Gates Pass Overlook at Tucson Mountain Park

Gates Pass History

In 1883, Thomas Gates began building the road now known as Gates Pass through the Tuscon Mountains as a way to reach his carbonate mine in Avra Valley. Three years after building the pass, Gates was appointed superintendent of Yuma Territorial Prison. He died in 1896.

To shift Tucson’s economy from mining to tourism, Tucson Mountain Park was established in April 1929. In the 1930’s men from the WPA and the Civilian Conservation Corps built roads, trails, picnic areas, and stone structures to improve recreation areas. Much of their work is still seen today.

In 1959 mining became a threat again to this natural area. President Kennedy saved the land by transferring it to the National Park Service, creating the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Monument (later becoming Saguaro National Park). Remaining land became what today is Tucson Mountain Park.

In 1999, the Gates Pass overlook was renovated and the road was widened in 2005.

 

Parking at Gates Pass

For easy navigation, look for the Gates Pass Trailhead on your map app. The trailhead has a mid sized parking area, as well as a restroom. During the day, parking isn’t much of a problem. But in the evening the parking lot does fill up. I suggest arriving at least an hour before sunset to get your parking spot. This will also give you plenty of time to scout out the perfect spot to watch the sun sink below the horizon.

 

Exploring Gates Pass

From the moment you arrive at the trailhead, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the stunning Sonoran desert. It’s definitely worth a stop, even if you’re just passing through. It’s possible to see mule deer, javelina, coyotes, and jackrabbits.

 

Looking East

Looking towards the east, peeking through the mountains, is Tucson off in the distance.

 

Looking West

Standing at the ramada, looking to the west, offers views of Kitt Peak (in the distance on the left), the Comobabi Mountains (middle of the photo, furthest in the distance), and Old Tucson Studios in the middle of the valley.

 

FUN FACT: Tucson Mountain Park has over 62 miles of trails

 

Hiking

From the trailhead you can choose to head down into the valley for miles of hiking. Or, if you’re looking for a shorter journey, climb up one of the paths on the rocks to the left and right.

 

The Sunset at Gates Pass

Gates Pass is beautiful any time of day. But, if you only have time to visit once – I’d choose to come at sunset. The colors of the sky from this vantage point are spectacular.

Watching the sunset can be done right from the parking lot. Many people gather around the ramada.

You can also choose to follow the paths up the rocks to the left and right of the ramada. Keep in mind, though, that you will be returning to the parking lot after the sun goes down. The paths are not lit and the one to the right is not well marked in all areas.

I’ve watched the sun set from both the trail to the left and the one to the right up past the rock building. If I had to pick, I would say I preferred the trail to the left. But, really, there isn’t a bad place to watch the amazing colors as the sun sets with the young saguaro in silhouette.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Optional Items to Bring

• 10 Essentials
• Collapsible Hiking Poles
• Portable Solar Charger
• Sunscreen
• Car Roadside Emergency Ki

 

LEAVE NO TRACE