The Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway is one of the most scenic drives in southeastern Arizona. That’s a fact. We drove up it today and saw it for ourselves. It was a cloudy day, but the next few days are going to be raining, so off we go today.

It’s not a steep drive, but rises up about 7,000 feet in 30 miles, to the top which rings in at the final elevation of over 9,000 feet.

There are many pull-outs and viewpoints along the way with spectacular views.

If you look closely at this picture below you can see a man climbing down the edge. From here he looks like a little black line with a white cap.

At the top of Mt. Lemmon SNOW and Ski Valley. Yes, you can ski in southern Arizona! Although currently they are waiting for more snow to resume skiing, some people rode the chairlift just for fun. We had a nice lunch at the restaurant at the top before making the return trip.

Iron Door Restaurant at top of Mount Lemmon

The landscape has changed from cactus to conifers and to snow!

View From the Top of Mount Lemmon

The view on the way down is as amazing as it was on the way up.

And the day closed with a colorful sunset.

• Gasoline:  $99 @ $1.79
• Lodging:   free
• Park Fees: free with America the Beautiful pass.