Spring break doesn’t have to mean crowded beaches and overpriced resorts. For adventure seekers looking to trade the ordinary for the extraordinary, Northern Arizona offers world-class hiking, mountain biking, and access to some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. And Little America Flagstaff, nestled among 500 acres of ponderosa pine forest, is the ideal base camp for it all.
Why Flagstaff for Spring Break
- Elevation advantage: At 7,000 feet, Flagstaff delivers crisp mountain air and sunny skies while coastal destinations swarm with crowds.
- Perfect temperatures: Average spring highs in the 50s and 60s are ideal for logging serious miles on foot or bike without overheating.
- Best of both worlds: Ski in the morning and hike in the afternoon when there’s still snow on the peaks.
- Unmatched access: Two national parks, six national monuments, and eight state parks are all within easy driving distance.
- Endless terrain: From Grand Canyon rim-to-river hikes to single-track through the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff puts you at the center of it all.
Day Trip: Grand Canyon South Rim
- Easy access: The South Rim is just 90 minutes from Little America Flagstaff, leaving plenty of time for a full day of adventure.
- South Kaibab Trail: Descend into the canyon on this challenging trail with jaw-dropping panoramas; hike to Ooh Aah Point (1.8 miles round trip) or Cedar Ridge (3 miles, 1,100 feet below the rim).
- Bright Angel Trail: Another excellent option with rest houses and water stations along the way for longer excursions.
- Rim Trail: Stretches 13 miles along the canyon’s edge with paved and unpaved sections suitable for all fitness levels.
- Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the morning light as it transforms the canyon walls.
Spring Skiing at Arizona Snowbowl
- Unexpected powder: Arizona Snowbowl, just 14 miles from downtown Flagstaff, regularly stays open through April and sometimes into May.
- Prime conditions: March delivers sunny skies, mild temperatures, and perfect corn snow from daily freeze-thaw cycles.
- Relaxed vibes: Sleep in, hit the mountain late morning as the snow softens, and enjoy uncrowded runs.
- Stunning views: On clear days, you can see all the way to the Grand Canyon from the slopes.
- Top-notch terrain: The high-speed Arizona Gondola accesses intermediate and advanced terrain, while the Humphreys Peak lift serves south-facing slopes.
- Ski and Stay Package: Book Sunday through Thursday at Little America Flagstaff for $198 per night and receive two complimentary adult all-day lift tickets, a value of $198. Vouchers are provided at check-in and can be redeemed Monday through Thursday.
Local Adventures Around Flagstaff
- Humphreys Peak Trail: Climb to Arizona’s highest point at 12,633 feet on this strenuous 10-mile round trip with alpine views.
- Schultz Creek Trail: A local mountain biking favorite with 3.5 miles of single-track winding through pine forests and meadows.
- Sandy’s Canyon and Walnut Canyon Rim Trail: Stunning scenery without the elevation gain, accessible once forest roads open in late March.
- Lava River Cave: Explore an ancient underground tunnel formed by volcanic activity; bring layers (temperatures hover around 40 degrees) and a reliable flashlight for this mile-long subterranean adventure.
- Flagstaff Urban Trail System: Over 50 miles of paved and unpaved trails for running, hiking, and biking right in town.
Refuel and Recover at Little America
- 500 private acres: Our property sits within a ponderosa pine forest, offering a peaceful retreat from the trail.
- Hot Tub: Take a dip to soothe tired muscles after a big day on the mountain or trails.
- On-site dining: Hearty, made-from-scratch meals perfect for refueling, from early breakfast before your next adventure to a satisfying dinner.
- No driving required: Everything you need to recover is right here on property.
Plan Your Adventure
Spring break in Northern Arizona isn’t about escaping reality. It’s about immersing yourself in some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American West. With Little America Flagstaff as your home base, you’ll have easy access to bucket-list destinations, challenging trails, and the kind of wide-open spaces that remind you why you love the outdoors. Book your stay and start planning your itinerary. The canyon is calling.