Coronado National Forest

Recreational Activities

Winter Sports

Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley

Few people think of snow and skiing when they think of Tucson. Cactus, desert, and diamondbacks more readily come to mind. The Santa Catalina Ranger District, however, is home to the southernmost ski area in the United States, which is perched near the 9,157-foot summit of Mt. Lemmon.

Ski runs are usually open from mid-December to early April, depending on winter weather and snowfall.

Located just an hour's drive from the sun-drenched resorts of Tucson, area visitors can golf and swim in Tucson, then downhill ski at Ski Valley, all in the same day.

Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley offers ski equipment rentals, instruction, the Iron Door Restaurant, a snack bar, and gift shop.

Overnight accommodations are available in the nearby village of Summerhaven.

The chair lift is in operation all year round, taking visitors to a high overlook from which they can enjoy views of the Santa Catalinas, the city of Tucson, the San Pedro Valley, the Reef of Rocks, and the distant mountains near Globe and Phoenix. These scenic views, combined with the many trails and overlooks in the area, and the Iron Door Restaurant make this a popular place to visit in any season.

Location: Northeast of Tucson at the end of the Catalina Highway.

Elevation: 8,200-9,150 feet (950 ft. vertical drop).
Season: Open year-round. Skiing is usually from mid-December to April, depending on snowfall. Always check current conditions before making the trip, or phone (520) 576-1400.

Prices: Please contact Ski Valley at (520) 576-1400 for current prices.

Forest Service Fees: Skiers who drive non-stop to and from Ski Valley do not pay the $5 Day Pass fee. If your ski trip includes stops at other recreation sites on Mt. Lemmon, however, you will need to purchase the Day Pass, which is available at the Moling Fee Station on the Catalina Highway at milepost 4.5, or at Palisades Visitor Center at milepost 19.5.

Attractions:
One hour from Tucson and the warm desert
Scenic drive
Summer "sky ride"

Facilities:
2 chair lifts
1 surface tow
200 acres
21 ski trails
Beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs
Lessons and rentals available
Restaurant, snack bar, gifts, beverages

Access: Take the Catalina Highway off Tanque Verde Road in Tucson. Drive 4.2 miles to the Forest boundary and continue 26 miles to the Ski Valley turnoff. Turn right and drive 1 mile to the ski area.

Road Conditions: The highway is paved and suitable for passenger vehicles. Following snowstorms, the road may be closed temporarily; snow tires, chains or 4WD may be required. For obtaining the most current road conditions, please call the Pima County Sheriff's 24 hour Road Condition Hotline 520-547-7510 (year round).