Mount Lemmon
Rising majestically above the Tucson skyline, Mount Lemmon is the tallest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains, nestled in the city’s northeastern range. Despite being only an hour’s drive from downtown Tucson via the picturesque and winding Catalina Highway, the summit feels a world away from the iconic Sonoran Desert landscapes below. This striking juxtaposition is why Mount Lemmon is often called a "sky island" – a secluded mountain range with a unique, high-altitude ecosystem.
At 9,157 feet, the summit is cloaked in a mixed-conifer forest, with aspen groves sprinkled throughout. The area also supports an array of distinctive wildlife, from black bears, foxes, and coatimundis to red-trailed hawks, violet green swallows, and broadtail hummingbirds.
No matter the season, a drive to Mount Lemmon is a must during your Tucson visit. As you ascend Catalina Highway, you'll be treated to countless picture-perfect moments, with sweeping views and Mother Nature’s beauty unfolding at every turn.
Here’s how to make the most of your trip:
When to Go
Mount Lemmon’s allure spans all seasons, each offering its own unique experience. In the summer, it serves as a welcome refuge from Tucson’s intense desert heat, with temperatures averaging 20-30 degrees cooler than the valley below. In the winter, the mountain undergoes a dramatic transformation as snow blankets the summit, turning the area into the southernmost ski resort in the United States. During the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall, Mount Lemmon dazzles with displays of wildflowers and the changing colors of autumn leaves. Fall also brings a unique celebration – Oktoberfest on the mountain, where you can enjoy food, music, dancing, and, of course, beer.
What to Do
Beyond its seasonal charm, Mount Lemmon’s rugged terrain and breathtaking views make it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise year-round. Whether you’re looking to hike its scenic trails, cycle the winding, paved Catalina Highway, or challenge yourself with mountain biking and rock climbing, there’s no shortage of adventure. For those who enjoy more leisurely pursuits, the area is perfect for fishing in its crystal-clear lakes or birding, where you might spot everything from majestic raptors to colorful hummingbirds. And don’t forget stargazing – Mount Lemmon is home to the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter, which boasts some of the largest public telescopes in the United States, offering spectacular views of the night sky.
Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of options that cater to a range of tastes and budgets. Several of Tucson’s premier resorts are located near the base of Mount Lemmon, including Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge, Westin La Paloma, and Hacienda del Sol – all just a short drive from the start of Catalina Highway. For a more immersive mountain experience, consider staying at Mount Lemmon Lodge or renting a cozy cabin.
Discover the wonders of Arizona’s “Sky Islands” region with the
Mt. Lemmon Science Tour App
Produced by the University of Arizona College of Science, the Tour engages users with the surprising natural science of Southern Arizona, from the enchanting Sonoran Desert to the "Sky Island" mountains on every horizon. Along with the audio tour, the app also includes informative slide shows and videos that visualize the science. Through science stories, the Mt. Lemmon Science Tour brings the wonders of this region alive while driving up the scenic byway.
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