The view is nice from "the overlook", but if you really want a view to behold, give yourself an extra 20-30 minutes to climb the ridge to the northwest and circle to the southwest face before getting comfortable. It's a couple hundred feet or so higher, and it gets you away from the often-crowded and litter-strewn "main" area. Take a... More

We drove through Gates Pass on our way to Tuscon. Stopped at the wayside a little early for sunset but still got some really nice photos. Love the area.

One of the most scenic places in Tucson, Arizona, Gates Pass is where you can observe a great desert landscape populated by saguaros on steep mountain slopes and see truly spectacular sunsets. I made sure to stop at the popular overlook at the summit of Gates Pass Road to snap a few photos. I've included them with this review. I... More

Beautiful access for the area leading to Sonora Desert Museum, Old Tucson and Saguaro National Park western section. At the Gates Pass Overlook, situated on the right of the road before going down, there is a trail (Gates Pass trailhead). Go down that trail (at least a little), to feel being into Gates Pass and to enjoy Gates Pass on... More

Just the views of the overlook into the valley are worth the trip and it is pretty close to downtown!

Driving over Gates Pass is beautiful anytime of the year, and convenient since it is right on the way to the Desert Museum. It is especially lovely in the spring if there have been any rains during the fall and winter to bring forth wildflowers. If so, this is a great way to see them. Views to the west are... More

This is one of the best places I go to hike, there are so many different trails and areas you can go, from steep hiking to pretty flat. Although there are a ton of cactus you have to watch out for I still rate it one of the best in Tucson.

Go up and over then come back the other way. Use the pullouts to admire the vistas and soak it in. If it's not sunset, it should not be crowded...you can really enjoy the views.

Get ready for one of the most amazing surprises that you will see while driving on a beautiful two lane road. Take your time while driving and take in all the surrounding landscape. It is worth the drive!