The Snowflake Arizona Temple is the second temple built in Arizona and the 108th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located on Temple Hill in Snowflake, Arizona, the temple overlooks the surrounding community from a cedar-covered bluff. Its intimate size, pioneer heritage, and peaceful setting make it one of the most beloved temples in the American Southwest.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Snowflake Arizona Temple during the April 2000 General Conference on April 2, 2000. The announcement fulfilled the hopes of generations of Latter-day Saints whose pioneer ancestors had settled the area in the late 1800s with dreams that a temple would someday be built there.
Groundbreaking services were held on September 23, 2000, with Elder Rex D. Pinegar presiding. During the ceremony, local leaders reflected on the faith of the early settlers who established Snowflake despite difficult frontier conditions. Construction moved quickly, and the temple welcomed visitors during a 14-day public open house from February 2–16, 2002 before its dedication.
President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on March 3, 2002, making it the 108th dedicated temple of the Church. The temple serves members throughout northeastern Arizona and portions of western New Mexico, including many members living on Native American reservations.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Snowflake Arizona Temple's most distinctive features is its location atop Temple Hill, a cedar-covered knoll overlooking the town. To construct the temple, engineers removed approximately eight feet from the top of the hill, allowing the two-level building to be partially set into the hillside while preserving the surrounding landscape. A rustic water feature welcomes visitors on the lower parking level.
The temple contains approximately 18,621 square feet and features two progressive instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry. Its exterior is finished with two tones of imported polished granite quarried in China, while a 60-foot single spire topped with the angel Moroni rises above the building. The temple shares its core floor plan with the Winter Quarters Nebraska Temple, although each temple has its own unique architectural character.
Inside, the temple celebrates the culture and history of the region. Native American influences can be seen in handcrafted rugs, pottery, baskets, and decorative artwork representing the area's rich heritage. In 2017, the original Angel Moroni statue was replaced and reoriented to face the temple entrance rather than the rear of the building.
Visiting the Temple
The Snowflake Arizona Temple is located at 1875 West Canyon Drive in Snowflake, Arizona. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. Temple clothing rental is not available, so patrons are encouraged to bring their own clothing. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the peaceful temple grounds and panoramic views from Temple Hill.
Fun Facts
- Second temple built in Arizona.
- 108th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on April 2, 2000.
- Groundbreaking held on September 23, 2000.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on March 3, 2002.
- Public open house lasted 14 days.
- Built on a 7.5-acre site.
- Approximately 18,621 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with two-tone polished granite from China.
- Located atop Temple Hill overlooking Snowflake.
- The Angel Moroni statue was replaced and reoriented in 2017.
Final Thoughts
The Snowflake Arizona Temple stands as a testament to the faith of Arizona's early Latter-day Saint pioneers. Its beautiful hilltop setting, thoughtful architecture, and connection to the region's pioneer and Native American heritage make it a unique and meaningful place of worship. Whether you're attending an ordinance or simply admiring the peaceful grounds, the Snowflake Arizona Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
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