ROSE CANYON LAKE
Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest
With its pleasantly cool, canyon location on Mt. Lemmon, nearby camping, and convenient access to restrooms, drinking water and even a snack shack, Rose Canyon Lake draws the crowds on hot summer days. A 0.4-mile paved trail on the west side of the lake stays close to the water and is suitable for strollers, wheelchairs and walkers while a dirt trail on the opposite bank climbs to scenic rocky perches. Both trails are complemented by seating and plenty of shade making for effortless exploring around this tiny high altitude lake.
LENGTH: 0.7 mile total
ELEVATION: 7,000’
RATING: easy, partially barrier free
DOG RATING: dogs must be on leash and stay out of the water
KID FRIENDLY? absolutely
DISTANCE FROM PHOENIX: 150 miles one-way
GETTING THERE:
From I10 in Tucson, take the Grant Road exit 256 and go 8.7 miles east to Tanque Verde Road. Turn left and continue 3.4 miles to Catalina Highway, go left and drive uphill 17 miles to the turn off for Rose Canyon Lake (FR 9) between mileposts 17 and 18 on the left. Follow the access road to the end. Roads are 100% paved.
FEES: There’s a $5 Catalina Highway daily fee per vehicle and an $8 day use fee per vehicle at the lake.
FACILITIES: restrooms, supply store, camping, picnic area, drinking water
PROGRAMS: interpretive programs, fishing, no swimming or boating
INFO: Santa Catalina Ranger District, Coronado National Forest, (520) 749-8700
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