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$1,381 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
NT$1,381
NT$1,692 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
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 ...
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$2,763 per night from Sep 3 to Sep 4
NT$2,763
NT$3,219 total
Sep 3 - Sep 4
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. ...
Hotel McCoy - Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tucson Airport

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tucson Airport

3 out of 5
7001 S Tucson Blvd, Tucson, AZ
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NT$1,981 per night from Sep 14 to Sep 15
NT$1,981
NT$2,342 total
Sep 14 - Sep 15
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Tucson. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tucson Airport
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 ...
Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge
Landing Apartments near Tucson Convention Center

Landing Apartments near Tucson Convention Center

4 out of 5
20 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Tucson. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Tucson Mall and El Centro Cultural ...
Landing Apartments near Tucson Convention Center
Stampede RV Resort

Stampede RV Resort

3.5 out of 5
18 W Allen St, Tombstone, AZ
Stay at this 3.5-star cabin in Tombstone. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
Stampede RV Resort
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