Self Guided Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Driving Tour

Experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert like never before on our Self-Guided Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Tour! In the comfort of your own vehicle, we'll take you on a journey through the breathtaking scenery of the Catalina Mountains, providing stunning views of the desert landscape as you climb to the summit of Mt. Lemmon. Turn your phone into a personal guide on this self-guided tour that shares fascinating insights into the area's geology, ecology, and history, including the unique wildlife that calls this area home. You'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning vistas at multiple stops, taking in the sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, our Self-Guided Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway Tour is a perfect choice. Book your tour today and discover the magic of this iconic Arizona destination! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*

1. 1

   Stop 1

   5 min

   This lovely overlook gives a sweeping vista of the Sonoran desert plain, Tucson, and the mountains beyond. Mount Lemmon is part of the Coronado National Forest. entry fee is $8/vehicle.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   5 min

   A pretty canyon that makes for a nice view, especially pretty when there’s water down in the creekbed.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   1 hour

   Hike down along an often-dry river and look for ancient grinding holes left by the Hohokam culture, used for turning acorns into flour.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   5 min

   Take in great views of nearby Thimble Peak as well as view a rushing cascade of waterfalls on the opposite side of the ravine, though they are dry much of the year. Good spot to see wildlife, too.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   30 min

   Windy Point Vista in Arizona offers travelers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges and canyons. Wait for sunset or just marvel at the beauty of the landscape below you.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   5 min

   Hoodoo Vista in Arizona offers travelers a unique and mesmerizing landscape of tall, thin rock spires (hoodoos) that have been formed by millions of years of erosion. Visitors can hike along the trail to get up close and experience the otherworldly beauty of these geological formations.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   1 hour

   Here you can hike to Barnam Rock and the further Leopold Point. San Pedro Vista in Arizona offers travelers a scenic overlook of the San Pedro River Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges. Visitors can enjoy the stunning panoramic views, go hiking along the trails, and spot wildlife in the area.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   5 min

   Stop here to use the restroom, ask the rangers questions, or perhaps buy a souvenir.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   5 min

   This peaceful spot was recently ravaged by wildfires. You can view the mountains far across the valley amid charred trunks of trees.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    5 min

    Find a picnic table and enjoy a relaxing bite amid tall pines, with chirping birds and views of the San Pedro valley far, far below.

11. 11

    Stop 11

    1 hour

    In season, January through early February, you can actually enjoy skiing here, but the chairlift operates year-round, whisking you to the summit in about 15 minutes, where you can view near 360 degree vistas of Tucson, the San Pedro valley, or even as far as New Mexico.

12. 12

    Stop 12

    1 hour

    What this tiny hamlet lacks in size, it makes up for in heart: Grab tasty fudge, enjoy a giant, freshly made cookie, have a sit-down dinner, or find a nice trail to hike. It’s all here in quiet Summerhaven.

13. 13

    Stop 13

    3 hours

    This great loop hike offers incredible views and a nice, moderate, work-up-a-sweat hike for those looking to stretch their legs for a while.

14. 14

    Stop 14

    30 min

    This placid, pine-rimmed lake is sometimes so calm it mirrors the sky, offering insight and reflection or perhaps just a nice photo or two. You can snack near the shore, walk around the edge, or even fish if you’ve got a license and rod.

15. 15

    Stop 15

    5 min

    Geology Vista offers travelers a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the geological formations of the surrounding area. Visitors can see how different layers of rocks and sediments have been shaped over time to create the beautiful and diverse landscape, and learn about the geological history of the region.

16. 16

    Bug Springs Trail

    30 min

    Bug Spring Trailhead in Arizona offers travelers a picturesque hiking trail that takes them through a dense forest of tall pine trees, past a refreshing mountain spring, and up to the summit of the nearby mountain peak. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and possibly spot some wildlife. A fun hike for folks who want one last chance to get out of the car and onto a trail for a while.

17. 17

    Stop 17

    5 min

    Get in some good camping! Open from October to April, and there are restrooms.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please note that while some areas of Mount Lemmon offer accessibility features, such as designated accessible parking spaces and curb ramps at scenic stops , the mountainous terrain and limited public transportation options may pose challenges for travelers with specific accessibility needs.
• Travelers must have a smartphone compatible with the Shaka Guide app.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.