Skiing & Snowboarding at Mt. Lemmon Ski Area in Tucson

Skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley, located in Tucson's Santa Catalina Mountains, offers the unique experience of winter sports in the heart of southern Arizona. This high-altitude retreat—just about an hour from Tucson—boasts the southernmost ski destination in the United States. With a cozy, laid-back vibe, the area caters to both novice and seasoned winter enthusiasts, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.

Adventure Guide To Skiing & Snowboarding at Mt. Lemmon Ski Area

The Ski Runs: Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley features over 20 trails that range from beginner-friendly green slopes to challenging black diamonds. With a skiable area of approximately 200 acres, the landscape offers something for everyone. Notably, the Boneyard trail is popular with advanced skiers seeking a thrilling descent. Snowboarders appreciate the consistent downhill slopes, perfect for carving turns and gaining speed.
Chairlift Ride and Scenic Views: The Rocklift Chairlift, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape—including Tucson in the distance—is as much of a highlight as the skiing. Operating at elevations over 9,000 feet, it provides easy access to ski runs while doubling as a spectacular sightseeing experience during breaks or for non-skiing companions.
Amenities on the Mountain: Located at the base area, the Iron Door Restaurant provides hot meals, perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes. Souvenirs and essential gear can be purchased at the nearby Mt. Lemmon General Store and Gift Shop, while rentals for skis, snowboards, and other equipment are available if needed.

Local Insights

Did you know Mt. Lemmon Ski Area is run entirely by natural snowfall? Unlike larger resorts, there are no snowmaking machines here, so the season varies depending on weather conditions. This makes checking for snow reports beforehand essential. Additionally, the area transforms into a hiking destination following the ski season, offering year-round outdoor fun.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Ski season typically runs December through February, but heavy snowfall determines exact dates.
What to Bring: Layered clothing, sunscreen, and water. Temperatures can shift dramatically.
Driving Directions: From Tucson, take Catalina Highway (Sky Island Scenic Byway). The drive is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on conditions.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Marygrace Stevens3 months ago

Absolutely loved the sky ride! It was very refreshing and cool to be in Tucson, and felt i was in a whole different place. Must come visit this place!!!! Beautiful and gorgeous views.

Gemma Serenity Gorokhoffa month ago

We visited on December 15th, 2024, and there was no snow to ski. The infrastructure was turning, though, bringing people to the mountain top. The weather was chilly (49F / 10C), and as you can see on the pictures, there were a few patches of snow. We were at 8200 feet elevation (=2500 meters), so I would have thought that we may find more snow, especially in December. Those who claim that climate change is a hoax haven't added the facts of global warming together just yet. Personally, I can see it and feel it for real.

Andrew Barch3 weeks ago

Went in late December, 2024. No snow at all, but had the idea to take the chair lift to the top of the mountain to hike around, since the road to the top trailhead is closed in the winter (despite it being about 60F and not a drop of snow 😂). Anyway, bought tickets at 2:20. Figured we’d be up the mountain in no time as the line was short. Turns out, they only load every 3rd chair. So it took fooooorever. Wasn’t up the mountain until about 3:15. Ugh. Fortunately, we were able to get from the top of the chair lift to the fire lookout and back just before they stopped running for the night. We were literally the last party down. So take away? If you’re utilizing the lift for hiking like us, just know it will take longer than you expect. I’d probably start up here (lift starts running at 11), then work your way down the mountain with the rest of your day. Or just walk the 1.5 miles down. Although given the steep angle I’d assume that would kill your knees. Alright, final verdict is it’s fine. No views going up. Ok views coming down the lift.

Kelly Plasa week ago

Very diverse and beautiful drive up the Mt Lemmon Ski Valley. They were not open due to lack of snow, but very fun to see the southernmost US ski area. The local restaurant called Iron Door was not open but we will go back another day to check it out.

Jose Contreras5 months ago

Worth the drive up the mountain. AZ has done a great job with the route up the mountain with many lookout/view stops & many car pull outs to avoid congestion by slower vehicles. Go from 2300 feet in Tucson to almost 9,000 feet & about a 30 degree temperature difference. Take the ski lift for a really great view at the top! Enjoy pizza & cookies in the Cookie Cabin at Summerhaven.

Skiing & Snowboarding at Mt. Lemmon Ski Area in Tucson