Snowfall in Phoenix itself is extremely rare; the city only averages 5 days per year where the temperature drops below freezing and since records began, snow has only fallen seven times – the last of which was January 2001 (the first snow fall in 22 years).

However, much to the enjoyment of Phoenix’s skiers and snowboarders, there are several ski resorts within a few hours drive which are perfect for a day or weekend trip and should satisfy snow lovers’ cravings for the white stuff.

Arizona Snowbowl is located in the San Francisco Peaks in the Coconino National Forest, just a two hour drive from Phoenix. The ski area offers over 2,300 feet of vertical drop and 32 scenic trails that cover 777 acres and the Arizonan desert climate means the resort also enjoys plenty of sunny skiing days.

Those who prefer their skiing more sedate can visit the Flagstaff Nordic Center, located just seven miles north of Snowbowl. This area offers winter sports fans an extensive network of Nordic ski trails, as well as snowshoeing and sledding. Flagstaff also supports a healthy racing scene with competitions of various lengths held throughout the winter for cross country skiers.

The largest ski area in Arizona is Sunrise Park Resort, located in McNary in the Arizona White Mountains. Owned and operated by the White Mountains Apache Tribe, the areas comprises of eight lifts, and over 13 miles of cross country skiing trials.

And finally, if you want to ski in the most southerly ski resort in the Untied States, head for Mount Lemmon Ski Valley. Though Tucson is more likely to conjure up thoughts of sand rather than snow (several well-known beach resorts are located here) – just an hour’s drive away from the sea there is skiing and snowboarding to be found. The area is small, with a vertical drop of just 290m, 3 lifts and a ski-able area of 200 acres, but despite its southerly location, the resort still manages to open from December to April and the scenic views that overlook the area make Mt. Lemmon a popular ski destination.

Accommodation is available in (or near) all of these winter towns in the form of cabins, lodges and motels. Be warned though – people come here to ski rather than party so if you’re looking for a wild time, a better option would be to stay at a hotel in Phoenix and just commute to the ski areas during the day.

Seniors often travel to Phoenix for several fine reasons. One reason is that the weather is unique. With over 300 days of sunshine every year, Phoenix is a great place for outdoor living and recreation. Another reason many seniors enjoy Phoenix is that the many wonderful golf courses located here. All this, along with the Native American cultural roots, spring training and famous museum and art galleries, bring many seniors to Phoenix. Also, you are lucky in looking for a condo or home in Phoenix because there are many tremendous Phoenix real estate agents who know the area and the housing market trends. There are many excellent places in Phoenix and the area that are well-suited for seniors.

As a senior, you will want to consider living situation that will best meet your needs. There are a range of housing options from independent to assisted living so you can select the most appropriate. There are many retirement communities that offer a range of services to meet your needs at every stage of life.

Your best Phoenix home might be located on a golf course. You will find lots of golf course communities in Scottsdale and Phoenix. Some communities require residents being at least 55 years, while others are multi-generation living spaces. When looking at Phoenix real estate listings, consider the advantages that these communities provide. Security, the low maintenance of the houses and amenities like golf are worth considering. Many also offer swimming pools, libraries and clubhouses. One such community located near Phoenix is Sun City West.

You will find excellent senior friendly communities throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa and Tempe. Mesa offers many, including the beautiful 56 acre Hacienda de Valencia, which features picnic area, exercise room, laundry facilities and storage area for your RV.

Communities in the areas surrounding Phoenix can be a great solution for senior living. You desire a lot of Phoenix Arizona ground then this option may be one worth considering. You love golf, you will love the Highlands at Brentwood in Mesa that provides 9-hole golf course is sure to give you year-round outdoor pleasure.

Seniors in Tempe will discover the Meadows to be a great place to live. The Meadows is so convinient for an active senior for shopping, medical services, a world-class university, casinos and fabulous scenic areas.

Whatever area of Phoenix or its surroundings, seniors are welcome and find wonderful communities to live. You are sure to obtain the lifestyle you desire just right here – Phoenix or its surrounding.