Coronado National Forest, AZ

Travel Guide

Coronado National Forest featuring landscape views, tranquil scenes and desert views
Sabino Canyon featuring hiking or walking and desert views
Sabino Canyon which includes desert views and a gorge or canyon
Coronado National Forest showing vehicle touring and desert views
Sabino Canyon which includes desert views

Just a short drive from the arid deserts, these spectacular ranges are home to lush trails, caves, lakes and snowy mountains.

Coronado National Forest spreads across nearly 2 million acres (700,000 hectares) of southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. The forest includes 12 mountain ranges or “sky islands” that shoot high above the desert below, some reaching almost 11,000 feet (3,300 meters). Head to the Coronado National Forest to escape from the bustle and heat of the city and explore the outdoors. 

If you are feeling energetic, take your pick from a number of activities, such as horseback riding or mountain biking. Head out in a boat or have a swim in one of the forest’s five lakes. Coronado National Forest is the ideal spot for hiking with over 1,100 miles (1,700 kilometers) of trails that range vastly in both environment and difficulty level. Hike through the unspoiled greenery, breathe in the fresh mountain air and do some wildlife spotting. The Coronado National Forest is home to more than more than 500 native species.

Take the family camping at one of the dozens of campsites spread throughout the forest’s eight designated wilderness areas. If you are after a more rustic experience, set up camp in one of the roadless areas and enjoy the tranquility. 

Pack lunch and relax at the Madera Canyon Picnic Area in the Santa Rita Mountains. If you are interested in rock climbing, head to the Santa Catalina Ranger District. Onyx Cave and Cave of the Bells in the Santa Rita Mountains offer a fascinating look at the underground ecosystem of the area. In winter, try skiing or snowboarding at Mount Lemmon, just outside Tucson, which is home to the United States’ southernmost ski resort. 

Coronado National Forest is about an hour’s drive from Tucson. In contrast with the sweltering desert temperatures of the surrounding flats, the forest climate is mild. The tops of the mountains are often dusted with snow, even in summer. Dress for cooler temperatures and if you are hiking, wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.  

Where to stay in Coronado National Forest

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Summerhaven

Summerhaven might not have many top sights, but Mt Lemmon Ski Valley and Santa Catalina Mountains are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Summerhaven
3 Palms Tucson North Foothills

3 Palms Tucson North Foothills

3 out of 5
7411 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ
The price is NT$1,270 per night from Aug 4 to Aug 5
NT$1,270
NT$1,556 total
Aug 4 - Aug 5
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Tucson. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (5,195 reviews)
"Friendly staff very clean and comfortable"

Reviewed on 2025/7/31

3 Palms Tucson North Foothills
Hotel McCoy - Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine

Hotel McCoy - Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine

3 out of 5
720 W. Silverlake Road, Tucson, AZ
The price is NT$2,646 per night from Aug 2 to Aug 3
NT$2,646
NT$3,084 total
Aug 2 - Aug 3
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star family-friendly hotel in Tucson. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (2,791 reviews)
"loved the art, and the fact that they pffered a kitchen that came stocked with everything you needto cook a meal. Except the food"

Reviewed on 2025/7/30

Hotel McCoy - Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine
Lodge on the Desert

Lodge on the Desert

4 out of 5
306 North Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly resort in Tucson. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,896 reviews)
"Loved it! Very nice place, very accessible. Restaurant was delicious"

Reviewed on 2025/7/29

Lodge on the Desert
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge

Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge

4 out of 5
6200 N Club House Ln, Tucson, AZ
Stay at this 4-star spa aparthotel in Tucson. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (756 reviews)
"Beautiful place and lovely room - only downfall was that they had construction early in the morning"

Reviewed on 2025/7/28

Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge
Katie's Cozy Cabins

Katie's Cozy Cabins

2 out of 5
16 West Allen, Tombstone, AZ
Stay at this cabin in Tombstone. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Tombstone Historic District and Tombstone Courthouse ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (295 reviews)
Amazing
"It was absolutely amazing and the manager and owner are quick to help when you need them. The place has everything you need. The only suggestion i have is adding an internet box i all rooms other than that the dollar general down the street has movies to buy. We will be back next year."

Reviewed on 2025/7/19

Katie's Cozy Cabins
Bisbee Brownstone Suites

Bisbee Brownstone Suites

3 out of 5
20 Brewery Ave, Bisbee, AZ
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Bisbee. Enjoy free WiFi, premium TV channels, and premium bedding. Popular attractions Copper Queen Hotel and The Bisbee Seance ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (71 reviews)
"Second time visiting. Great place and great location"

Reviewed on 2025/8/1

Bisbee Brownstone Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Cities near Coronado National Forest