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

Default Image

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 ₹3,804 per night from 4 Aug to 5 Aug
₹3,804
₹4,659 total
4 Aug - 5 Aug
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! (5,126 reviews)
"From start to finish everything was fabulous Kelsey checked us in greeted us with a smile and made everything so easy! The property has been newly renovated and is absolutely wonderful! Quiet, roomy, wonderful pool and friendly staff! Thank you for a great stay❤️"

Reviewed on 21 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
The price is ₹7,811 per night from 30 Jul to 31 Jul
₹7,811
₹9,098 total
30 Jul - 31 Jul
includes taxes & fees
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! (2,795 reviews)
"Hotel McCoy is an absolute gem! This renovated retro motel oozes charm and creativity—you can feel the passion and attention to detail in every corner. We only stayed for one night, but the fun, artsy vibe made us wish we had booked a longer stay. Plus, its easy access to the I-10 expressway made ..."

Reviewed on 23 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 ₹8,478 per night from 28 Jul to 29 Jul
₹8,478
₹9,499 total
28 Jul - 29 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! (1,038 reviews)
"Loved this place"

Reviewed on 23 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! (754 reviews)
"Rooms very clean with new furniture. Several areas are being remodeled. Golf courses are in great shape, unbelievable how soft the fairways and greens are in such great shape with 100+ temperatures."

Reviewed on 14 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! (295 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 19 Jul 2025

Katie's Cozy Cabins
Bisbee Brownstone Suites

Bisbee Brownstone Suites

3 out of 5
20 Brewery Ave, Bisbee, AZ
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Bisbee. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, premium TV channels and premium bedding. Popular attractions Copper Queen Hotel and The Bisbee Seance ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (70 reviews)
Great stay
"Nice and comfortable accommodation. Be aware that there are a lot of stairs."

Reviewed on 28 Jun 2025

Bisbee Brownstone Suites
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.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Coronado National Forest