Sky Island Scenic Byway
Visitor Services

Before a visit to Sky Island Scenic Byway, people can get information from many websites and guidebooks, Arizona Highways Magazine, or a Forest Service office in Tucson. Visitors can learn about the history and natural features of the mountain by checking out an audio tour for the byway at the public library in Tucson. Visitors can pick up a brochure at the entrance station, stop at Palisade Visitor Center, and read interpretive signs at many vista points and trailheads.

The byway offers many visitor services, including vista points (some with interpretive signs), developed recreation areas with public restrooms, a visitor center, the village of Summerhaven (with food and cabins), and a ski area with a restaurant.

Service	Description	Service	Description
	Fees Certain stops along the byway require a $5.00 use pass to access.		Camping Camping is available in the Santa Catalina Ranger District. Links to Recreation.gov for campground reservations in the Coronado National Forest: * [Rose...
	Gasoline Gasoline is available in Tucson only.		Information Information about the byway is available from websites, travel guides, and books. Road signs in Tucson guide visitors to the byway. A brochure for the byway can be picked up at the entrance...
	Restrooms There are toilet facilities along this byway.

NOTE: The America's Byways® website is federally funded and cannot promote commercial businesses. This data may not be complete or up to date. The National Scenic Byways Program is not responsible for the quality of your travel experience. See the right column on the Byway Overview page for local contact information.

Special Considerations

Following winter snowstorms, the route is sometimes restricted to four-wheel-drive vehicles or closed to all vehicles for a short time until the route is plowed. Once the route has been plowed, the route is reopened to all traffic. Closures typically last less than a few hours.

This is a winding mountain road with sharp curves and steep grades. Potential hazards include sudden weather changes, areas of concentrated traffic, and falling rock. Drivers should be aware of bicyclists on the byway. No gasoline is available along the route.

Restrictions

Very large motor homes, trailers over 22', and buses may have trouble negotiating steep grades and sharp turns. Places to turn around are few. The route is suitable for most other vehicles. The entire route is paved and accessible year-round to two-wheel-drive passenger vehicles.

Following winter snowstorms, the route is sometimes restricted to four-wheel-drive vehicles or closed to all vehicles for a short time until the route is plowed. Once the route has been plowed, it is reopened to all traffic. Closures typically last less than a few hours.

Seasons

Best Time to Drive

The best time to drive is during the summer, when the trees in the Coronado Forest create a cool, shady enviornment to spend the day hiking.

Winter

Winter storms may cause roads to close. Cars may need snow tires.

Road Conditions

To find up to date information about the road conditions along Sky Island Scenic Byway, please visit the FHWA listing of web sites for more information.

Arizona