The Wyants and Clarks Visit Arizona, 2002
Scenic Skyride at the Arizona SnowBowl
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On our return trip back to Phoenix from the Grand Canyon, we stopped at the Arizona Snowbowl (ski resort) to ride the scenic skyride up the resort's largest ski lift. The SnowBowl operates the ski lift during the summer months, through mid-October, as a fun activity for summer visitors. We were a little late in the season (October 18) and the peaks were blanketed with fresh snow from a storm the day before, so we had doubts that they would even be running the skyride, but they were!
The Arizona SnowBowl resides on the side of Mt. Agassiz, which is one of the San Francisco Peaks just outside of Flagstaff. At 12,300', Agassiz is the second highest of the peaks and is only slightly lower than its neighbor, 12,633' Mt. Humphreys, which is the highest point in Arizona. The sky ride begins at 9500' elevation and rises 2000' to an elevation of 11,500' on the western flank of Agassiz.
Due to the cold (low 40's), clouds and light wind, we bundled up for the scenic 30 minute ride to the top. Along the way we were treated to delightful sights of snow and golden aspens, mixed with the dark green of the predominantly pine forest.
 Snow covered peaks |
 Ski lift up Agassiz |
 Views along the way |
The ride to the top was cool, but not TOO cool, thanks in part to the light winds, but also to the new throw blanket that we bought at the SnowBowl gift shop. From the top of the lift, we had good views of the mountains and plains far below. After 30 minutes of picture taking and enjoying the views, we headed back down.
 More views |
 At the top |
 Mt. Humphreys |
After the scenic skyride, we piled back into our rented van and headed for Sedona and a biplane ride. Continue on to our biplane ride page.
