Welcome to the Coronado National Forest

Rose Canyon Lake

Rose Canyon Lake is the only lake in the Santa Catalina District that is managed for recreational fishing. It is relatively small (7 acres) and is tucked away in a picturesque stand of mature ponderosa pines high on the slopes of the Santa Catalina Mountains. A paved road through Rose Canyon Campground leads to a small parking area a short walk from the water. Anglers fish in the lake throughout the summer, though rainbow trout are stocked only during the cooler months of the season. Fish large enough to catch and take home generally are released in the lake about once a month from early May through the end of June, when water temperatures become a little too warm for these cold water fish. In mid-September, stocking resumes after water temperatures moderate a bit and continues for another couple of months.  All stocking and fishing regulations for Rose Canyon lake, as well as all the other lakes within the Coronado are managed by Arizona Game and Fish.  To check on current stocking or regulations please click on the following link.  Fishing in Arizona

This is a beautiful place, and many people come here to enjoy the other features that it offers in addition to fishing. Tall trees and rocky slopes line the shore and are reflected in the lake’s sheltered waters. Rose Canyon Lake Trail #37 leads around the water’s edge and provides good opportunities for photography, bird watching, and just plain strolling. A few downed logs close to the water provide good places to sit and enjoy a snack or a bit of quiet meditation.

Location: Northeast of Tucson, between mile posts 17 and 18 on the Catalina Highway.

Elevation: 7,000 feet.

Access: From Tucson, drive northeast on Tanque Verde Road to the Catalina Highway . Continue 17 miles into the Santa Catalina Mountains to the Rose Canyon Campground turnoff. Follow the access road through the campground to the parking lot at the turnaround. From the parking lot, hike a quarter mile down to the lake.

Season: April 15 through October 15 

Attractions:
Stocked rainbow trout
Scenic alpine lake
Cool, forested setting
Lakeshore trail Amphitheater
Nearby campground/picnic area
Interpretive programs

Facilities:
Nearby campground and picnic area  (click here for campground details)
with picnic tables and fire grills
Group day use areas
Toilets and drinking water

Notes:
No boats.
No swimming.
No camping at the lake.
No fires.
Dogs must be on a leash.

Arizona Game and Fish regulations apply. A valid fishing license and trout stamp are required.

Lake Parking Lot fee is $8.00 per day.
For further information contact: Santa Catalina Ranger District.