Explore the Wonders of the Mt. Lemmon Sky Center Observatory

Getting There

• Car

  From Saguaro National Park, head north towards E Escalante Rd. Continue onto E Tanque Verde Rd, which will become E Catalina Hwy. Follow the Catalina Hwy for about 25 miles until you reach the Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway. Continue up the mountain via the scenic byway until you arrive at the Mt. Lemmon Sky Center Observatory, located at 9800 E Ski Run Rd, Mt Lemmon, AZ 85619. Please note that there may be a fee to enter the Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway, which is typically around $5 per vehicle.

• Public Transportation

  Unfortunately, there is no direct public transportation from Saguaro National Park to Mt. Lemmon Sky Center Observatory. However, you can take a bus from Tucson to the base of Mt. Lemmon. From the Tucson Transit Center, take the Sun Tran Route 3 bus, then transfer to Route 9 towards Tanque Verde. Once you reach the Catalina Highway, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you up to the observatory, as there are no public transit options available for the mountain roads.

• Bicycle

  For adventurous tourists, biking from Saguaro National Park to Mt. Lemmon Sky Center is an option. Take the same route as if driving, using the Catalina Hwy. However, be prepared for a challenging uphill ride as you ascend the mountain. Make sure to check your bike's condition and bring plenty of water and snacks. It's recommended to start early in the day to avoid the afternoon heat.