Planning a trip to Scottsdale, Arizona? Knowing the monthly weather conditions will help you pack appropriately and make the most of your stay. Scottsdale experiences a hot desert climate, with mild winters and scorching summers. Throughout the year, temperatures range from an average low of 42°F (5°C) in January to an average high of 105°F (40°C) in July.
The winter months, from December to February, are generally mild and sunny, with average daily temperatures in the mid-60s (°F) during the day and dropping to the mid-40s (°F) at night. While rain is infrequent during this season, it can occasionally occur. Winter is a popular time to visit Scottsdale, as the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and golf.
Transitioning into the spring months of March to May, the weather begins to warm up, with average daytime temperatures reaching the mid-80s (°F) and nighttime temperatures in the low 60s (°F). During this time, the desert bursts into bloom, creating a stunning display of wildflowers. However, spring can also bring occasional dust storms and windy conditions.
Scottsdale AZ Monthly Weather
Sunny and warm year-round, with mild winters and hot summers.
- January: Mild days, cool nights.
- February: Pleasant days, chilly nights.
- March: Warming days, cool nights.
- April: Sunny days, mild nights.
- May: Hot days, warm nights.
- June: Very hot days, warm nights.
- July: Extremely hot days, warm nights.
- August: Extremely hot days, warm nights.
Scottsdale's dry climate and abundant sunshine make it a popular destination for outdoor activities all year round.
January: Mild days, cool nights.
January in Scottsdale is characterized by mild and sunny days, with cool nights. Average daily temperatures range from a low of 42°F (5°C) to a high of 63°F (17°C). While the days are generally pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities, the nights can get chilly, so it's advisable to pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.
January is typically the coldest month in Scottsdale, but it's important to note that the weather can be unpredictable. Occasionally, a cold front can bring temperatures down to freezing, especially at night. However, these cold spells are usually short-lived, and temperatures quickly rebound to more comfortable levels.
One of the best things about January in Scottsdale is the abundance of sunshine. The city averages over 7 hours of sunshine per day during this month, making it an ideal time to explore the many outdoor attractions that Scottsdale has to offer, such as hiking trails, golf courses, and botanical gardens.
Additionally, January is a great time to visit Scottsdale for cultural and culinary events. The city hosts several festivals and events during this month, including the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and the Scottsdale Culinary Festival.
Overall, January is a wonderful time to visit Scottsdale, offering a pleasant blend of mild days and cool nights, along with plenty of sunshine and opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural events.
February: Pleasant days, chilly nights.
February in Scottsdale offers a delightful blend of pleasant days and chilly nights. Average daily temperatures range from a low of 44°F (7°C) to a high of 67°F (19°C). The days are typically warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golf. However, the nights can get cool, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater for the evenings.
February is generally a dry month in Scottsdale, with little rainfall. This makes it an ideal time to visit for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about rain. The clear skies also provide excellent opportunities for stargazing.
One of the highlights of February in Scottsdale is the annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show. This prestigious event showcases some of the finest Arabian horses in the world and attracts visitors from around the globe. The show features competitions, exhibitions, and educational programs, making it a must-see event for horse enthusiasts and anyone interested in Arabian culture.
February is also a great time to visit Scottsdale for culinary delights. The city's many restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Southwestern fare to international dishes. Additionally, February marks the start of the Scottsdale Culinary Festival, a month-long celebration of food and wine that features cooking demonstrations, tastings, and special events.
Overall, February is a wonderful time to visit Scottsdale, offering pleasant days, cool nights, and a variety of activities and events to suit all tastes.
March: Warming days, cool nights.
As Scottsdale transitions from winter to spring, March brings warmer days and cool nights. Average daily temperatures range from a low of 48°F (9°C) to a high of 73°F (23°C). This makes March an ideal time to visit Scottsdale, as the weather is comfortable for both outdoor and indoor activities.
