Such a beautiful experience! So many different sites on the hour and a half up to the top of the mountain. This is perfect for those who want to see the World and the different terrain of Arizona. It changes so frequently it's unbelievable! read more

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One of the most beautiful places to hike ! Summerhaven is the so much fun to shop and eat . Highly recommend. read more

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I went to Tucson with the intention of riding my bicycle up Mt Lemmon, and it did NOT disappoint! The climb is about 25 miles, at a fairly steady 5% grade. The views are spectacular. Traffic is light and for the most part courteous. There is no water available until the top of the climb at Bigelow campground and Palisades Visitor Center. If you keep going until you reach Summerhaven, you can get delicious cookies at Mt Lemmon Cookie Cabin! read more

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Awesome scenic drive that takes you to the top. Lots of places to pull over and take in the views. If you are into hiking and camping, there are also plenty of opportunities for that, although we just spent a few hours enjoying the drive. Great place to check out if you are in the area. Just remember to gas up before you head up, as there are no gas stations in summerhaven. I'd definitely recommend checking out Mt Lemmon at least once! read more

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Beautiful hiking spot! We chose to do a short 2 mile hike. It was a bit of a drive along a windy road alongside the mountain to get to the parking area for the hike, so definitely not a drive for the faint of heart. Drive itself was scenic, with large boulders and greenery to admire. I'm a hiker and I would say the hike was relatively steep. Didn't need hiking shoes or sticks, but do watch your footing because the dirt path has imbedded rocks and may be slippery with the loose gravel. Gotta have a good balance or you're gonna roll off the hill onto the trees and rocks below! Ample shade. Pretty windy when you get to the top. There is a viewpoint where you can see the other mountainside. It was simply stunning. A handful of woodpeckers going about their business looking for food. Saw one squirrel jumping from tree top to tree top. We loved the little general store, gift shops, and eateries up there. A bit pricey, but fun trying out the menu. read more

Mt Lemmon - View from the top of the mountain - Hiking Near Me

A nice getaway! An excellent place to camp and cool off from the hot weather. In Mt. Lemmon, there are scenic view lookouts, hiking trails, camping, lakes, and a small town to visit. I love seeing pine trees and being close to nature. I recommended driving to Mt. Lemmon and explore! read more

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Every time I make the short hour jaunt up to Mt. Lemmon I regret not going more often. I've been about 4 times. If you're just going for a scenic drive, stopping at the vista viewing point is worth a quick walk out the edge for the stunning views. As far as trails go, the first trail we did was Butterfly trail, definitely intermediate, much tougher on the way back up. We've also gone up to the top and done the Meadow Trail a few times, also tough at certain points. I haven't been impressed with the markers on Mt. Lemmon's trails, I recommend you take a GPS or just a pick up a trail map at one of the visitors centers or online. I am rarely that prepared and always seem to make it back to the trail heads ok. On my latest visit we stayed in a beautiful Air BnB in Summerhaven, we didn't do much but enjoy being cozy eating, drinking, and playing board games all weekend. Our "cabin" was 3 stories and had plenty of space for 10 people. We hauled most of our meals up since there aren't too many dining or grocery options. We paid $85 each for two nights. Not too bad! Definitely worth a look at Air BnB if you are thinking about a stay. read more

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1600th review! What better way to celebrate than to review Mt. Lemmon. It's an ideal place for many since it's a versatile sightseeing spot. For those that only want to sightsee and take in the natural splendor of the mountain, there are multiple view stops along the way to the top. It's a beautiful drive up and you get to see how the geology and plant life change as you go further up in elevation, eventually transforming from a rocky desert climate to a green forested paradise. For those that want to camp out, there are a few camp sites available at various points on the mountain. Here are also a few picnic spots too. My favorite one is on Inspiration Rock. You can do a fair amount of hiking too if you want, and the trails I went on were dog friendly. I had a friend who recently went on an extensive hike here and saw all sorts of fascinating wildlife, including lizards and wild turkeys! When you reach the top you find the quaint town of Summerhaven. There's a small selection of restaurants, a gift store, and a few cabin rentals available. The temperature and crisp mountain air are the main attractors for me. It's not too bad of a drive from the Phoenix area. I think it takes us about 2 hours to get to Summerhaven from where we live. For us it's an ideal spot since it's not too far of a drive and a more secluded, less populated destination than Flagstaff but still has cooler weather. read more

