Discovering Arizona - Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley

Not many people think of Arizona - let alone an area just north of Tucson when they consider snow skiing, but Mount Lemmon in the Catalina Mountains offers downhill skiing at nearly 9200 feet altitude.

Though smaller than the Arizona Snowbowl and Sunrise Park Resort, Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley offers 80 skiable acres, 3 lifts, 18 trails and a 907-ft. vertical drop. The longest run is 8,500 ft. Their trail ratings are: Easiest at 20%; More Difficult at 38% and Most Difficult at 42%. There is no cross-country or heli skiing available.

The ski lifts are actually open all year; a serious business in the winter, fun in the summer taking visitors to a high overlook from which they can enjoy views of the Santa Catalinas, the city of Tucson, the San Pedro Valley, the Reef of Rocks, and the distant mountains near Globe and Phoenix.

In recent winters, snowfall has been erratic, but the Ski Valley and the adjacent little town of Summerhaven is always a nice getaway from the hot and harsh desert climate. Tucson area visitors can golf and swim down in Tucson, then ski at Ski Valley, all within the same day.

Ski runs are usually open from mid-December to early April, depending on winter weather and snowfall. Always check current conditions before making the trip, or phone (520) 576-1400.

There is a $5 access fee at the tollbooth on Mount Lemmon Highway and lift tickets cost $6 for adults, $3.50 for children. Ski rentals and lessons are available. It is advisable to call (520) 749 3329 ahead for Mount Lemmon road information.

Ski Valley also has a restaurant, snack bar, and gift shop. Lodging is available in nearby Summerhaven.

Location: Northeast of Tucson at the end of the Catalina Highway. Take the Catalina Highway off Tanque Verde Road in Tucson. Drive 4.2 miles to the Forest boundary and continue 26 miles to the Ski Valley turnoff. Turn right and drive 1 mile to the ski area.

Prices
Contact Ski Valley at (520) 576-1400 for current prices.

Forest Service Fees
Skiers who drive non-stop to and from Ski Valley do not pay the $5 Day Pass fee. If your ski trip includes stops at other recreation sites on Mt. Lemmon, however, you will need to purchase the Day Pass, which is available at the Moling Fee Station on the Catalina Highway at milepost 4.5, or at Palisades Visitor Center at milepost 19.5.

Road Conditions
The highway is paved and suitable for passenger vehicles. Following snowstorms, the road may be closed temporarily; snow tires, chains or 4WD may be required. For obtaining the most current road conditions, please call the Pima County Sheriff's 24 hour Road Condition Hotline 520-547-7510.