Sunflower Spring (aka Quartzite Spring), Tucson, Arizona

## Overview Sunflower Spring — also known as Quartzite Spring — is a high-flow natural spring located near the summit of Mount Lemmon in the Santa Catalina Mountains, just north of Tucson, Arizona. Situated at roughly 9,000 feet in elevation within the Coronado National Forest, this spring offers a refreshing stop for hikers exploring the sky island ecosystem of the Catalinas. The water flows from a capped spring via a pipe, and visitors have reported that it fills a 3-gallon container in under two minutes — an impressive flow rate for a mountain spring at this altitude. The spring sits along a service road off the Mount Lemmon Trail #5, in a scenic area where wild sunflowers bloom during the summer months, giving the spring its name. The surrounding landscape transitions from Sonoran Desert at the base to mixed conifer forest near the top, making the drive and hike to Sunflower Spring a journey through multiple ecological zones. Historically, springs like this one have served as vital water sources for travelers, researchers, and recreationists in the rugged terrain of the Santa Catalinas. The water has been historically used as a drinking water source by hikers and visitors, though water quality can vary with seasonal conditions and should not be assumed safe without personal assessment or treatment. ## Directions **Starting Point:** Steward Observatory parking lot, located at the top of the Mount Lemmon Highway (Catalina Highway / General Hitchcock Highway) near the summit of Mount Lemmon. 1. Park at the Steward Observatory parking area near the summit. 2. From the parking lot, follow the trail to the left, passing through the gate and heading in the direction of the observatory. 3. Continue uphill, taking the right-hand path at every junction you encounter. 4. After approximately one mile, the trail will curve to the right. You will see a metal shed ahead. 5. Just across from the shed, look to your left — you'll notice a hillside that is covered in sunflowers during the summer months. 6. Listen for the sound of running water. A few stone steps lead down the hillside to the spring. 7. The capped spring has a pipe extending from the hillside where water flows freely. The pipe is located to the left of the main spring cap. **Total hiking distance:** Approximately 0.5 to 1 mile one way from the parking lot along the service road and trail. **Seasonal Note:** During winter, when snow falls on Mount Lemmon, the last 1.25 miles of road leading to the uppermost parking lot (Steward Observatory access road) are closed until the snow season ends. Plan accordingly — the spring is only reliably accessible during warmer months or when the road is open. ## What to Expect Sunflower Spring is a capped spring with water flowing from a pipe, making collection easy and convenient. The high flow rate means you won't be waiting long to fill up containers. The spring is located along a service road off Mount Lemmon Trail #5, so the walk is relatively straightforward and not overly strenuous. The surrounding area is beautiful high-elevation forest, with tall conifers and mountain meadows. In summer, the hillside near the spring is dotted with wild sunflowers — a striking sight against the dark green of the forest. Observant visitors have also noted wild tobacco growing along the trail. A small metal shed serves as a useful landmark to confirm you're in the right area. The stone steps leading down to the spring are rustic but functional. The sound of running water is audible as you approach, which helps guide you the final stretch. The GPS coordinates listed (31.962219, -111.599716) place the spring in the Pan Tak / Kitt Peak area, which may reflect an approximate or alternate mapping point — the spring is physically located near the summit of Mount Lemmon. Visitors should navigate to the Steward Observatory parking lot at the top of the Catalina Highway for the most reliable starting point. Daylight hours are recommended for visiting, as the trail and service road are not lit. Bring containers for water collection and wear appropriate footwear for a mountain trail.