Southwest - A week in Tucson

I'm considering a week in Tucson in mid February. I plan on going solo and camping, cheap flight from Baltimore, so trying to do a low cost mini camp on my own.

I of course want to do the Lemmon climb and then out an backs from Tucson, probably camp at Coronado State Park. I'll fly into Phoenix because it's direct and cheap so may camp one night at Picacho Peak(sp?) State Park.

Mt. Lemmon Can you climb the whole thing in February? Do they close roads? Does it really get below freezing during the day? Not really an issue as I've been riding in sub freezing temps here in MD.

Also, I might want to try and meet up with some other riders. Does anybody know of any bike shop group rides? I'm not quite up to the "Shootout" but may want to try that route.

Check out bikegaba.org for Tucson area rides.
Picacho is fine for camping.
Also, Picacho Century (flattest ride in the area) Sun. Feb. 8.
Depending on weather/road conditions Mt. Lemon is climbable all the way, or at least part way, in February. This ain't Maryland and don't know how well you can handle 8,500+ elevation.
Yes, it can get cold up there; so dress appropriately especially for the long descent.
Enjoy your stay!

Thanks for the info. We have elevation in MD but it's mostly up and down, not long climbs. Not sure if I'll have difficulty with the altitude, thin air etc. I've done the Going to The Sun Rd. in Glacier and also Townes Pass in Death Valley. Townes Pass was tough but I was kind of sick.

In mid-February you should be fine for Mt. Lemmon. Tucson it's self will likely be 70-80°F and Lemmon should be 50-60°F during the day. However, as soon as the sun gets lower in the sky, it will get pretty cold on the portions of the road that are in the shade. However, baring any extraordinary weather, the road won't be closed.