Coronado National Forest Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Coronado National Forest showing tranquil scenes, landscape views and desert views
Coronado National Forest
Sabino Canyon showing a gorge or canyon and desert views
Coronado National Forest which includes 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 metres). 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 kilometres) 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

While Summerhaven may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Mt Lemmon Ski Valley and Santa Catalina Mountains.

Summerhaven
3 Palms Tucson North Foothills
3 Palms Tucson North Foothills
3 out of 5
7411 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ
The price is ₹3,508 per night from 20 Jul to 21 Jul
₹3,508
₹4,296 total
20 Jul - 21 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Tucson. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a fitness centre. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
9/10 Wonderful! (5,025 reviews)
"My sweet was awesome"

Reviewed on 12 Jul 2025

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
Stay at this 3-star family-friendly hotel in Tucson. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in their ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (2,755 reviews)
Good hotel with easy access
"Cute hotel with easy access to highway. There were problems with keypad and was locked out of room multiple times. Staff were all very friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on 11 Jul 2025

Hotel McCoy - Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine
Casino Del Sol Resort
Casino Del Sol Resort
4 out of 5
5655 W Valencia Rd, Tucson, AZ
The price is ₹8,435 per night from 21 Jul to 22 Jul
₹8,435
₹9,452 total
21 Jul - 22 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star spa resort in Tucson. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,025 reviews)
BrianD
"The property is clean and feels comfy to stay in. Bed was comfortable. The pool area was great. Would visit again!"

Reviewed on 13 Jul 2025

Casino Del Sol 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.
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 Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (750 reviews)
"The property is in a beautiful location with nice exterior grounds. The buildings and rooms are pretty dated but clean and comfortable. The little kitchens in the rooms are very minimal. They could be much better appointed with more dishes and better fridges with real freezers. The pools are nice ..."

Reviewed on 10 Jul 2025

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 Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Tombstone Historic District and Tombstone Courthouse ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (294 reviews)
Amazing time
"It was so cute and small, very comfy and cozy. Absolutely beautiful"

Reviewed on 30 Jun 2025

Katie's Cozy Cabins
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 Wi-Fi, free parking and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (115 reviews)
"Great little place! It is small but Would definitely come back! Thank you Stampede and Tombstone for your hospitality!"

Reviewed on 6 Jul 2025

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