Mt Lemmon - 1300th photo! Lovely view from Inspiration Rock at Mt. Lemmon - Hiking Near Me

What a hidden gem, hiding in plain sight right in the heart of Tucson! Okey, maybe not the heart, on the outskirt, but definitely still in Tucson! I have been to Tucson numerous of times. Lived about 50miles East of Tucson for almost half a year, and yet, had no idea about this place until a nice bartender from here told me about it. It takes about 15-20mins to get to the base of the mountain from downtown, depends on traffic. Once you get here, you have 3 options to explore: hiking, biking, or driving. I didn't have time or know what to expect for the first 2 options, so I opted for the latter. Damn glad I did too. I definitely want to come back and ride a bike up to the top of the mountain. It'll be one heck of a work out, especially when I could already feel the pain of those bikers when i was passing them lol. Hiking is not recommended during the hot summer time. You'll be flaming up or passing out half way there if you're not well prepared or conditioned for it. The incline is high and elevation goes up to over 8000ft. The road from the base to the top of the mountain is well paved out. I felt like I was driving on one of those roads you see in Hollywood movies. Drive very carefully and look out for bikers, hikers, the road curves and wraps around the mountain dangerously. Give yourself about an hour if you're planning on driving there. That should be enough time to get out, explore and take a few pictures. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous. More than half way to the top, you wouldn't even feel like you're in the middle of a big city or even a dessert anymore. The whole place up top is covered with trees, some flowers, and snow even in the fall. Depends on what time of year you go, be prepared for the 20-25 degrees temperature drop. It's a wonderful getaway spot from the heat and the busy, crowded city. read more

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Fantastic scenic drive from desert floor to mountain top, a difference of 8,000+ feet in elevation. Amazing vistas that can be enjoyed at appointed viewing locations. Make sure you have a full tank of gas and your vehicle is working properly so you don't overheat or breaks go out. Take your time to see the sights, noting the speed limit is 35mph. Bring your own toilet paper in case it's been used up at the public restrooms. read more

If you love the outdoors you will love Mt. Lemmon! Not only does it offer great hiking, but lots of photo opportunities as well! There are a couple of shops on the very top (Summer Haven) but we recommend that you pack your own lunch/snacks as your options will be pretty limited. Happy Exploring! @gorgeous.george2020 read more

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Took a nice drive up to Mt. Lemmon and Summerhaven on Saturday to get away from the 100 degree heat in Tucson. The temperature at 8400 elevation was mid 60s and was a welcome relief from the screaming hot temperatures we left behind at 3000. It was a curvy drive that we had to share with several bicyclists. Several opportunities all along way to stop, hike, have a picnic or just take in the view. This was our first time visiting the park and found people to be respectful of social distancing. The restrooms were locked and there wasn't anywhere to use the facilities. Not sure what the answer is to that problem, but the thought of how unsanitary that will be if the park continues to be "closed" would make me reconsider visiting, and just maybe that's the whole point. We will return once the park is officially open. We would love to try one of the restaurants in Summehaven. read more

Mt Lemmon - Spectacular view - Hiking Near Me

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Always a beautiful drive and nice little cool getaway from the heat or to go up on a nice fall drive and see all the changing colors. It's snows usually a few times a winter as well. A couple of good resturants as well or pack a lunch! read more

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Mountainness: 5 Stars. It is a mountain. Lemons: 1 Star. Not one lemon. Will have to bring my own next time. I split the difference, 3 Stars. read more

