Arizona Leisure vacation guide

Average Temperatures in Show Low, Arizona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .

Show Low's elevation in Arizona's White Mountains creates a four-season climate that is much cooler than the lower deserts around Phoenix and Tucson. Summers are generally warm during the day with comfortable nights, while winter brings freezing temperatures, periodic snow and changing mountain-road conditions. Spring is mild but can be windy, and fall offers cool nights, sunny afternoons and changing foliage. The monthly temperatures on this page represent long-term climate averages rather than a current forecast, making them useful for vacation planning, outdoor recreation and deciding what clothing to bring.

Rainbow Lake near Show Low Arizona during mild White Mountains weather

Show Low Average Temperatures By Month

Show Low's monthly average high and low temperatures illustrate the city's considerable seasonal variation. Daytime temperatures are warmest during June and July, while December and January typically bring the coldest nights. Actual temperatures can vary substantially from these averages during individual heat waves, cold fronts and winter storms.

Chart of average monthly high and low temperatures in Show Low Arizona

Show Low Weather By Season

Show Low's mountain climate changes noticeably throughout the year. Elevation moderates summer heat but also creates colder nights, winter snow and occasional rapid weather changes.

  • Spring: Mild daytime temperatures, cold nights, variable winds and occasional late-season snow.
  • Summer: Warm afternoons, cooler evenings and periodic thunderstorms during the summer monsoon.
  • Fall: Sunny days, increasingly cold nights and colorful foliage in surrounding forest areas.
  • Winter: Cold days, freezing nights, snowstorms and occasional icy travel conditions.

Summer Weather In Show Low

Summer in Show Low is considerably cooler than in Arizona's lower deserts. Daytime temperatures commonly reach the 80s, while evenings and early mornings are often much cooler. June is generally warm and dry before moisture associated with the summer monsoon increases the chance of afternoon and evening thunderstorms.

Visitors should plan strenuous outdoor activities for the morning, use sunscreen at high elevation and carry rain protection later in the summer. Thunderstorms can produce lightning, gusty winds, heavy rain and brief temperature drops even when the day begins with clear skies.

Winter Weather And Snow In Show Low

December through February usually brings Show Low's coldest weather. Overnight temperatures frequently fall below freezing, and daytime highs may remain cool even during sunny periods. Snowfall varies considerably from one storm and winter to the next.

Winter visitors should check forecasts and highway conditions before traveling. Snow, ice and refreezing can affect roads around Show Low and higher-elevation destinations in the White Mountains. A sunny afternoon does not guarantee that shaded roads will be free of ice after sunset.

Show Low Monsoon Weather

Arizona's summer monsoon can bring increased humidity and recurring thunderstorms to the Show Low area, most often during July and August. Storms commonly develop during the afternoon or evening but can occur at other times.

  • Begin long hikes and outdoor projects early in the day.
  • Move indoors when thunder is heard.
  • Avoid exposed ridges, open water and isolated tall trees during lightning.
  • Never drive through a flooded roadway or flowing wash.
  • Expect localized rain totals to vary significantly across the White Mountains.
  • Check the current forecast rather than relying only on monthly averages.

Best Time To Visit Show Low

The best time to visit Show Low depends on the activities planned. Late spring and early fall generally provide comfortable temperatures for sightseeing, hiking, visiting Show Low Lake, and other outdoor recreation. Summer attracts visitors escaping the extreme heat of Arizona's lower deserts, while winter appeals to travelers interested in snow, nearby skiing and seasonal mountain scenery.

  • March Through May: Mild afternoons, cool nights and variable spring weather.
  • June: Warm, generally dry conditions before the most active monsoon period.
  • July And August: Warm days with a greater chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
  • September And October: Comfortable afternoons, cool nights and fall color.
  • November Through February: Cold weather, possible snow and winter recreation.

What To Pack For Show Low Weather

  • Bring layers during every season because mornings and evenings can be much cooler than afternoons.
  • Pack a light jacket even during summer.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat at high elevation.
  • Bring rain protection during the summer monsoon season.
  • Pack insulated clothing, gloves and waterproof footwear during winter.
  • Carry drinking water during hikes and outdoor activities.
  • Keep blankets and emergency supplies in the vehicle during winter travel.
  • Check the short-term forecast immediately before packing.

Current Weather In Show Low

The weather display below shows current conditions and short-term forecast information. Current weather can differ considerably from the long-term monthly averages shown above, particularly during thunderstorms, cold fronts and winter storms.

How Elevation Affects Show Low Weather

Show Low sits at an elevation of roughly 6,300 feet, in the White Mountains, which helps explain its cooler climate compared with Phoenix and other low-desert communities. Temperatures usually decrease as elevation increases, although local terrain, wind, cloud cover and nighttime inversions can produce exceptions.

Nearby White Mountains destinations at higher elevations may be substantially colder and can receive more snow. Travelers should not assume that conditions in Show Low will match those at Sunrise Park Resort, Greer, Alpine or other high-country destinations.

Show Low Weather FAQ

What is the hottest month in Show Low?
June and July generally bring the warmest daytime temperatures, although the exact monthly average depends on the observation station and climate-normal period used.

What is the coldest month in Show Low?
December and January generally bring the coldest average temperatures and the greatest likelihood of freezing nights.

Does Show Low get snow?
Yes. Show Low receives periodic winter snowfall, although total accumulation varies considerably by storm and from one winter to another.

How hot does Show Low get in summer?
Average summer highs are generally in the 80s, but individual days can be warmer or cooler than the long-term averages.

Are summer nights cool in Show Low?
Yes. Show Low's elevation commonly produces cooler evenings and early mornings than Arizona's lower-desert cities.

When is monsoon season in Show Low?
Thunderstorm activity usually increases during July and August, although the timing and intensity vary each year.

What is the best month to visit Show Low?
May, June, September and October often provide pleasant weather, but the best month depends on whether visitors prefer summer recreation, fall color or winter snow.

Is Show Low cooler than Phoenix?
Yes. Show Low is significantly higher in elevation and is generally much cooler than Phoenix, especially during summer and at night.

Do temperatures fall below freezing?
Yes. Freezing temperatures are common during winter nights and can also occur during parts of spring and fall.

Are monthly average temperatures a forecast?
No. Monthly averages summarize long-term historical conditions. Visitors should use a current forecast when making daily travel and activity decisions.

Related Show Low Interest

Show Low Arizona
Average Temps-Weather Show Low
Show Low RV Campgrounds
Show Low Map & Directions
Show Low RV Parks

Beautiful White Mountains In Arizona

 

 

Top Arizona Destination Areas

Pleasant, Rainbow, Willow Springs, Big Lake, More...

Greer, Strawberry, Cabins, Heber-Overgard, More...

Peaks Drive, Map, Williams, San Francisco Peaks, More...

Javalinas, Bats, Bobcats, Tarantulas, Bear, More...

Oak Creek Canyon, Palatki Ruins, Map, Weather, More...

Map, Jerome, Weather, Camping, Cabins, More...

Apache Junction, Mesa, Chandler, Parks, More...

Parks, Map, Route 66, Cabins, Distance Guide, More...

Sledding, Painted Desert, Antelope Canyon, More...

Wahweap, Map, Facts, Houseboats, Distances, More...

Tucson, Nogales, Tombstone, Rocky Point, More...

Phoenix To South Rim, Wildlife, Weather, Falls, More...

Hoover Dam, Parker, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, More...

Most Popular Arizona Attractions