Santa Catalina Mountains

Rising steeply on Tucson’s north side, the Santa Catalina Mountains are the city’s most prominent range, with the highest average elevation and a peak height of 9,147 feet at Mount Lemmon. Part of the Coronado National Forest, the Santa Catalinas are a favorite destination for outdoor adventure – from Sonoran Desert trails at the base to pine-covered slopes at the summit. Thanks to the scenic Catalina Highway, it's easy to explore the full range of ecosystems by car in just over an hour. As you climb from 2,000 to over 9,000 feet, the landscape transforms so dramatically it’s often compared to a road trip from Mexico to Canada – all without leaving southern Arizona.

Things To Do

The Santa Catalina Mountains offer a laid-back mix of adventure, scenery, and fresh mountain air. Start at the base with a stroll through Catalina State Park or a tram ride into Sabino Canyon Recreation Area – both great spots for hiking, birdwatching, and taking in the stunning Sonoran Desert landscapes. Sandwiched between the two, Pusch Ridge Wilderness offers steeper trails and sweeping views for those wishing to break a sweat. Further to the east, Catalina Highway winds its way up to Mount Lemmon, where the desert gives way to shady forests and crisp alpine air. It’s a favorite for road cyclists, but alongside the highway, you’ll also find mountain biking trails, rock climbing routes, forest hikes, and camping sites. Anglers can cast a line in quiet mountain lakes, birders can spot everything from hummingbirds to hawks, and once the sun goes down, the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter offers some of the region’s best stargazing. During the winter months, Mount Lemmon’s snowy peaks transform into the southernmost ski destination in the United States – offering a taste of winter just an hour from the desert floor.

Landscape of Santa Catalina Mountain scaled with green brush and saguaro cacti. Above is a bright blue sky with clouds peaking above the mountain range

Where to Stay

You’ll find many of Tucson’s most iconic resorts nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, including El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort; Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa; Loews Ventana Canyon Resort; Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge; and Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort. Additional overnight options include the charming Mt. Lemmon Lodge or sleeping under the stars at one of the many campsites along Catalina State Highway or within Catalina State Park.

Trails

Home to one of the most extensive trail systems in Tucson, the Santa Catalinas offer hikes for every skill level – whether you're looking for a short outing or a multi-day backcountry adventure. Choose from desert trails, alpine routes, or ambitious treks that span both, featuring steep elevation gains and breathtaking views.

Easy

Sabino Walkway Loop (2.3 miles): This easy loop follows the paved Upper Sabino Canyon Road before veering off into a quieter stretch of desert. It’s a great way to experience scenic canyon views and desert flora, all within a short, accessible hike. |
Mount Lemmon Meadow Loop (2.1 miles): Immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of Mt. Lemmon’s aspen groves on this gentle hike that winds its way to a scenic ridgeline, boasting sweeping views of the Santa Catalinas, the Tucson valley, and the distant Santa Ritas.
Catalina Nature Trail (1 mile): Perfect for the whole family, this short desert hike offers great views of the canyon and surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll find benches for breaks and educational signs highlighting local wildlife tracks. In the spring, the trail comes alive with colorful wildflowers.

woman standing next to a man in a wheelchair in the desert at Sabino Canyon Tucson

Sabino Canyon Walkway Loop

Moderate

Linda Vista Loop Trail (2.6 miles): A favorite among hikers and horseback riders, this scenic loop at the base of the Santa Catalinas offers a moderate climb with sweeping views of rugged mountains and classic desert landscapes.
Romero Pools Trail (6.1 miles): Located in Catalina State Park, this popular moderate hike winds through Sonoran Desert terrain before reaching a seasonal stream and natural swimming hole. With its steady incline and refreshing pools, it’s a great choice for both adventure and relaxation.
Blackett's Ridge Trail (6.5 miles): Rising above Bear Canyon Road in Sabino Canyon, this trail climbs a steep, narrow ridge with sheer drop-offs and stunning views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape.

desert landscape with natural overgrown brush. A narrow dirt trail sits between the brush

Romero Pools Trail

Hard

Finger Rock to Pima Canyon Trail (10.6 miles): This point-to-point trek links two of Tucson’s most scenic canyons, offering dramatic elevation gains and breathtaking views along the way. It’s a challenging route that rewards hikers with sweeping vistas, rugged terrain, and a solid cardio workout – all framed by the striking beauty of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
Ventana Canyon Trail (13.6 miles): This hike begins at Loews Ventana Canyon Resort and follows a rugged, steep trail up Ventana Canyon. The trail’s payoff comes at the top: a striking natural rock arch that perfectly frames the valley far below.
Mount Lemmon Loop (8.4 mile): This challenging loop gains nearly 2,400 feet in elevation and rewards the effort with sweeping views of the valley, stretching from Mount Graham to Baboquivari Peak. In spring, the trail is dotted with colorful wildflowers, adding even more beauty to this high-country adventure.

woman hiking on a desert trail on Mount Lemmon