Snowshoeing at Mount Lemmon during Snowy Winters in Tucson
Snowshoeing at Mount Lemmon is a unique winter adventure that allows Tucson residents and visitors to embrace cooler weather in the typically warm desert climate. Located in the Santa Catalina Mountains, Mount Lemmon offers a rare opportunity for snow enthusiasts in southern Arizona to enjoy a slice of winter wonderland. With an average peak elevation of 9,159 feet, it receives enough snowfall most winters to transform it into a snowy retreat. Snowshoeing provides a serene way to explore the mountain's trails while taking in breathtaking alpine scenery, a stark contrast to the arid environment below.
Adventure Guide To Snowshoeing at Mount Lemmon
Summit Trails and Marshall Gulch Loop
One of the best areas for snowshoeing is the Marshall Gulch Trail, starting near the Summerhaven community. This trail offers gentle inclines, making it ideal for beginners while providing stunning views of snow-laden pines and panoramic vistas of southern Arizona. The loop connects to other trails, offering varied lengths for more seasoned adventurers.
Aspen Draw Trail
This route, located near the summit, is a favorite among seasoned snowshoers. It winds through dense forests of fir and aspen trees, covered in snow during winter, providing a tranquil and immersive experience. Be prepared for moderate inclines to fully enjoy this scenic trail.
Ski Valley Area
For those new to snowshoeing or traveling with family, the area around the Ski Valley parking lot is ideal. Open spaces here are perfect for casual outings, offering a safe environment for beginners to practice.
Local Insights
Snowshoeing on Mount Lemmon is a rare treat, considering Tucson’s desert-location reputation. What makes it special is the swift transition from warm desert landscapes to snowy alpine forests within a 60-90 minute drive.
The Santa Catalina range is named after Saint Catherine, reflecting the mountain’s historical and cultural significance since early Spanish exploration.
Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: January to February, after snowstorms.
What to Bring: Snowshoes (rentable in Tucson), waterproof gear, gloves, and layered clothing.
Getting There: Drive north from Tucson on Catalina Highway (approx. 70 minutes). Be cautious of chain requirements during heavy snow.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Gemma Serenity Gorokhoffa month ago
We visited on December 15th, 2024, and there was no snow to ski.
The infrastructure was turning, though, bringing people to the mountain top.
The weather was chilly (49F / 10C), and as you can see on the pictures, there were a few patches of snow.
We were at 8200 feet elevation (=2500 meters), so I would have thought that we may find more snow, especially in December.
Those who claim that climate change is a hoax haven't added the facts of global warming together just yet. Personally, I can see it and feel it for real.
Kelly Plasa week ago
Very diverse and beautiful drive up the Mt Lemmon Ski Valley. They were not open due to lack of snow, but very fun to see the southernmost US ski area. The local restaurant called Iron Door was not open but we will go back another day to check it out.
Jose Contreras5 months ago
Worth the drive up the mountain. AZ has done a great job with the route up the mountain with many lookout/view stops & many car pull outs to avoid congestion by slower vehicles. Go from 2300 feet in Tucson to almost 9,000 feet & about a 30 degree temperature difference. Take the ski lift for a really great view at the top! Enjoy pizza & cookies in the Cookie Cabin at Summerhaven.
Marygrace Stevens3 months ago
Absolutely loved the sky ride! It was very refreshing and cool to be in Tucson, and felt i was in a whole different place. Must come visit this place!!!! Beautiful and gorgeous views.
Andrew Barch3 weeks ago
Went in late December, 2024. No snow at all, but had the idea to take the chair lift to the top of the mountain to hike around, since the road to the top trailhead is closed in the winter (despite it being about 60F and not a drop of snow 😂).
Anyway, bought tickets at 2:20. Figured we’d be up the mountain in no time as the line was short. Turns out, they only load every 3rd chair. So it took fooooorever. Wasn’t up the mountain until about 3:15. Ugh.
Fortunately, we were able to get from the top of the chair lift to the fire lookout and back just before they stopped running for the night. We were literally the last party down.
So take away? If you’re utilizing the lift for hiking like us, just know it will take longer than you expect. I’d probably start up here (lift starts running at 11), then work your way down the mountain with the rest of your day. Or just walk the 1.5 miles down. Although given the steep angle I’d assume that would kill your knees.
Alright, final verdict is it’s fine. No views going up. Ok views coming down the lift.