My first real visit to Tucson was a hike of Butterfly Trail on Mount Lemmon! I was like a kid in a candy store on the drive to the trailhead and I was so in awe by the cyclists. I am not good with incline hikes, and I have exercise induced asthma... my friend told me the trail would be at about an 8,000 foot elevation. I brought my inhaler, but it did not work- I was worried I wouldn't be able to do the hike. I put my buff on at the beginning, so that my lungs could adjust and just took my time. The trail was beautiful, and I really want to do the whole 5.2 mile trail next time. We ended up hiking about 4.7 miles altogether. We rarely ran into other hikers on our way in, but we were warned about some angry hornets as the hikers we encountered were stung a few times. We just waited a few minutes for the hornets to calm down and then went by really fast- no stings! There were weeping rocks all over the place, so much greenery, random worms and caterpillars too. We saw a baby horned lizard, two squirrels and a nest of lady bugs- is that what they'd be called? I am an Arizona native, but I don't venture far from my area. I had no clue Tucson was a place to go to escape the heat- it was over 30 degrees cooler on Mt Lemmon! I really cannot wait to go back, finish this trail and explore some others. read more

Mt Lemmon - Took this picture on my hike of Butterfly Trail. - Hiking Near Me

When most think of Tucson snow does not come to mind... but come winter time Mt Lemmon can satisfy some of your snow cravings and is only a short 45 minute drive from the city. Sure the snow isn't the most perfect powder but good enough for being so near by. During the spring/summer Mt Lemmon is the perfect spot for hiking and camping. Many look-out points along the drive up to let you take in the breathtaking view of the city of Tucson. Once to the top in Summerhaven, there are a few restaurants to eat at and numerous cabins to rent out. There is an observatory at the peak of the mountain as well. Although Mt Lemmon used to be nicer, the fires of 2003 caused a lot of damage which was never restored to it's original. Either way, drive up Catalina Highway and continue on until you reach this beautiful Tucson treasure. read more

I LOVE Mt Lemmon! I have frequented the Peppersauce Caverns many times in these mountains. I have also camped there quite a few times and have always had a great time. There is an abundance of wildlife and the caves are magnificent. If you make it to the caves you must visit The Big Room The Book Room The Lake Make sure to bring plenty of water, some snacks, flashlights and extra batteries. This is a self guided cave. read more

Mt Lemmon - Found this gila monster wandering across the dirt road on Mount Lemmon :D - Hiking Near Me

Camping mt. Lemmon was a wonderful experience and very fun. It's always nice to get away from the city and the heat. We did Marshalls Gulch early in the am. The trail is an easy 4 mile hike, easy to low moderate. We did the hike with out little pug and he rocked it. The trail is well maintained, amazing views throughout the hike. It also has several streams and it smells forresty. We started Marshalls gulch and followed the Aspen trail head. It has great areas to stop and admire the views, eat an orange or trail mix and just forget about the world. We will definitely do this one again. Highly recommended. read more

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A long and winding road .......... pull off at viewing vistas to break up the drive. Watch out for the crazy suicidal bicyclists .... nutso. Amazing views as you climb in elevation. The actual ski area is super small. Bring your own drinks and snacks and a chair to sit and enjoy the views. Nice break from the desert. read more

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Tucson is lucky to have this gem. In the summers the weather here is a good cool down from the desert heat. In the winter it's a snowy wonderland. Crazy roads going up, but once you're at the top it's one hell of the view. My favorite thing is Ski Valley in the fall. Not too hot, not too cold. Just perfect. It feels like you're in a different state! A must visit when you're in the tucson area. read more

Mt Lemmon - Hiking Near Me

Beautiful scenic drive up My. Lemmon. Note: there are no gas stations at the top of Mt. Lemmon so fill up before you go! If traveling in a Motorhome, know that parking is limited. Still well worth the scenic drive and Summerhaven is a cute little town. We hiked Soldier Trail, which was difficult but beautiful: http://www.pocketfuloftreasures.net/2018/10/hiking-soldier-pass.html?m=1 read more

