The Tucson area is filled to the brim with scenic areas and a few points that are ideal for enjoying one of those iconic desert sunsets. One place that you might want to check out is called “Gates Pass” and it is located just west of Tucson in the Tucson Mountain Park area.
What is Gates Pass?
Gates Pass is an overlook area located along a scenic drive in the Tucson Mountains that is known for being a great spot to watch sunsets and to admire the desert scenery. It offers an overlook and several trails as well as nearby paths to explore that lead up higher in the surrounding mountains.
Related: another nearby sunset hotspot destination you might consider is Sentinel Peak.
Gates Pass History
The history of Gates Pass as we know it dates back to the late 1800s when in 1883 by Thomas Gates — a local pioneer and ranch keeper — was in search for a shortcut through the Tucson Mountains.
He purchased the land in order to build a road through the mountain pass and it eventually became a popular although somewhat dangerous road to get through the mountains.
From 1996 to 2001 there were 58 automobile accidents but projects were put in motion to make the road a little safer by doing things like widening the road. Today the road carries approximately 3,100 cars every day and is known for being one of the best scenic routes in the Tucson area. (For the record, it feels pretty safe to drive on now.)
Gates Pass details
Gates Pass is located at Tucson Mountain Park. You do not have to pay admission to get here and it is located right off W Gates Pass Road so there is no entrance gate.
When you arrive, you will find two separate parking areas (one is closer to the Gates Pass trailhead). You can park at either one since they are pretty close to each other.
Since parking spaces are somewhat limited, you want to arrive with plenty of time before sunset in order to secure a spot. Also, that will give you time to explore the surrounding area in the many different trails and paths.
Gates Pass is very near to other major destinations like Saguaro National Park (West District), Old Tucson, and the Sonoran Desert Museum (among others). Therefore, this could be a great place to unwind after a day of visiting all of those places.
Things to do at Gates Pass
Gates Pass has a lot to offer for different people.
First, it’s one of the renown sunset watching destinations near Tucson, Arizona.
You can enjoy the sunset in a number of ways at Gates Pass. Basically there are two hillsides that you can scramble up on and find a nice rocky area to get perched on and relax or set up for photographs.
These rocky outcroppings have some vegetation on them but a lot of the saguaros here are younger and not as developed as you might find elsewhere.
They are still beautiful though.
You can admire the scenery looking out west toward the sunset like most do but don’t forget about the beautiful mountainous terrain back east, often where colors will be cast from the sun.
There also is a system of trails that you can take advantage of.
The Gates Pass Trail is a long and easy to traverse trail that will loop around in 9.5 miles as it connects with the Avery Bryce to Golden Gate Trail.
Personally, I have not done this trail yet but if you head out to the area you could always just check out the first portion of the trail as it descends into the valley and then turn back.
Finally, there is a small pavilion that is perfect for little picnics or small gatherings.
Final word
This is a great spot to view the sunset in the Tucson area. It’s an extremely scenic spot and easy to access making it great for people who don’t necessarily want to venture out on a long or strenuous hike with limited daylight during a sunset.