Mt. Lemmon Highway – Rose Canyon Lake
Another must-stop along the Mt. Lemmon Highway, Rose Canyon Lake is a small six-acre lake perched at 7,000 feet above sea level. Surrounded by ponderosa pine and oaks, the lake is a high-elevation haven for birds, especially for summer breeders. Violet-green swallows, red-faced warblers, and painted redstarts are just a few of the unique species you’ll find here. The lake and campground (43 first-come, first-served sites) are quite popular during the warm summer months so plan ahead. Day-use fee is charged to park at the lake.
Site Information
Region: Tucson and Southern
County: Pima
Directions: The road to Rose Canyon Lake is at mile marker 17.1 along Mt. Lemmon Highway.
Latitude: 32.390084
Longitude: -110.708875
Operational Hours: Other
Other Operational Hours: Open April 15 to October 15
Admission or Fees: $10 day use; $22 for camping
Best time to visit: Late spring, summer, early fall
Habitats: Lake or Pond, Pine-oak Forest
Know Before You Go
Site is closed October 15 to April 15. A small campground store is open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Rare: Buff-breasted Flycatcher
Speciality: Bridled Titmouse, Greater Pewee, Hepatic Tanager, Olive Warbler, Painted Redstart
Contact Information
Santa Catalina Ranger District
Coronado National Forest
5700 N. Sabino Canyon Rd
Tucson, AZ 85750
Phone: 520-749-8700
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recreation/recarea/?recid=25600&actid=64
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L129068
Additional Resources:
Rose Canyon Lake Campground
