Rose Canyon Lake Tucson
A serene 7-acre mountain lake offering a cool escape with fishing, camping, and stunning pine forest scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Rose Canyon Lake Tucson
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 7-acre mountain lake offering a cool escape with fishing, camping, and stunning pine forest scenery.
"A pretty lake in the cool of the mountains only 30 minutes from Tucson."
🚗 Speed Limit Enforcement
Strict speed limits on Mt. Lemmon! Violators may be asked to leave. Drive cautiously. :red_car:
🎣 Fishing License Needed
Ensure you have a valid fishing license before casting your line for trout. :fishing_pole:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Lake Views
Rose Canyon Lake
A charming 7-acre lake nestled among ponderosa pines, offering a peaceful escape.
Trout Fishing Hotspot
Rose Canyon Lake
The only lake in the Santa Catalina District stocked with rainbow trout during cooler months.
Mountain Camping
Rose Canyon Campground
Enjoy overnight stays surrounded by nature, a perfect base for exploring Mount Lemmon.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Around Rose Canyon Lake
Take a stroll or hike around the lake to enjoy beautiful mountain vistas and fresh air.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Access & Hours
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Speed Limit Enforcement
Strict speed limits on Mt. Lemmon! Violators may be asked to leave. Drive cautiously. :red_car:
🎣 Fishing License Needed
Ensure you have a valid fishing license before casting your line for trout. :fishing_pole:
🐶 Clean Up After Pets
Keep the area pristine by cleaning up after your furry friends. :dog:
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. The mountain weather can change quickly. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Speed Limit Enforcement
Strict speed limits on Mt. Lemmon! Violators may be asked to leave. Drive cautiously. :red_car:
🎣 Fishing License Needed
Ensure you have a valid fishing license before casting your line for trout. :fishing_pole:
🐶 Clean Up After Pets
Keep the area pristine by cleaning up after your furry friends. :dog:
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. The mountain weather can change quickly. :sunwithface:
🏕️ Camping Reservations
If camping, check reservation availability and fees, especially during peak season. :tent:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rose Canyon Lake is praised as a beautiful mountain escape just a short drive from Tucson, offering a refreshing change from the desert heat. Visitors enjoy the scenic views, fishing opportunities, and the peaceful atmosphere. However, it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, and strict enforcement of speed limits on the mountain road is noted.
"A pretty lake in the cool of the mountains only 30 minutes from Tucson."
Alex Garcia Jr
"Nice little mountain lake, but it's always crowded. If you are staying on the mountain and you're an angler, this is your only option. You can take a couple of different trails around the lake to take in the beautiful views."
David J. Ramirez
"This was a nice surprise. Who knew a lake in the mountains. Beautiful location."
gary Henderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rose Canyon Lake is located about 30 miles northeast of Tucson on Mount Lemmon. Take Catalina Highway (Sky Island Scenic Byway) up the mountain. The drive offers stunning views and takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
The lake and campground are typically open from April to October. Outside of these months, the main gate may be closed, requiring parking by the highway and a hike in. Always check current access status.
The drive up Mount Lemmon via Catalina Highway is scenic with many pull-offs. Be aware of winding roads and potential for changing weather conditions.
Yes, there is parking available. However, it can get crowded, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arrive early for the best chance of securing a spot.
RV camping is available at Rose Canyon Campground. Ensure your RV is suitable for mountain roads. Some visitors have shared their RV experiences here.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While some sources mention a $10 day-use fee, it's best to confirm current pricing with the Coronado National Forest Service. Camping fees also apply.
The lake is generally accessible during daylight hours when the gates are open, typically from April to October. Specific hours can vary, so checking with the forest service is recommended.
Yes, a valid Arizona fishing license is required to fish at Rose Canyon Lake. Licenses can be purchased online or from authorized vendors.
Yes, Rose Canyon Campground offers overnight camping. It's a popular spot, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends.
Dogs are generally allowed but must be leashed. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Be mindful of other visitors and their dogs.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
Rose Canyon Lake is known for rainbow trout, especially during the cooler months. Anglers also report catching crawfish.
Commonly recommended baits include unsalted corn and salmon eggs. Crawfish are also present and can be a good attractant.
Yes, there are trails around the lake offering beautiful views. These are great for a leisurely stroll or a short hike.
While some visitors have mentioned swimming, the water can be quite cold, especially outside of summer. It's primarily known for fishing and scenic enjoyment.
Mount Lemmon offers more hiking, scenic drives, the Cookie Cabin, and Ski Valley. It's a great area for a day trip or a longer stay.
📸 📸 Photography & Scenery
The lake offers beautiful reflections of the surrounding pine trees and sky. Sunsets and sunrises can be particularly stunning.
Expect a transition from desert to alpine scenery, with ponderosa pines, cooler air, and a serene lake environment. It's a stark contrast to Tucson's heat.
Absolutely! The combination of water, trees, mountains, and changing light makes it a prime location for landscape photographers.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful colors. Golden hour is particularly magical.
Drone usage is subject to Coronado National Forest regulations. It's essential to check current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will enjoy the novelty of a mountain lake, the chance to try fishing (remember licenses!), and exploring the short trails around the water. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be mindful of the strict speed limits on the mountain roads. Camping at Rose Canyon Campground is also a great option for families wanting to extend their stay. It offers a chance for kids to experience nature and enjoy activities like stargazing in a clear mountain sky. Ensure your children are supervised around the water and on trails.
🎣 Anglers Seeking Trout
Bring your fishing gear and try your luck with bait like corn or salmon eggs. The lake's size makes it manageable for shore fishing, and the scenic backdrop enhances the angling experience. Remember to check the fishing regulations and ensure you have a valid Arizona fishing license. While trout are the main draw, keep an eye out for crawfish too! The cooler temperatures at this elevation make it a comfortable fishing spot even when Tucson is sweltering.
📸 Nature Photographers
+1 Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and colors. The contrast between the alpine environment and the desert below makes for unique landscape photography. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear. The drive up Mount Lemmon itself is also incredibly scenic, with many viewpoints perfect for capturing the expansive desert panoramas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Drive Up Mount Lemmon
Many visitors treat the drive as part of the experience, stopping at various points of interest along the way. The road is well-maintained, but it's crucial to drive cautiously and be aware of other vehicles, cyclists, and potential wildlife. The change in climate is so pronounced that you can experience different seasons on the same day, making it a unique excursion from Tucson.
Fishing at Rose Canyon Lake
Anglers often recommend using bait such as unsalted corn or salmon eggs to attract the trout. The lake's relatively small size means that shore fishing is quite accessible, and many visitors enjoy the peaceful experience of casting a line surrounded by the mountain scenery. Beyond trout, some visitors have noted the presence of crawfish in the lake, which can also be a fun catch. It's essential to have a valid Arizona fishing license before you begin. Remember to be mindful of other visitors, especially when casting or reeling in your catch, as the fishing spots can be close to walking paths.
Camping and Recreation
Beyond camping, the area around Rose Canyon Lake is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Short hikes and strolls around the lake offer stunning views and a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit