for higher hotel prices, though.
If you’re a fan of the autumn chill, vibrant foliage, and cozy weather, September to November would be your best bet. The weather is fantastic, and the hotel prices are quite affordable.
Finally, if you’re in love with the winter wonderland ambiance or if you’re a skiing enthusiast, December would be a superb choice. Hotel prices start to rise but still remain considerable.
We believe the best time to visit Flagstaff is truly up to you. It all depends on your preference of season, weather, activities, and how much you’re willing to spend on accommodation.
Frommer’s Arizona and the Grand Canyon
This is our recommended guide for Arizona and the Grand Canyon, if you’re thinking of planning a visit. The two authors both live full-time in Arizona and the book is therefore based on lifetime experiences of the state. It has 86% 5- and 4-star ratings on Amazon.
