Arizona has a large amount of skiing, and some of the loveliest ski areas in the country. Many cities, like Phoenix, have ski clubs where its members can socialize and plan ski trips together to local and faraway ski meccas.

If your dream is of relaxing in a idyllic ski chalet, Phoenix may not seem like the place to go, but members of the Phoenix Ski Club are able to carpool to weekend ski trips in the nearby mountains.

The Arizona Snowbowl in Flagstaff is a very popular ski resort. It may seem strange to have a large ski resort in a state that’s known for its desert conditions, but it’s true. The Snowbowl has great skiing and is a fun way for Arizona natives to be able to enjoy the snow. There are no traditional ski chalets here, but there are ski lodges with all the modern amenities, and great restaurants. You will be able to find both family-friendly and romantic options here.

In the summertime, the Snowbowl is warm but not scorching, and taking a hike through the mountains can reward you with beautiful scenery. Perhaps even more beautiful is the autumn, when you can hike to the top of the mountain and see the changing colors in the forest below you.

There’s a golf course on the Snowbowl and a scenic sky tram, both of which are great ways to spend a summer afternoon.

So while it’s not exactly the traditional way to think of skiing, skip the vision of a ski chalet, Phoenix natives, and head to your local beauty!