Hike-in Required
No
Open Year-round
Yes
ADA accessible
Yes
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

At just under 7,000 feet in elevation, there is no question why Windy Vista Point is such a popular place. Its spectacular views and opportunity to escape the summer heat makes this a highly sought after destination for Arizona residents and visitors alike. Approximately 18 miles up Catalina Highway, also known as the Sky Island Scenic Byway, you'll find yourself at Windy Vista Viewpoint. Although it's only 18 miles up the highway, people have been known to take 90 minutes to reach it because of the multiple photo opportunities on the way up (such as Hoodoo Viewpoint). 

If you're looking for a unique outdoor wedding venue, you're not alone! This spot hosts many weddings throughout the year. There is a large parking lot and a restroom on-site. A nice pedestrian walkway along the side of the road makes it a safe hike along the highway for children and pets. 

From this point, you can see over all of Tucson and the Pusch Ridge Wilderness. Pusch Ridge covers over 56,933 acres of wilderness ranging in elevation from 2,800 feet at Sabina Canyon to 8,800 feet at Mount Lemmon. The geological diversity of the area makes for spectacular views. Several species of desert birds and reptiles run the lower elevations, while black bears can be spotted in the sub-alpine regions. If you're looking for a day drive nearby, just head up Catalina Highway. You won't be disappointed!

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Unbeatable views. Easy access.

Cons

Big crowds.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Features

Big vistas
Geologically significant
ADA accessible

Location

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