Features & Info: So much to do when making the trip up Mt Lemmon! First of all, VIEWS! The scenic byway up the mountain showcases incredible rocky mountain views as you watch desert landscape morph into lush pine forest. Mt Lemmon is 20-30 degrees cooler than the below desert, making it the great-escape from the Tucson heat.
- Mt Lemmon Cookie Cabin: Enjoy plate-sized melty cookies and pizza at this delightful cabin. A great pick-me-up after a scenic hike!
- Ski Valley: Even in the non-snow seasons you can still enjoy a soothing ride on the ski lift, taste homemade fudge, and eat at their restaurant! They even host an Oktoberfest in the fall! Check their website for events and snow status in the winter.
- SkyCenter: An observatory managed by the University of Arizona, and (2) of the largest telescopes available to the public! Book a night on their website for the best views of the stars!
- Hiking & Mountain Bike Trails: Beautiful weather and beautiful scenery! We recommend the “Sunset Trail” close to the top of the mountain for hiking and “Bugs Springs” for mountain biking. Here is a list of the top trails: https://www.alltrails.com/us/arizona/mount-lemmon–2
- Rose Canyon Lake: Check their website for open times. This serene lake is open for fishing, or for a picnic! Arizona does require a fishing license, you can pick one up at Walmart.
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recarea/?recid=25678