Home / Attractions / Windy Point

Overview

Best for: Dramatic high-altitude sunsets

Located halfway up the Catalina Highway towards Mt. Lemmon, Windy Point Vista offers sweeping views of the Tucson valley below. Massive rock formations provide perfect perches for watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Key Details

  • Location: Milepost 14 on Catalina Highway
  • Elevation: ~6,600 feet
  • Cost: FREE (parking pass required if stopping for long periods/hiking, but quick stops usually ok)
  • Parking: Large paved lot (fills up at sunset)
  • Drive time: ~35-45 mins from base of mountain

What Kids Will Love

  • Climbing on the giant rocks (safely!)
  • Using binoculars to see the city below
  • Feeling the temperature drop as you drive up

Pro Tips

  • Bring jackets! It is 15-20 degrees cooler than the city.
  • Arrive 30-45 mins before sunset to find parking.
  • Great stop on the way *down* from a day at Mt. Lemmon.
  • Careful with kids near drop-offs.

Useful Links

Nearby Attractions

Mt. Lemmon

Mountain village further up

Sabino Canyon

Desert canyon at the base

Nearby Restaurants

Barnyard Crafthouse

Dining at the mountain base

El Charro (Oro Valley)

Mexican food relatively nearby