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If you’ve been to Tucson, you’ve probably driven the popular Catalina Highway, which winds its way up the south side of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
It’s an iconic route, especially if you’re aiming to reach the cool, pine-scented heights of Mt. Lemmon. But for the sake of this post, let’s say you’re someone who loves a good detour. And talk about the backway to Mt. Lemmon.
This isn’t your typical tourist road. The Control Road is a bumpy route that winds its way through the Catalina Mountains, offering a completely different experience compared to the well-paved highway.
It’s the road less taken, and that’s exactly why it’s one of my favorite ways to reach the top. If you’re looking for stunning views and the kind of adventure that makes you feel like you’re really seeing southern Arizona’s wild side, the Control Road is a must.
The Story Behind the Control Road
Long before the Catalina Highway connected Tucson to the summit of Mt. Lemmon, the Control Road was the only way up. Built in the 1920s by the U.S. Forest Service, it was a lifeline for ranchers, miners, and locals needing access to the resources in the Catalina Mountains.
But the road wasn’t easy to navigate. It was narrow, rocky, and pretty much impossible for two vehicles to pass at the same time. So, the name “Control Road” comes from how traffic was managed by designating specific times for vehicles to go up or down.
That same ruggedness makes it so appealing today. The road’s now a popular route for off-roading, hiking, biking, and just about anyone who enjoys getting away from it all. Whether you’re driving up from the Tucson side or down from Oracle, it’s a wild ride.
An Unforgettable Ride Through Sky Islands
From Tucson’s side, the Control Road starts at the Mt. Lemmon fire station just before the village of Summerhaven. You’ll pass through desert scrub, saguaros, and grasslands dotted with trees, offering stunning views of the city below.
On a clear day, you’ll even get a view of Mt. Graham in the Pinaleño Mountains, which is a two-hour drive away. From the north, you’ll see more of the higher-elevation grasslands before the road climbs into the challenging terrain of the Catalinas.
The Control Road isn’t just about the drive; it’s about the scenery and the adventure. There are few places that offer such panoramic views of the Santa Catalina mountain range and its surrounding desert landscape.
And if you’re into stargazing, the Control Road’s altitude and lack of light pollution make it a fantastic place to watch the night sky unfold.
Scars of the Bighorn Fire and Nature’s Comeback
As much as the road offers an exhilarating drive, it’s also a reminder of the fire that forever changed this area. The 2020 Bighorn Fire ravaged the Catalinas, scorching more than 119,000 acres of forest.
The damage to the Control Road was significant, but firefighters worked tirelessly to prevent destruction to Summerhaven. Seeing the scar left by the fire is tough, especially when you’re reminded of the once-beautiful aspen groves that were lost.
The road is now recovering, though, with the resilience of nature already on display. Aspens are beginning to regrow, and wildlife like bighorn sheep and black bears have returned.
Despite the destruction, the Catalinas are bouncing back faster than expected. And that’s one of the things that makes the Control Road such a fascinating trip.
Timing Your Adventure and Choosing the Right Vehicle
The road is usually open seasonally, from March to December. The winter months bring snow and ice, which close the upper parts of the road. And in summer, monsoon rains can flood the canyon, making parts of the road impassable.
If you plan on driving the entire 25-mile stretch, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Parts of the road are narrow with sharp drop-offs, and some sections get pretty rough.
I’ve seen vehicles that didn’t belong on this road, and I’ve seen more than a few people trying to rush through sections that could easily put them in a dangerous spot. Take it slow, use caution, and don’t be afraid to stop and enjoy the view.
How to Get to Mt. Lemmon Control Road
Getting to the Mt. Lemmon Control Road is easy, but knowing the best route will make your trip smoother.
- From Tucson: Head north on Highway 83 to East American Avenue in Oracle, Arizona. From there, you’ll pick up Mt. Lemmon Control Road to head up the mountain. The road will take you through the stunning high desert landscape before climbing into the Catalina Mountains.
- From Summerhaven: If you’re already in the village of Summerhaven on top of Mt. Lemmon, you can drive down to the Mt. Lemmon fire station and access the Control Road from there. Be ready for a wild ride through winding turns and jaw-dropping vistas as you descend.
Don’t forget: Whether you’re coming up from Oracle or down from Summerhaven, the road is narrow and rugged, so make sure your vehicle is suited for the conditions.
A high-clearance vehicle is a must, and four-wheel drive may be needed in some sections, especially if the weather has been rainy or snowy.
Adventure Awaits on the Backside of Mt. Lemmon
Because of its remote nature, there’s little cell phone service once you’re on the Control Road. Be sure to bring a downloaded map or GPS to guide you.
Gas up in town before heading out, as the closest service stations are in Oracle.
As for what you’ll find once you get to the top? Expect to see some of the most breathtaking views in southern Arizona and discover a piece of the Catalinas that many never get to experience.
Still Here? You Must Be the Human Equivalent of Well-Seasoned Cast Iron Pan.
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