- Blossoming desert:
One of the highlights of March in Scottsdale is the blooming desert. The city's iconic saguaro cacti begin to bloom in March, creating a stunning display of white flowers. Additionally, many other desert plants, such as wildflowers and ocotillos, also bloom during this time, transforming the desert into a colorful spectacle.
- Outdoor activities:
The warm and sunny days of March make it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities in Scottsdale. Hiking, biking, and golf are all popular choices, and there are many scenic trails and courses to choose from. Additionally, the city's many parks and gardens are also great places to relax and enjoy the beautiful weather.
- Cultural events:
March is a great time to experience Scottsdale's vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts a variety of events during this month, including art festivals, music concerts, and food festivals. Additionally, many of Scottsdale's museums and cultural attractions offer special programs and exhibits during March.
- Spring training baseball:
Baseball fans will be excited to know that March marks the start of spring training for Major League Baseball teams. Several teams, including the San Francisco Giants and the Colorado Rockies, hold their spring training in Scottsdale. This is a great opportunity to catch a game and see some of your favorite players in action.
Overall, March is a wonderful time to visit Scottsdale, offering warm and sunny days, cool nights, and a variety of activities and events to keep visitors entertained.
April: Sunny days, mild nights.
April in Scottsdale brings an abundance of sunshine and mild temperatures, making it an ideal time to enjoy all that the city has to offer. Average daily temperatures range from a low of 55°F (13°C) to a high of 80°F (27°C).
- Perfect weather for outdoor activities:
The warm and sunny days of April make it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golf. The city's many parks and trails offer scenic vistas and opportunities for exercise and relaxation. Additionally, April is a great time to visit Scottsdale's many golf courses, which offer challenging layouts and stunning desert scenery.
- Spring festivals and events:
April is a time of celebration in Scottsdale, with a variety of festivals and events taking place throughout the month. Some of the most popular events include the Scottsdale Arts Festival, which showcases the work of local and international artists, and the Scottsdale Culinary Festival, which features tastings, cooking demonstrations, and special events.
- Beautiful desert landscapes:
April is a great time to experience Scottsdale's stunning desert landscapes. The city is surrounded by mountains, canyons, and saguaro cacti, which create a unique and picturesque backdrop. Visitors can explore these landscapes on foot, by bike, or on horseback, and there are many guided tours available to help visitors discover the area's natural beauty.
- Pleasant evenings for outdoor dining:
The mild nights of April make it perfect for outdoor dining. Many of Scottsdale's restaurants offer patio seating, allowing visitors to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful desert surroundings. Additionally, there are many rooftop bars and lounges that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Overall, April is a wonderful time to visit Scottsdale, offering sunny days, mild nights, and a variety of activities and events to suit all tastes.
May: Hot days, warm nights.
May in Scottsdale marks the start of the hot season, with average daily temperatures ranging from a low of 67°F (19°C) to a high of 90°F (32°C). The days are typically hot and sunny, while the nights remain warm and pleasant.
- Prepare for the heat:
When visiting Scottsdale in May, it's important to be prepared for the hot weather. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear light and loose clothing, and seek shade during the hottest hours of the day. Additionally, sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
- Enjoy indoor attractions:
If you're looking for ways to escape the heat, Scottsdale has a variety of indoor attractions to choose from. The city's museums, art galleries, and shopping malls offer a cool and comfortable environment to explore. Additionally, there are many indoor activities available, such as bowling, laser tag, and escape rooms.
- Explore the desert after dark:
As the sun sets and the temperatures cool down, the desert comes alive. Take a guided night hike or visit one of Scottsdale's many stargazing spots to experience the beauty of the desert under the stars. Additionally, many of Scottsdale's restaurants and bars offer outdoor seating, allowing visitors to enjoy their meals or drinks while taking in the desert views.
