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
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NT$1,327 per night from Aug 31 to Sep 1
NT$1,327
NT$1,624 total
Aug 31 - Sep 1
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! (5,366 reviews)
"It is always a pleasure to stay at 3 Palms… it’s a short drive from a busy UoA and in a great area. Staff always amazing and helpful, rooms clean and spacious. We will be back"

Reviewed on 2025/8/26

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$2,762 per night from Aug 31 to Sep 1
NT$2,762
NT$3,217 total
Aug 31 - Sep 1
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
The price is NT$1,980 per night from Sep 14 to Sep 15
NT$1,980
NT$2,341 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 ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,848 reviews)
"Nice stay .."

Reviewed on 2025/8/25

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
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! (296 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
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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