On top of Mount Lemmon

We have visitors! Mom and Alan came to spend a few days with us recently as part of their multi-destination trip to the western U.S. The weather here, of course, was quite toasty so we headed up to Mt. Lemmon for a refreshing retreat.



The road up the mountain makes for a beautiful drive. I've heard you go through more ecosystems in less vertical feet than anywhere else on earth...or something like that. Regardless of the exact fact, it was pretty neat to see the transition from desert scrub to saguaro cactus forest and then onto mountain scrub and coniferous forest.



Me and Mom on top of the mountain. What a great view! We're so glad you guys came, and glad we could enjoy the mountain together.



Me and husband. This picture might make it to the Christmas card:)



Alan and Mom enjoying being part of the scenery.



They even have a ski lift on Mt. Lemmon for the two weeks or so each year that there is snow enough for skiing.



Due to fires in the Coronado National Forest, we weren't able to stop (except for one visitor center, no hiking) on the way up the mountain. Quite hungry and needing a restroom at the top, we took the opportunity to enjoy the Aspen views and delicious food at "the restaurant".



The restaurant was called The Iron Door. We heard their specialty is pie, and after trying some we are believers! It was wonderful.



One more picture of the view from the top, at 9,500 feet (and 68 degrees!).



Saguaro cactus forest...yes, it's considered a forest.



The drive down the mountain offered excellent views of the mountains surrounding Tucson. Pictured are the Tucson Mountains to the west.