Understanding Arizona Time Zones

Arizona can be surprisingly confusing when it comes to time zones. Most of the state does not observe Daylight Saving Time, meaning Arizona stays on Mountain Standard Time (MST) all year long. However, the surrounding states AND the Navajo Nation in Arizona DOES observe Daylight Saving Time which can create a one hour difference depending on when and where you are visiting.

Second Sunday in March to the First Sunday in November (when the rest of the USA is on Daylight Saving Time): During these dates Arizona, Nevada, and California share the same time. Arizona is one hour behind Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) in states like Utah and New Mexico and is two hours behind Central Daylight Time (CDT) in states like Texas and Colorado.

First Sunday in November to Second Sunday in March (when the rest of the USA switches back to Standard Time): Arizona returns to matching Mountain Standard Time (MST) so Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico are all on the same time. During these months. Arizona is one hour ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST) in states like California and Nevada and is one hour behind Central Standard Time (CST) in states like Colorado and Texas.

Navajo Nation note:
The Navajo Nation observes Daylight Saving Time. This only creates a time difference from mid-March to early November, when the Navajo Nation is one hour ahead of the rest of Arizona. From early November to mid-March, the Navajo Nation matches the rest of Arizona on MST. Popular tours near Page, Arizona like Antelope Canyon are often scheduled in Navajo Nation time.

Always double check the time zone for any tours, rentals, or activities you book. Confirmation emails sometimes list time in Navajo Nation time and sometimes in Arizona state time so many visitors show up an hour early or an hour late without realizing the difference. Pay close attention when planning so you don’t miss your reservation or flights. I personally missed a tour at Antelope Canyon once because of this so it happens all the time!