Lemmon Rock Lookout

Length: 1.3 miles (out and back)
Elevation Gain: 290 ft

Driving Directions to Trailhead

Note: The Lemmon Rock Lookout hike departs from the Mount Lemmon Recreation Area which is location at the end of Ski Run Road. Ski Run Road is closed annually from December 15 to March 1, with the closure sometimes being extended into April if winter conditions persist. 

From Palisades Visitor Center continue up Catalina Highway towards Summerhaven for 4.5 miles and make a right on Ski Run Road. (If you arrive in Summerhaven you’ve gone too far.) Follow Ski Run Road for 3.2 miles, passing Ski Valley, and winding upward to where the road ends at the Mount Lemmon Recreation Area. Park here. (Parking can be crowded on weekends.) The trail begins on the west side of the parking lot running through a small stand of Aspens next to a chainlink fence. 

Hike Overview

At the start of the hike you will quickly reach a junction where Meadow Trail heads to the right and the Mount Lemmon Trail, which looks like a dirt road, goes to the left. Stay left on Mount Lemmon Trail. The trail descends for .5 miles, and then junctions with the Lemmon Rock Lookout Trail on the left. Make a sharp left onto this trail. There is no sign, so keep an eye out for this turn. The Lemmon Rock Lookout Trail is a level, double track trail.

After .25 miles you’ll reach the rock formation at the base of the Lookout. The building itself (built in 1928) is not open to visitors and still serves as an operational fire tower during fire season. Feel free to climb the rock stairs to enjoy the view and a small plaque about the site. Return to the parking lot along the same route.

Safety

The area around the Lookout has steep drop offs, loose rocks and no hand rails. Please use extreme caution in this area and explore at your own risk. Please respect the structure and observe any closures.

Be sure to visit the Know Before You Go page for additional safety information.