The Mountain

Sunset Gondola Rides

Summer sunset gondola rides at Snowbowl

Arizona sunsets like you’ve never seen them before.

The best sunsets in the world happen right here in the Grand Canyon State. And now, we’re offering the opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of Arizona sunsets in a way you’ve never seen before. Ride the all-new Arizona Gondola from the base area at 9,500 feet (2896 meters) and travel up to over two miles above sea level at 11,500 feet (3505 meters). From the upper mountain, the thin air creates even more intense colors and the ultra-high vantage point allows you to bask in the golden hour glow from one of the most unique locations at the top of the state.

Before or after your ride, a special sunset menu will be offered from 4 pm to 8 pm at Agassiz Restaurant featuring distinctive, refined entrées, decadent desserts, and a handpicked wine list made for pairing.

Rides are offered on select weekends in October for fall leaf viewing.  As fall sets in, expect cooler temperatures in the evening so be sure to dress accordingly.

Boarding begins at 4:30 PM and ends approximately 15 minutes before sunset, and the last ride down from the top will be approximately 15 minutes after sunset.

October Availability:

  • Friday 10/1
  • Saturday 10/2
  • Friday 10/8
  • Saturday 10/9
  • Friday 10/15
  • Saturday 10/16

Sunset Gondola Tickets

Prices start at $44 per person and limited quantities of tickets are available per day. We highly recommend booking in advance to secure your spot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The Experience

Q: How long does the ride last?

A: Each one way ride is approximately 10-15 minutes. At the top, you’ll be able to get off the gondola and view the sunset from the upper mountain.

Q: How long can I stay at the top?

A: After you arrive at the top, you can stay for as long as you’d like until 15 minutes after sunset. View sunset times here.

Q: How many people can ride in a cabin?

A: Each gondola cabin accommodates up to eight riders per group.

Q: What are temperatures like at the top?

A: Temperatures can be as much as 20 degrees lower at 11,500 feet than in Flagstaff and can drop quickly around sunset. We recommend bringing an extra layer, especially if you’re planning to spend more time at the top.

Q: What time is sunset?

A: Sunset times for October range from approximately 6:11 pm (October 1st) – 5:51 pm (October 16th).

Sunset gondola rides begin during golden hour, the period before sunset when the light is softer and the colors become more vibrant. Factors such as cloud cover, humidity, and atmospheric haze will affect how the sunset looks each day, but colors are typically most intense around 15 to 30 minutes before actual sunset.

 

Changing Your Tickets

Q: How can I change my tickets?

A: You can change your tickets anytime up to midnight (11:59 p.m MST) the night before your visit. Simply email [email protected] before the change deadline and our team will be happy to assist. All requests are processed based on the time the email is sent. If sent within 48 hours after purchase and up until midnight before the ticket is valid, you’ll be eligible for a full refund. If sent after 48 hours of purchase and up until midnight the ticket is valid, you’ll receive a resort credit for the value of your tickets that may be applied to future purchases (expires April 30, 2022). Requests submitted on the day of or after your ticket is valid cannot be honored, and your purchase costs will be forfeited.

Q: Can I share my credit with a friend or another family member?

A: Yes! You can use your credit for yourself or anyone else.

Q: If I purchased a ticket, can I use that credit for something else?

A: You can apply your credit to any summer or winter tickets. All credits must be used by April 30, 2022.

Q: Where can I get answers for questions not on this list?

A: Please send us an email at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to answer any other questions you have!

 

Terms and Safety Policies

All rides and attractions at are subject to closings and cancellations for weather or other conditions.  Restrictions apply including, but not limited to, capacity constraints and other closures and height/weight/health restrictions.

All summer activities at Snowbowl including the scenic gondola are weather permitting. Rates are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Guest assumes the inherent risks associated with the operation of all rides and attractions and should read and obey all safety signage, instructions and rules. All guests are required to complete a Release of Liability Form before participating in any activities. For more information, including updated weather conditions and operating schedule, call (928) 779-1951.