Skiing Aspen Ridge at Mt. Lemmon (AZ) [1]
Can you imagine going snow-skiing on an 80-degree day? It’s not as far-fetched as you might think. Head to Arizona’s Sky Island Scenic Byway and you’ll discover Mt. Lemmon, a downhill skiing oasis in the Santa Catalina Mountains only an hour's drive from Tucson. Leave behind the cacti and the desert heat and spend a cool day in knee-deep powder snow in the heart of the Coronado National Forest.
Frosty Forest at Mt. Lemmon (AZ) [2]
Your adventure begins two-and-a-half miles from the northern end of the byway in the Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley. Explore a variety of runs at elevations ranging from 8,200 to 9,157 feet. Whatever your skill level, you’ll find a place somewhere on the mountain’s 21 runs or on the adrenaline-filled backcountry slopes bordering the Pusch Wilderness Area. As with most ski resorts, it’s important to watch the weather so you can plan your trip accordingly. Depending on snowfall, Mount Lemmon’s ski season can last from mid-December to April. The mountain receives over 200 inches of snow a year, and for ideal skiing conditions, head up a day or two after a major snowstorm and carve your way through glorious sheets of powdery snow.
Take one of Mt. Lemmon resort's three lifts to different points on the mountain, and enjoy expansive views of the snow-covered Santa Catalina Mountains, the city of Tucson, the San Pedro Valley, and the Reef of Rocks as you weave your way back down the mountain. If you’re new to skiing or looking to get back into it, you can rent your equipment at the resort shop and sign up for one of the daily classes for skiers of all levels. After a few hours on the slopes, sit down for a meal at the famous Iron Door Restaurant, or if you’re in a hurry to get back to the mountain, grab a bite to eat from the snack bar. You can extend your stay in the village of Summerhaven just outside the resort.
Snowy Trees on Mt. Lemmon (AZ) [4]
This winter, treat yourself to a getaway from the harsh desert climate below the Santa Catalina Mountains and embark on your own skiing adventure on Arizona’s Sky Island Scenic Byway. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the slopes or an extreme run with your buddies on more challenging terrain, Mount Lemmon promises an experience that will keep you coming back.
