Mt. Lemmon is less than a two hour drive out of Tucson, or if you prefer, 6,700 feet up.
If you’re from Tucson, I can almost guarantee you’ve been. If not, then go. Tucson still looks familiar from up above, but you’ll notice even more how it’s all connected as it’s sprawled out under foot.
There are lots of quiet, beautiful trails on Mt. Lemmon and many nice spots to enjoy the scenery. If you’re not really the outdoorsy type, Summer Haven is a tiny town with colorful shops and cozy restaurants. But what I recommend is staying on the Mountain ’til dark and watching the sun set. You might even be able to see the illusive green flash. Once it does, look up and experience the Milky Way like you never have before. 
On assignment for Arizona Sonora News, I spend an evening on Mt. Lemmon Sky Center. After a ten minute hike from the Center, I set up my camera a spot with a clear view of Tucson. The Milky Way was clearly visible even with a first quarter moon right smack in the middle of the southern end of it and Tucson glowing beneath it.
(Click here to read my article on Tucson light pollution.)
Even back at the center from the view of the telescopes, Tucson’s lights were visible but so was the Milky Way.
Visiting Mt. Lemmon at night is refreshing and rewarding. The drive down the mountain was clear and easy. Getting into town, you notice how much of the sky, and peace of mind you might have been missing.
Sonoran Stargazer 