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OMG 9 mile hike kinda wanted to kill myself. Some of the views were BEAUTIFUL, but really the mediocre review is simple for the massive amounts of rocks on the trail. Was tough....or maybe the 3 stars is more about my finesse/fitness. I'm sure if I had have been more prepared it would have been a better experience. Some of the bathrooms on the trails are horrendous (I'm looking at you Gulch trail), but other's aren't too bad. Use the one at the community center anyway; nice and clean. Did some convoluted loop starting at the power generators by the ski resort, down to Sutherland, across the Mt. Lemmon trail, over the Wilderness in the Rocks (or something of the sort), and then back up the other Mt. Lemmon trail straight up for 2 miles. That was rough. Also got caught in a bit of a storm with lightening, so that wasn't too fun, but managed to make it out alright. EVERYBODY along the trail was super friendly! Ok, I convinced myself to give it 4 stars! It's beautiful, and make sure you go out to the Mt. Lemmon Lookout! read more

This is as close to the woods as you'll get out here. The temperature drops significantly up on the mountain, so it's a great place to go to cool down. Plenty of places to climb and hike too. read more

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WTF People, the last time I was here was like when there was hella snow and i was like 6, before the Lodge burnt down, before it got too popular, and before the magic of a ski season had long since been a jaded ideal.. This place is so beautiful. We went up to collect fire wood, and while we were walking around thunderclouds rolled around us and brought us in to this eye of the storm sorta deal, and 300 foot towers of plasma wer blasting like BOOM, it rocked... But there is a lot of are to hike if your super adventurous, as in dont give an EFF about PARK BOUNDARIES and are not afraid of the green mountain fuzz.... PLus i found lots of super cool quartz, and even a small piece of marble, im sure you could find even sweeter rocks here.... read more

Great place to escape the hellish heat. Lots of hikes, look-outs, picnic tables and most importantly ....cool temperatures. Check out the babad lookout point and observatory. read more

Mt Lemmon - The rain is coming!!! - Hiking Near Me

I can't even start to explain the views and natural beauty of this mountain. If you're in the area, it's a must see. There's plenty of area to pull off and take pictures. Bring warmer clothes because there is a 15-25 degree temperature drop. read more

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This was an amazing drive up and exploring the mountain was amazing. It's a must do in Tucson! Do the app if you drive up and stop at the town and the rainbow shop. read more

This has to be the best place in all of Tucson. I highly recommend stopping at Windy Point, as the views from there are great. Summerhaven is very pretty as well, and I have enjoyed just walking through there and taking in the surroundings in the past. I really like going up here in the summer because it provides a reprieve from the heat. I definitely want to go up and actually do some hiking in the future! read more

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You don't even have to hike at Mt. Lemmon, just the drive up & back along the scenic Catalina Highway is stunning. Plan to stop at several of the roadside pullouts along the way for ever-changing but always stunning scenery. read more

Gorgeous scenic drive. Also, the temperatures at the top of the mountain were about 30-40 degrees cooler. This was a great way to escape the Arizona heat and witness 25 miles of beautiful scenery. Be sure to gas up, and bring a good camera... and possibly a sweater. read more

What a great 1/2 day drive...that you could easily stretch into a full day if you go for a hike on one of the many trails along the drive up. You'll first pass through an area dense with Saguaro cactus...then as you ascend, you'll see some great rock formations. Some look pretty scary as they are rock atop rock atop rock...and I'm not talking about little trail marker stones. These are huge boulders and stones. Being from California, the thought that an earthquake could easily dump the boulders onto your drive comes to mind. But not to worry, they been there for many, many years and still haven't tumbled over. Your drive will eventually take you into a region of pines. You'll be driving to over 8,000 ft in elevation so if you drive up in the winter and it is snowing (or might), you should carry chains if you're not in a 4x4. There are numerous view points along the drive. Near the top, the views change from the Tucson side to the back side. You may encounter some bicyclist riding up the road, so be watchful. Near the top, there is a restaurant if you're looking for something to eat/drink. I highly recommend the drive...you'll be glad you did! read more

