Sedona During The Winter Months

Winter in Sedona, Arizona. © Mike Koopsen

Winter season in Sedona is considered December, January and February. November is the tail-side of Fall and March is at the beginning edge of Spring. Average high temperatures during the winter months is in the mid-50s with average lows in the high 20s to low 30s Fahrenheit which is quite chilly.

A temperature of 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit may be cold to residents in the warmer Phoenix and Scottsdale area, but to a tourist from the east or mid-west may find that temperature range quite pleasant comparatively to the winter season in their states. There are many reasons why visiting Sedona during the winter may be a good choice.

Best Reasons To Visit Sedona AZ During The Winter

• Lodging is the most affordable during the winter where great bargains and special deals are available on hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, resorts and vacation rentals.
• Winter is the least crowded time of the year in Sedona. It is also the least crowded at the Grand Canyon South Rim which is only about a 110 mile drive from Sedona. Some say that the Canyon is the most beautiful when dusted with snow.
• Sedona gets little snow during the winter months and when it does snow, it generally melts quickly. Besides, it is a gorgeous sight when the red rocks are covered with snow.
• Golfing in the high 50s and low 60s is fairly nice in Sedona AZ. There are several world-class golf courses in Sedona featuring great views of the Sedona red rocks.
• It gets chilly during the evening, but that is the perfect time to enjoy a relaxing dinner or share some romantic time snuggling around a warm fireplace.
• If you have a yearning for warmer weather, take a day trip to the Phoenix and Scottsdale area where temperatures are typically 15 degrees warmer.
• The Holiday Season is festive in Sedona, Arizona. There are events during the season such as the Red Rock Festival of Lights. The 6,000 luminaries at Tlaquepaque will get you in the Holiday spirit. The Verde Canyon Railroad, just about 20 miles away in Clarkdale features a Santa Claus-themed train ride through the Verde Canyon.
• If you love heavy snow, head north to Flagstaff, Arizona where the elevation is 1,500 feet higher than Sedona. The Snowbowl in Flagstaff opens for snow-skiing when the base is ideal for skiing. There are plenty of snowplay areas for kids with gentle tubing hills.

Bring The Right Clothing

You'll want to plan for the weather. Long pants. long-sleeved shirts, sweatshirts, and both light and heavier jackets. Dressing in layers is the best choice. If you plan on some sightseeing and walking around in nature, athletic shoe wear, particularly water-proof wear will make it more comfortable. The average rainfall the Sedona winter is about 1.7 inches per month. A water-proof wind-breaker is recommended.

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