Discover the Deepest Lake in Pima County, Arizona

Arizona features a hot climate, with temperatures easily reaching over 100 degrees during summer. And what better way to cool off than spending the day on one of the state’s many lakes? Not only is taking a dip in a clear, cool lake a natural remedy to combat rising temperatures, but lakes are also one of the best locations for recreational activities. 

Deep lakes are excellent for fishing, boating, and swimming. And depths greater than 20 feet are considered deep for a lake. Do you live near Tucson? Are you interested in finding the deepest lake near you? Discover the deepest lake in Pima County, including the lake’s activities and what other large lakes reside in the area.

Where is Pima County?

Pima County is in South-Central Arizona, where it is considered the second most populous county in the state. Tucson is the county seat and comprises the majority of the population. Named after the Pima Native Americans, the county contains several reservations and national monuments. 

The majority of the eastern part of the county is urban development centered around Tucson and its suburbs. The rest of the county is sparse. Out of the total land area of 9,189 square miles, only two square miles consist of water. There are 28 lakes in Pima County, ranging from small to large, and everything in between. 

What is the Deepest Lake in Pima County?

Rose Canyon Lake is the deepest lake in Pima County. It is a reservoir with an average depth of 44 feet, a maximum depth of over 45 feet, and a surface area of seven acres. As far as lakes go, it’s relatively small. But it’s definitely picturesque. It is about 30 miles northeast of Tucson, located on Mount Lemmon in the Santa Catalina Mountains. The lake is at a high elevation, so there is a beautiful scenic drive on the way up. And once you reach the top, you are surrounded by forests, rocky terrain, and tall stands of Ponderosa pines.

44 feet is enough to be considered a deep lake. But how does it stack up to other lakes in Arizona? The deepest lake in Arizona is Lake Mead, with a depth of 532 feet. To compare, a small boat could be concealed in Rose Canyon Lake, whereas half of the Eiffel Tower (or a 50-story building) could be fully submerged in Lake Mead. So yes, 44 feet is deep, but not that deep.

Where is Rose Canyon Lake Located on a Map?

Rose Canyon Lake is situated in the Santa Catalina Mountains, approximately 30 miles north of Tucson, Arizona. The lake can be found within the Coronado National Forest and is surrounded by a heavily wooded area that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can access Rose Canyon Lake via a winding mountain road that provides scenic vistas along the way.

What is There to Do at Rose Canyon Lake?

Rose Canyon Lake is an excellent place to get away from the city and commune with nature in the rugged mountains. This alpine lake is located at a high elevation, so the temperatures can be much cooler than at the bottom of the mountain. It should also be noted that swimming and boating are prohibited. But there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. 

Many people drive up the scenic highway and spend the afternoon hiking and fishing. Or you can stay a few days and pitch a tent! While you can’t swim in the lake, you can still relax on the shore and enjoy the view. The lake stays fully stocked with rainbow trout during the summer months, so Rose Canyon is a favorite among anglers.

Activities to enjoy at Rose Canyon Lake:

• Fishing
• Camping
• Hiking
• Mountain biking
• Picnicking
• Scenic drives
• General sight-seeing

What is the Largest Lake in Tucson?

The Silver Bell Tailings Pond is a freshwater reservoir in Pima County. The body of water spans an impressive 455 acres. However, its depth is unknown. This is a popular spot near Tucson for fishing. You can catch crappie, bass, catfish, sunfish, and trout, spending the day on the bank or in the water.

How Deep is Lakeside Lake in Tucson?

Lakeside Lake is another reservoir near Tucson perfect for fishing. The lake has an average depth of 15 feet, a max depth of 35 feet, and a surface area of 14 acres.

How Deep is Silverbell Lake in Tucson?

Silverbell Lake is a reservoir in Tucson, spanning 13 acres. It has an average depth of five feet.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © CC BY-SA 3.0 – License / Original