Sky Island Scenic BywayTucson, Arizona Dotting the landscape of southern Arizona are solitary clusters of mountains. Each cluster is a reminder of the tectonic and volcanic forces that shaped this land. These mountains are known collectively as "Sky Islands." The Coronado National Forest celebrates these uniquely Arizonan feature with the Sky Island Scenic Byway, a.k.a. Catalina Highway. The Byway climbs out of Tucson, over the Catalina Mountain's forerange, and up to the rounded granite dome of Mt. Lemmon. The Byway offers not only access to cooler temperatures but many dramatic vistas, a lush pine forest, and, in the winter, great snowplay opportunities. Less than 30 miles long, plan on a couple of hours to drive the Byway's full length. Numerous picnic area are available or visitors can stop near the Byway's end at the mountain community of Summerhaven for a meal or snack. Click on a thumbnail to load the full image. |
 The drive begins |
 and the climb is gradual |
 Octillo cactus |
 The Byway at Seven Cataracts Vista |
 Approaching Geology Vista |
 A Byway "hoodoo" |
 Mt Lemmon's Ski Valley |
 A summer delight |
 A campsite at Rose Canyon |
 Molino Basin campground |
 Returning to the desert |
 With its heat and color |
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