- Attend a summer event:
May marks the start of Scottsdale's summer event season. The city hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the month, including music concerts, art shows, and food festivals. Check the city's events calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
Overall, May is a great time to visit Scottsdale, offering hot days, warm nights, and a variety of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained.
June: Very hot days, warm nights.
June is the hottest month in Scottsdale, with average daily temperatures ranging from a low of 79°F (26°C) to a high of 102°F (39°C). The days are typically very hot and sunny, with little humidity, while the nights remain warm and pleasant.
Due to the extreme heat, it's important to take precautions when visiting Scottsdale in June. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear light and loose clothing, and avoid spending too much time outdoors during the hottest hours of the day. Additionally, sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
If you're looking for ways to beat the heat, there are many indoor attractions and activities to choose from in Scottsdale. The city's museums, art galleries, and shopping malls offer a cool and comfortable environment to explore. Additionally, there are many indoor activities available, such as bowling, laser tag, and escape rooms.
For those who enjoy the heat, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in June. Early morning or late evening hikes are a great way to experience the desert without the intense heat of the midday sun. Additionally, Scottsdale has many waterparks and swimming pools where you can cool off and have fun.
Overall, June is a great time to visit Scottsdale, offering very hot days, warm nights, and a variety of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained.
July: Extremely hot days, warm nights.
July is the hottest month in Scottsdale, with average daily temperatures ranging from a low of 83°F (28°C) to a high of 105°F (40°C). The days are typically extremely hot and sunny, with little humidity, while the nights remain warm and pleasant.
- Extreme heat precautions:
Due to the extreme heat, it's important to take precautions when visiting Scottsdale in July. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear light and loose clothing, and avoid spending too much time outdoors during the hottest hours of the day. Additionally, sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
- Indoor attractions and activities:
If you're looking for ways to beat the heat, there are many indoor attractions and activities to choose from in Scottsdale. The city's museums, art galleries, and shopping malls offer a cool and comfortable environment to explore. Additionally, there are many indoor activities available, such as bowling, laser tag, and escape rooms.
- Waterparks and swimming pools:
For those who enjoy the heat, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in July. Early morning or late evening hikes are a great way to experience the desert without the intense heat of the midday sun. Additionally, Scottsdale has many waterparks and swimming pools where you can cool off and have fun.
- Summer festivals and events:
July is a great time to experience Scottsdale's vibrant summer festival scene. The city hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the month, including music concerts, art shows, and food festivals. Check the city's events calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
Overall, July is a great time to visit Scottsdale, offering extremely hot days, warm nights, and a variety of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained.
August: Extremely hot days, warm nights.
August is the second hottest month in Scottsdale, with average daily temperatures ranging from a low of 83°F (28°C) to a high of 104°F (40°C). The days are typically extremely hot and sunny, with little humidity, while the nights remain warm and pleasant.
- Extreme heat precautions:
Due to the extreme heat, it's important to take precautions when visiting Scottsdale in August. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, wear light and loose clothing, and avoid spending too much time outdoors during the hottest hours of the day. Additionally, sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
- Indoor attractions and activities:
If you're looking for ways to beat the heat, there are many indoor attractions and activities to choose from in Scottsdale. The city's museums, art galleries, and shopping malls offer a cool and comfortable environment to explore. Additionally, there are many indoor activities available, such as bowling, laser tag, and escape rooms.
- Waterparks and swimming pools:
For those who enjoy the heat, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in August. Early morning or late evening hikes are a great way to experience the desert without the intense heat of the midday sun. Additionally, Scottsdale has many waterparks and swimming pools where you can cool off and have fun.
- Summer festivals and events:
August is a great time to experience Scottsdale's vibrant summer festival scene. The city hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the month, including music concerts, art shows, and food festivals. Check the city's events calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
Overall, August is a great time to visit Scottsdale, offering extremely hot days, warm nights, and a variety of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained.
FAQ
If you have any questions about Scottsdale's monthly weather, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
Question 1: What is the hottest month in Scottsdale?
