Even longtime Arizona residents think of the Grand Canyon state as a mecca for cacti and haboobs, but just a few hours north is a snowy oasis waiting for overheated Phoenicians in the winter months. Greer is a small town in the White Mountains and is the perfect spot for snowfall and skiing at Sunrise Ski Resort. While it’s beautiful year-round with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding and fishing, it makes the perfect winter getaway for those who want to experience the changing of the seasons. 

Where to Stay 

The Molly Butler Lodge & Restaurant

This resort has been a staple in Greer for nearly 110 years, making it Arizona’s oldest guest lodge, and it’s still a visitor favorite today. It’s long and captivating history includes visits from John Wayne, Teddy Roosevelt and Herbert Hoover. Not only are the peaceful, rustic accommodations perfect for a trip to the mountains, but the resort is well-known for its award-winning food. It’s worth stopping by even if you stay somewhere else!  

The Greer Lodge Resort & Cabins

This nationally recognized, stunning resort is the perfect way to enjoy nature in the White Mountains. Guests can choose between log motel rooms and cabins that sleep up to 12, making it the perfect spot for a group outing. Plus, even dogs are welcome! One of the best things about the resort is that every room or cabin is right on the water, making for breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities to explore. 

Where to Eat

Omnivores Eatery

Omnivores Eatery at Snowy Mountain Lodge is a top-rated New American restaurant with something for everyone— from burgers to pasta and gluten-free to vegan offerings like lemony quinoa spaghetti. 

Rendezvous Diner

Rendevous Diner is a classic, comfortable diner with a small-town feel, great service and delicious food that fits in perfectly with the welcoming town of Greer. Diners can look forward to comfort food favorites like cheeseburgers, BLTs and chili. 

What to Do 

Skiing and Snowboarding

While Greer is a beautiful, quiet and peaceful town perfect for a laidback getaway, skiing and snowboarding are the things to do there with its close proximity to Arizona’s largest ski resort, Sunrise Park Resort. Sunrise Park Resort offers plenty of gentle runs, a handful of black diamond runs and a great lodge, making it an ideal ski destination for snow sports enthusiasts at all levels. 

Sledding

For those who want to enjoy the magic of snow but aren’t quite ready for the learning curve associated with skiing or snowboarding, we recommend taking it back to childhood simplicity and engaging in some good, old-fashioned sledding. There’s no shortage of small mountains to sled down, and there is a sledding spot on the way to Sunrise Park Resort as well as at many of the town’s lodges.

Happy vacationing! Share your fun times with us by using #PHXFray #FrayLife and check out our list of beginner-friendly golf courses if you want more recommendations!