Beginner's Guide to Hiking on Mount Lemmon: Top Trails and Tips

Mount Lemmon is a hiker's paradise with over 1,000 miles of trails in Coronado National Forest, offering options for backpackers, cyclists, and day hikers even in the Arizona summer.

Coronado National Forest has an $8 per vehicle day-use fee at each recreation area and trailhead.

Meadow Trail:

The Meadow Trail at Mount Lemmon Recreation Area is a popular trail winding through pine woodlands with stunning views of the Catalina range and Tucson basin. It's a 1.8-mile loop with 400 feet of elevation gain.

Marshall Gulch and Aspen Trails:

Marshall Gulch offers a shady oasis with a creekbed trail through pine, fir, and maple forest. The 3.7-mile loop includes the Aspen Trail with panoramic views of the Catalinas.

Butterfly Trail:

This 5.7-mile trail offers beautiful views and encounters with moths and butterflies. It descends through ponderosa pines and carpets of ferns before climbing up Mount Bigelow.

Safety and comfort tips:

Check the hike difficulty, carry extra water, monitor weather conditions, and dress appropriately for the cooler mountain climate.

According to the source: Tucson.