Beautiful drive. Don't miss this Tucson drive. The desert version of Highway to Hana. Feels like you're on the road for a car commercial. At the top we went to the general store and got some great fudge. And jerky. read more

Mt Lemmon is a great ride whether you are riding up on a motorcycle, bicycle or driving up in your car. There are many places to stop and hike along the way. Just remember to get a day pass or annual pass to stop anywhere along the way. You do not need a pass to stop in Summerhaven or Ski Valley. read more

I just moved to Tucson a year ago and going to Mt Lemmon is one of my favorite things to do with my friends out here. I just turned 18 and my mom was super skeptical about me driving up a mountain without her but honestly the drive isn't bad. all the roads are railed and guarded and the drive is smooth. I've driven up there 3-4 times no problem. However cell phone reception is extremely hard to get!!!! I have sprint and about 3-6 miles up the mountain I have no service. Some of my friends with Verizon were able to keep a signal but once you are about 10-15 miles in service is completely gone. So if you need to keep in contact with your kids or family good luck lol read more

We camped at sycamore loop at rose canyon 7/22. Here's my recommendations. Buy a canopy! The Temps got up to 89 and without the canopy it would have been miserable. I bought an ozark trails canopy at Walmart for $45. Best deal by far. It saved us. We hiked at butterfly trail, about 3 miles total. Bring water!!! Although it's 75 at 9 am, I got sunburn on my neck and shoulders. read more

Mt Lemmon is a place that you should know about. The drive up is beautiful. You go through a change of terrain that is absolutely spectacular. Of course as the terrain changes, so does the weather. Plan accordingly and know that the weather from top to bottom varies by 20 degrees. Take advantage of the vantage points along the way for some beautiful lookouts. Once to the top, Summerhaven is a beautiful down with some homes and restaurants that you may want to check out. Personally I love to pack a picnic lunch and then explore hiking. Going all the way to the end of the road in Summerhaven, there are some picnic tables. Go left or right for some great little hiking trails. Before you get to Summerhaven, there is also a ski area. More of a novelty thing if you ski or board, but fun to say that you can ski/board an hour away from Tucson. During the summer you can ride up the lift. My tip for the lift? Don't wear flip flops. I have seen many a people walk away from the lift in the summer with one shoe. Don't be those people. Enjoy your trip to Mt Lemmon and Tucsonans, I know your first trip won't be your last! read more

Spent the day at Mt. Lemmon this past Labor Day weekend. Great time had by all. Driving up the mountain feeling the weather get cooler and cooler was the first great experience.Then we stopped at Windy Point to take pictures and experience the vortex energy. Had lunch in the alpine village of Summerhaven while listening to Music on the Mountain. I highly recommend taking the Window 2 Heaven adventure tour because they show you everything that you might miss otherwise. See their website Window2Heaven.net. read more

Beautiful! What a scenic, but semi-frightening, drive up the mountain side. We had a great hike to the lake and back to our cabin. Would love to go again and try other trails. read more

want a week end to go to ski at Mount Lemmon ? or hiking ? or just resting ? housing avalaible in Tucson - 1 hour driving to the station : 1 bedroom/1 bath - fully equiped - nothing to bring with you except your skiing stuff ! - everything provided : bedding, towel baths, full kitchen (toaster, coffe maker, plates, dishes, pans, etc...) - complex with laundry, hot tub, pool & fitness room - walking distance from restaurants and grocery stores - close to UofA - downtown 10 min drinving or bus station at walking distance - sleeping = 1 full bed, 1 sofa, 1 full airbed, 1 twin airbed (total sleeping = 5 persons - 100 $/week end - 60 $ one day/one night from monday to thursday - please ask for check in/out time on desired days - contact : tucson06@live.fr read more