Coronado National Forest: Sky Islands and Scenic Vistas

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Explore southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico's diverse 'sky islands,' offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives in Coronado National Forest.

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Arizona
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Coronado National Forest

The Coronado National Forest, sprawling across southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico, is a diverse landscape of 'sky islands'—mountain ranges rising dramatically from the desert floor. This unique geography fosters an extraordinary range of plant and animal life, offering visitors a chance to experience diverse ecosystems and recreational activities.

A brief summary to Coronado National Forest

Tucson, Arizona, 85701, US
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Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
Friday 8 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Check fire restrictions before your visit, as they can change depending on the season and conditions.
Bring plenty of water, especially when hiking, as water sources can be unreliable.
Be aware of wildlife, including black bears, and take necessary precautions.
Purchase a Coronado National Forest annual pass if you plan to visit frequently.
Download maps and information before you go, as cell service can be limited in some areas.

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Getting There

Driving

From Tucson, access to the Coronado National Forest is available via several routes, including the Catalina Highway (also known as the Mount Lemmon Highway) for the Santa Catalina Mountains. This scenic route begins near the intersection of Tanque Verde Road and Catalina Highway. Expect to pay an $8 day-use fee at popular recreation sites along the highway. Parking is available at trailheads and picnic areas, but can be limited during peak seasons. Be prepared for winding mountain roads and varying weather conditions.
Public Transport

While public transportation directly into the Coronado National Forest is limited, shuttle services and tour operators provide access to popular destinations like Sabino Canyon. From downtown Tucson, take a city bus to the Sabino Canyon Transfer Center, where you can connect with the Sabino Canyon Crawler. A roundtrip fare on the Crawler is approximately $8.00. Check the Sun Tran website for the most up-to-date schedules and fares. Note that the Crawler primarily serves Sabino Canyon and doesn't provide access to other areas of the forest.

Discover more about Coronado National Forest

Covering 1.78 million acres, the Coronado National Forest is a tapestry of ecosystems spread across twelve mountain ranges, or 'sky islands'. These ranges, soaring from 3,000 to 10,720 feet, create biological diversity rivaling a journey from Mexico to Canada. The forest is named after Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, who journeyed through the area in 1540.The forest's history stretches back over 11,000 years, with evidence of Mogollon, Sobaipuri, and Hohokam cultures. Established as the Santa Rita Forest Reserve in 1902, it underwent numerous consolidations, eventually becoming the Coronado National Forest in 1908.Today, the Coronado National Forest offers a wide array of activities. Hiking enthusiasts can explore over 1,000 miles of trails, from desert landscapes to alpine forests. Popular trails include the Pima Canyon Trail and routes in the Santa Catalina Mountains. Camping is available year-round, with campgrounds ranging from 3,000 to 9,000 feet in elevation. Birding is exceptional, especially in Madera Canyon, with opportunities to spot diverse species. Scenic drives wind through the mountains, offering breathtaking views.Visitors can experience all four seasons in a single day, from desert wildflowers to mountain snow. The forest also features eight wilderness areas, providing solitude and primitive recreation. Rock climbing, horseback riding, and picnicking are also popular.