Autumn in Arizona has its own unique flair compared to other regions. It’s delightful to enjoy a bit of that “second summer” feel alongside the exciting adventures fall brings.
When Does Autumn Start in Phoenix and Tucson?
If you’re hoping for crisp autumn weather, be prepared to wait a bit. In places like Phoenix and Tucson, expect a gradual transition from severe heat to milder temperatures from late September into mid-October.
Fall creeps in slowly, much later than you might anticipate. The desert seems almost hesitant to relinquish its summer warmth.
How Early is Autumn in Flagstaff and Alpine?
Flagstaff, sitting at about 7,000 feet, feels the chill much sooner than the lower regions. Sweaters become a common sight by mid-September.
The same holds true for Alpine and its neighbors in Apache County, where the elevation is around 8,000 feet, bringing a noticeable drop in temperature from early September onward.
How is Autumn in Cochise County?
If you find yourself in Cochise County, it’s likely you’ll still be enjoying a warm summer. The weather cools gradually post-monsoon.
But don’t stash those hoodies just yet! Towns like Bisbee, Sierra Vista, and Tombstone are famed for their “Second Summer,” which leads right into the cooler autumn months.
What About Yuma in Autumn?
Yuma is where you feel the heat most intensely in Arizona. Sitting just 140 feet above sea level, the temperatures linger, making it feel like summer stretches well into autumn.
In September, highs can still reach around 102°F, while nighttime lows hover at 74°F. It isn’t until November that you’ll notice a more significant change, as even then, it remains among the warmer locations in the state.
Embracing Arizona’s Varied Autumn Weather
If the autumn weather in your town doesn’t suit your fancy, consider driving a few hours to find just what you’re looking for within the Grand Canyon State.
Exciting Fall Activities in Arizona
Arizona truly comes alive in autumn. Discover fantastic adventures in this cooler climate!
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Scottsdale
Oak Creek Canyon Exploration
Trip to Verde Canyon Railway
Hike through the Huachuca Mountains
Visit the Arizona Fair
Arizona Sonora Desert Museum in Tucson
Hiking Tonto Natural Bridge
Sabino Canyon Adventures in Tucson
Flagstaff Peak Hike
Visit the Phoenix Zoo
Red Rocks of Sedona
Reed Park Zoo in Tucson
Scenic Drive Along Apache Trail
Spend a Day at Sonoita Wineries
Hike Aspen near the Snow Bowl
Best Places to See Arizona Fall Colors
You don’t need to go all the way to Vermont to see the beautiful autumn hues. Arizona has its own stunning autumn colors and textures that can be found all over the state.
Visiting Alpine
If you head to Alpine in the fall, the scenery might make you feel like you’ve traveled far from Arizona. Nestled in the White Mountains and surrounded by the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest, this area offers breathtaking views of golden aspens and oaks.
Flagstaff
The unique climate and biodiversity here can make you temporarily forget the heat back in Phoenix. Flagstaff hosts the largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest in North America, and the stunning landscapes include views of Mount Elden and San Francisco Peaks.
Huachuca Mountains
Located near Fort Sierra Vista, the Huachuca Mountains provide a vivid display of autumn colors and are an ideal spot for an afternoon in nature.
Sedona
Renowned for its red rock formations, Sedona becomes even more captivating in autumn, as the leaves change and the weather becomes perfect for outdoor activities.
Oak Creek Canyon
This canyon, not far from Sedona, offers beautiful scenery and a chance to enjoy the changing leaves on a scenic drive.
Mogollon Rim
A lovely spot for experiencing autumn, Mogollon Rim features cool weather suitable for all sorts of outdoor activities, combined with colorful foliage.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a splendid destination year-round, but visiting in fall means cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning views as the trees start to change.
