gates pass

Just a quicker way over a small mountain range into Tucson. It is not worth going out of your way as other than a pull-off for a picture it provides nothing as an attraction. It can be accessed from the road to the Sonoran Desert Museum.

Great drive with beautiful view points. Just be careful of the many cyclists that bike the pass. Try not to be in a hurry and just enjoy the views.

Even if you are going to Saguaro National Park or Arizona-Sonora Living Desert to see desert landscapes, don't miss stopping along here to look down the mountain into the valley in both directions. The flowers are spectacular on the sides of the road.

A winding but easy road from Tucson gets you here and it is more than worth it. Brilliant scenery, cacti and and mountains. Some hiking trails are around this area too

I have seen the most magnificent sunsets from here. Make sure you get here at least 40 minutes before sunset to get a parking spot.

For those who like to make photographs of sunsets this location is a must. Opportunities and angles are endless so plan to arrive 30-60 minutes before sunset to evaluate locations. Then, plan to spend some time after the sun sets as many times the sky explodes with color after the sun is below the horizon. Try to find a location that will include a giant saguaro cactus in the foreground at the right or left side of your composition.

A must do in Tucson- some of the best views and photo ops! Convenient is you're already planning on visiting Saguaro National Park or the Desert Museu .

but not dog friendly. we were surprised to find that the park and other state parks in tucson did not allow dogs. The ranger explained it was due to mountain lions. we were unaware of this and planned our hiking trip with our dog to Tucson. Wish we knew ahead of time.

If you are heading to the western side of Tucson to go to Old Tucson or the Desert Museum or Saguara National Park, go over Gates Pass instead of taking the long way around which is accessed from the south. It is a beautiful drive at the end of Speedway Rd. It is full of beautiful desert plants and amazing views. There are several areas to stop and picnic and just enjoy a cooler view of the area in warm weather.

The view from the pass is breathtaking. The drive to the top of the pass is a bit slow and challenging, especially when trying to avoid bikers who are sharing the narrow two-lane road.Be sure to pull off and take a few photos!

There are scenic pull-offs on both sides of the road, and I'd recommend stopping at each. The panoramic views of the mountains, the cactus, the desert and the city below are spectacular. There are public restrooms (glorified hole in the ground) and some hiking trails for even better vantage points. If you can time it right, the sunset from the top of the pass is something you will never forget.

Gorgeous mountains and a beautiful view out over the Park. Well worth the time for stops at the viewpoints. Timed our return from other trips to get there just before sunset - none like it!

Went to Saguaro West to watch the Sunset and it was magnificent. It seemed to last forever. The colors in the sky were constantly changing and with the landscape...absolutely unforgettable.

The pass offers spectacular views of the pristine desert fauna and flora. The cactus are incredible and it is surprising to us north westerners to see such a diversity of plants in what would seem to be such an inhospitable place. The rocks and peaks that rise from the desert floor are majestic. Take your time to pull off at the numerous turn outs to enjoy the environment, take some photographs, or perhaps to enjoy a short stroll on some of the paths and trails. In the early morning there is no telling what birds or animals you might see. One can easily see why film makers were drawn to this beautiful area to make their movies.

Just west of Tucson is Gate's Pass. The way to Old Tucson and Sonora Museum. Great views!!! You can see for at least 50-60miles