Answer: July and August are the hottest months in Scottsdale, with average high temperatures reaching 105°F (40°C) and 104°F (40°C), respectively.
Question 2: What is the coldest month in Scottsdale?
Answer: January is the coldest month in Scottsdale, with average low temperatures dropping to 42°F (5°C). However, daytime temperatures in January are typically mild and pleasant, with an average high of 63°F (17°C).
Question 3: When is the best time to visit Scottsdale?
Answer: The best time to visit Scottsdale depends on your preferences. If you prefer warm and sunny weather, the months from March to May and September to November are ideal. If you prefer cooler temperatures, the months from December to February are a good choice.
Question 4: What kind of clothes should I pack for a trip to Scottsdale?
Answer: The type of clothes you should pack for a trip to Scottsdale depends on the time of year you are visiting. In the summer months, pack light and loose clothing made from natural fibers like cotton and linen. In the winter months, pack layers of clothing so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
Question 5: Are there any special events or festivals that take place in Scottsdale during certain months?
Answer: Yes, Scottsdale hosts a variety of special events and festivals throughout the year. Some popular events include the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show in February, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival in March, and the Scottsdale Arts Festival in April.
Question 6: What are some outdoor activities that I can enjoy in Scottsdale during different months?
Answer: Scottsdale offers a variety of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed year-round. In the warmer months, popular activities include hiking, biking, swimming, and golf. In the cooler months, activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the desert are still enjoyable, but visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures.
Question 7: What are some indoor activities that I can enjoy in Scottsdale during different months?
Answer: Scottsdale has a variety of indoor attractions and activities to enjoy, regardless of the weather. Some popular indoor attractions include museums, art galleries, shopping malls, and indoor entertainment centers.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about Scottsdale's monthly weather. For more information, please visit the Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau website.
Now that you know more about Scottsdale's monthly weather, here are some tips for planning your trip:
Tips
Here are some practical tips to help you plan your trip to Scottsdale based on the monthly weather:
Tip 1: Check the weather forecast before you pack.
This will help you pack the appropriate clothing and gear for your activities. In the summer months, be sure to pack light and loose clothing made from natural fibers like cotton and linen. In the winter months, pack layers of clothing so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
Tip 2: Stay hydrated, especially in the summer months.
The heat in Scottsdale can be intense, so it's important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, as these can actually dehydrate you.
Tip 3: Plan your outdoor activities carefully.
During the hottest months of the year, it's best to avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the peak heat of the day. Instead, plan your activities for the early morning or late evening hours, when the temperatures are cooler.
Tip 4: Take advantage of Scottsdale's many indoor attractions.
Scottsdale has a variety of indoor attractions and activities to enjoy, regardless of the weather. Some popular indoor attractions include museums, art galleries, shopping malls, and indoor entertainment centers.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to Scottsdale, no matter what time of year you visit.
Scottsdale is a beautiful and vibrant city with something to offer visitors all year round. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway, Scottsdale has it all.
Conclusion
Scottsdale's monthly weather offers something for everyone, from warm and sunny days to cool and refreshing nights. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway, Scottsdale has it all.
Here's a summary of the main points to keep in mind when planning your trip to Scottsdale:
- Scottsdale has a hot desert climate, with mild winters and scorching summers.
- The hottest months are July and August, with average high temperatures reaching 105°F (40°C).
- The coldest month is January, with average low temperatures dropping to 42°F (5°C).
- The best time to visit Scottsdale depends on your preferences. If you prefer warm and sunny weather, the months from March to May and September to November are ideal. If you prefer cooler temperatures, the months from December to February are a good choice.
- Scottsdale offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, swimming, and golf, as well as many indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and shopping malls.
No matter when you choose to visit, Scottsdale is a beautiful and vibrant city that will leave you with lasting memories.
So start planning your trip to Scottsdale today and experience all that this amazing city has to offer!