Alder Picnic Area
This picnic areas is located near the crest of the Santa Catalina Mountains in the cool ponderosa pines within a short drive of trailheads, Ski Valley, and the village of Summerhaven. At this high elevation, summers are cool and winters frequently bring snow and frigid temperatures. Be prepared to experience temperatures 20 to 30 degrees cooler than those in Tucson.
General Information
Year-round
Day use only; no overnight camping allowed
No camping or overnight parking. Trailers not recommended. Pack and saddle stock not permitted in picnic area. First come, first served. Pets must be leashed at all times.
Day Use:
Day: $8 per vehicle
Week: $10 per vehicle
Federal passes accepted
Day-use: $8 per vehicle
Weekly: $10 per vehicle
Buy a pass online, or purchase a pass on-site with cash or check. Proof of payment, or a valid Coronado National Forest Annual Pass or Interagency (America the Beautiful) Pass, including the Annual, Senior, Access, or Military Pass, must be displayed on the driver's side of the vehicle dashboard. Learn more about accepted passes.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 32.43888889
Longitude: -110.7513889
Directions
From Tucson, take Tanque Verde Road east to the Catalina Highway . Drive 4.2 miles to the Forest boundary. Then continue up the Catalina Highway 23.5 miles to Alder Picnic Area. The Catalina Highway is paved, but chains or 4-wheel drive may be required in winter due to snow.
Parking
Yes
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
Yes
Recreation Groups
SUMMERHAVEN and the SUMMIT AREA Less than one hour from downtown Tucson, perennial water, picnic areas, and a network of wooded trails offer recreation opportunities for al