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Recreation Region: Santa Catalina Mountains

Molino Basin Picnic Area

Molino Basin is located in a grassy oak woodland at 4,400 ft elevation along Sky Island Scenic Byway (aka Mt Lemmon Highway).  The site offers scenic views, paved parking, accessible picnic sites with shade ramadas and grills, and a restroom.  Visitors can take a hike along the Arizona National Scenic Trail.  During some parts of the year, the creek is flowing.

General Information

Year-round

Day use only.  No overnight camping.  No trailers.  Pets must be on leash.

Day-use: $8 per vehicle Weekly: $10 per vehicle Buy a pass online, or purchase a pass on-site with cash or check. Proof of payment, or a valid Coronado National Forest Annual Pass or Interagency (America the Beautiful) Pass, including the Annual, Senior, Access, or Military Pass, must be displayed on the driver's side of the vehicle dashboard. Learn more about accepted passes.

Getting There

Directions

From Tanque Verde Road and Catalina Highway in Tucson, drive north  to the Coronado National Forest boundary, then approximately 5 miles to the site.

Parking

Yes

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are available at this site.

Yes

Recreation Opportunities

Picnicking Picnicking

Picnicking - SinglePicnicking - Single

Recreation Groups

Gordon Hirabayashi entrance sign

Catalina Highway Complex (Lower)

This complex captures trails, campgrounds, and recreation sites within the Molino Basin and Gordon Hirabayshi area.

Last updated April 8, 2025

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