UPPER MOUNTAIN BOULDERING


This is the spot for mid-summer bouldering. Boulders of all shapes and sizes can be found sitting in a serene sub-alpine environment. Cooler due to elevation, and shaded by tall pines and aspen trees, bouldering near the summit of Mt. Lemmon is a very un-Tucson like experience during the summer. There are many developed areas near the summit of Mt. Lemmon, and exploration is usre to yield many more treasures hidden in the forest. 



I haven't checked out all the summit areas (I wasted my summer sport climbing at the Orifice Wall...), but what i have experienced and seen pictures of was great. Wilderness of Rocks has one of the highest concentrations of good boulders in the Tucson area, and numerous high quality problems. The Summit Boulders look to have a ton of steep faces and roofs for those looking for a more horizontal challenge. And there are many smaller areas, such as the Mango Boulder and the River Boulder that will give you another good reason to head up the mountain. 


Sadly, the pie shop in Summerhaven is closed, but you can still find some good treats at the Cookie Cabin. Tasty chili, plate-sized cookies and decent pizza are all available there. I have heard rumors that the owner of the pie shop property is going to open a restaurant up there. Not sure what that means,  I think a simple burger and beer joint would do a pretty good business up there, but we'll see. You can also ride the ski lift to the top of the mountain and enjoy the amazing views of the Catalinas and Tucson below you. 

Wilderness of Rocks video