Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
Some of the most stunning natural attractions in the entire country can be found in Arizona. Tucson’s Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a prime example of such a natural marvel. This picturesque route is not only beautiful to look at, but it also provides drivers with a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable adventure. The Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a favorite among both visitors and locals due to its 27-mile length and 6,000-foot elevation increase.
Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway can be found in the Coronado National Forest, namely in the Santa Catalina Mountains. The route begins in the dusty landscape surrounding Tucson and winds its way up into the verdant mountain woods. The path is well-known for its breathtaking views of the scenery along the way. The route is so beautiful that the US Department of Transportation has classified it as a National Scenic Byway.
The journey starts at an elevation of 3,000 feet, near the mountain’s base. You’ll feel the temperature falling gradually as you gain altitude. The temperature drops, the humidity rises, and the landscape transforms significantly. You’ll be traveling across a number of ecological zones, each with its own special plants and animals. In contrast to the pine and fir trees that cover the upper sections of the mountain, cacti, mesquite, and palo verde trees dominate the lower portions of the mountain.
As you near the peak of Mount Lemmon, you’ll come upon the picturesque village of Summerhaven. Tourists flock to this sleepy community for the charming stores, restaurants, and cabins it offers. In the early 20th century, the people of Tucson sought refuge from the city’s sweltering summers by constructing this village. Summerhaven has developed into a popular tourist attraction and winter sports destination.
At the peak of Mount Lemmon, visitors will find the Mount Lemmon Observatory, another popular stop along the journey. The University of Arizona runs one of the world’s most cutting-edge observatories for astronomy study. Guided tours of the facility provide visitors with information on cutting-edge research in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics.
The Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway provides more than just a beautiful drive through the desert landscape. Several people visit the mountain to engage in activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Trails of varying degrees of difficulty lead to stunning vistas of the landscape. There are a number of campgrounds on the mountain, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to get up and personal with the wonders of nature.
The Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is frequented by nature lovers for more than only its hiking and camping opportunities. In the summer, it is not uncommon to see magnificent hummingbirds, one of more than 200 species that make their home on the mountain. Along the trail, guests can stop for a picnic, cast a line, or ride a horse.
The Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that has something to offer every type of traveler. It doesn’t matter if you’re a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or a nature lover; this drive will leave you with unforgettable memories. The road is accessible all year, but it sees its highest volume of visitors in the summer when Tucsonans are trying to escape the sweltering heat of the desert.
For those in Tucson, Arizona, the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway is an absolute must. Visitors of all ages will be delighted and inspired by this picturesque drive’s breathtaking scenery, quaint village, and abundance of recreational opportunities. Be ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget, and load up the car.