Seasonal Visitor Guide
Plan your perfect visit based on the season.
Summer
Peak Season: June - August
Escape the Heat! Average highs of 76-77°F - that's 25-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix. Perfect weather for outdoor activities.
Insider Tip: Book accommodations early! Summer is peak season. Plan morning outdoor activities before afternoon thunderstorms (monsoon season July-August).
Best Activities
Hiking 200+ miles of trails
Fishing in 60+ lakes and streams
Mountain biking
Championship golf
Outdoor concerts and festivals
Wildlife viewing (elk, deer)
What to Pack
Light layers (mornings/evenings cool)
Sunscreen (high elevation = stronger UV)
Comfortable hiking shoes
Hat and sunglasses
Light rain jacket (afternoon storms)
Reusable water bottle
Fall
Peak Foliage: Late September - Mid October
Spectacular Colors! Aspen trees turn golden, creating stunning mountain scenery. Perfect weather with fewer crowds than summer.
Insider Tip: Greer (8,500 ft elevation) is the highest town in Arizona - best for aspen viewing! Peak colors typically late September to mid-October.
Where to see Aspens: Greer offers the most concentrated aspen viewing. The drive from Pinetop to Greer along Highway 260 and 373 provides spectacular roadside viewing opportunities.
Best Activities
Aspen viewing scenic drives
Run to the Pines Car Show
Wildlife viewing (elk rutting season)
Photography opportunities
Hiking in comfortable temps
Fall festivals
Best Scenic Drives
Hwy 260 to Greer (Hwy 373): 45 minutes, stop at Pole Knoll
Hwy 273 to Big Lake: 1 hour with multiple lake views
Hwy 261 to Point of Mountain: Panoramic views, wild horses
What to Pack
Layers (warm days, chilly nights)
Camera for fall foliage
Warm jacket for evenings
Sunscreen and hat
Binoculars for wildlife
Winter
Ski Season: Thanksgiving - Easter (weather dependent)
Winter Wonderland! Experience snow sports at Arizona's largest ski resort. Cozy cabin atmosphere with snowy mountain views.
Snow Conditions: Snow is common December-February. Always check road conditions at az511.gov before traveling. Chains may be required.
Important: Always check road conditions before winter travel. Drive slowly and allow extra time. Have emergency supplies in your vehicle.
Best Activities
Skiing/snowboarding at Sunrise
Snow tubing
Snowshoeing & cross-country skiing
Ice fishing
Cozy cabin time by fireplace
Holiday light displays
Wildlife viewing in snow
Ways to Save
Kids 12 & under ski FREE at Sunrise
Carload Mondays: $129 per car
Book weekday stays for best rates
What to Pack
Warm winter coat, gloves, hat
Snow boots and waterproof gear
Tire chains (may be required)
Sunscreen (sun reflects off snow)
Sunglasses
Multiple layers of clothing
Spring
Shoulder Season: March - May
Nature Awakens! Wildflowers bloom in meadows, wildlife babies appear, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. Great rates and availability!
Best Value Season: Late spring (May) offers great weather, wildflowers, and better availability than peak summer. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers!
Wildflower Season: Peak wildflower viewing varies by elevation and rainfall, but typically late April through May. Meadows around Greer and alpine areas are especially beautiful.
Spring Fishing: Lakes are stocked heavily in spring. Check azgfd.com for stocking schedules to plan your fishing trip.
Best Activities
Wildflower hikes in meadows
Trout fishing (spring stocking)
Bird watching
Photography
Golf season begins
Wildlife viewing (baby animals)
What to Pack
Layers (weather can be variable)
Rain jacket
Binoculars for wildlife
Camera for wildflowers
Fishing gear