Gates Pass Parking Area - Search Nearby - Added by Danny McGee
For unparalleled desert views, Gates Pass is one spot you don't want to miss. After a scenic windy drive up into Tucson Mountain Park, you can pull into one of the numerous parking spaces and enjoy panoramic views of the desert below.
Get on E Speedway Blvd, and follow it West until it turns into W Gates Pass rd. Follow this for 3 miles and the parking lot will be at the top of the pass. There are a few viewing platforms that offer shade from the desert heat. There are numerous trails that you can follow to get whatever view you choose. It is especially stunning during sunset. You escape the heat of the day, and get to witness the sun slowly sink down below the horizon while it illuminates the Saguaros and hills around you.
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Stay Nearby
Nearby Adventures
Hike the Brown Mountain Trail
4.2 Miles Round Trip - 500 ft gain
Hike to the Bowen Stone House via Bowen Trail
2.4 Miles Round Trip - 300 ft gain
Mountain Bike the Desperado Loop
3.6 Miles Round Trip - 231 ft gain
Summit Wasson Peak
7.4 Miles Round Trip
Reviews
Overall rating:
Incredible Drive
The drive up Catalina Highway is worth the trip! Check out the diversity in vegetation as the elevation changes. An easy visit to a Sky Island!
Monsoon Season
Gorgeous place to watch the sunset. Great spot on top of boulders. A little too crowded for my liking.
Gate Pass
Awesome view of the sunset
