Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway winds from the Sonoran Desert foothills near Tucson up to the snow capped summit of Mount Lemmon. The drive is almost like transporting to another climate as you climbing from low desert cacti to oak scrub, then pine forest, and ultimately to alpine snow over 26 miles. At 9,171 ft, the summit is a sharp contrast to the desert below, making the byway one of the most spectacular “sky island” transitions in Arizona.

For a perfect day adventure on the Scenic Byway, you can check out the video I've included showing top spots like Windy Point Vista for sweeping views, grabbing a treat at the Cookie Cabin, and heading up to the summit ski resort to play in the snow.

Snow typically covers the upper elevations between late fall and early spring, with most snow activities happening from mid December through March (though weather and snowfall vary each year).