Local
Flagstaff businesses look to early snow as Snowbowl starts seasonal snowmaking
A light coating on the San Francisco Peaks and the first snowmaking of the season at Arizona Snowbowl have raised hopes after two low-snow winters. Snow-related recreation brings nearly $20 million to Flagstaff in an average year, making winter conditions important to local businesses.
A light dusting of snow on the San Francisco Peaks and the start of seasonal snowmaking at Arizona Snowbowl are offering Flagstaff businesses an early reason for optimism after two lean winters.
Snow remained on the mountain’s west side as of Oct. 17, while the sunnier, south-facing slopes held only a light covering. Snowbowl switched on its snowmakers for the first time this season during the week, as the resort and local shops prepared for winter visitors.
Flagstaff resident Vanessa Miller, who has lived in the city for 20 years, said the changing weather and snow on the peaks were welcome signs. Some residents are hoping for a wetter winter amid expectations of a strong El Niño developing in the Pacific, though early snowfall alone does not determine how the season will unfold.
At Ski Haus, owner Matt Schmidgall said the shop was replenishing its inventory and preparing rental equipment ahead of Snowbowl’s opening. He said low snowfall over the past two winters had been difficult for businesses that depend on visitors.
Snow-related activities, including skiing, sledding and snow play, bring nearly $20 million to Flagstaff’s economy in an average year. Schmidgall said visitors can support the community by patronizing locally owned shops and other independent businesses.
People hoping to see the remaining snow can travel west on Highway 180 or north on Highway 89A to areas of the peaks that receive less direct sunlight.