| Tonto Natural Bridge State Park descends into Pine Creek Canyon where mineral springs have created the world's largest natural travertine bridge. The springs continue to flow, and droplets spill slowly from the top of the arch, not only watering ferns and other greenery below, but also gradually forming stalagmites and stalactites. Visitors can view the 400-foot-long arch from an observation deck or hike down under it.The three hiking trails are short, but steep. The family that originally owned the property developed it as a guest ranch, and the three-story, 10-bedroom lodge remains.Tucked away in a tiny valley surrounded by a forest of pine trees, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has been in the making for thousands of years. It is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. The bridge stands 183 feet high over a 400-foot long tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point.The discovery of the small and beautiful valley between Pine and Payson was documented in 1877 by David Gowan, a prospector who stumbled across the bridge as he was chased by Apaches. Gowan hid for two nights and three days in one of several caves that dot the inside of the bridge. On the third day, he left the cave to explore the tunnel and green valley surrounding it. Gowan then claimed squatter's rights.In 1898 he persuaded his nephew, David Gowan Goodfellow, to bring his family over from Scotland and settle the land permanently. After a week of difficult travel from Flagstaff, the Goodfellows arrived at the edge of the mountain and lowered their possessions down the 500 foot slopes into the valley by ropes and burros.Today, visitors can stand on top of the bridge or hike down below to capture the true size and beauty of this geologic wonder.The Tonto Natural Bridge Visitor Center offers information and a gift shop. Note: There are no restrooms located in this building.Swimming is not allowed under the Natural Bridge. However, you may swim downstream in Pine Creek. Please be advised there is no lifeguard on duty. Swimming is at your own risk.Tonto Natural Brige State Park is also an excellent place to see wildlife. Many different birds species visit the park. Please ask for a park bird list when paying your fee at the entrance station. Deer, rabbits, and javelina also inhabit the park. |
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| | | Facilities: Portable toilets, including one handicap accessible toilet, are located at each parking lot. Picnic areas are also provided at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. There is also a gift shop with a variety of books for sale about the region and the area. We also sell snacks, water, soda, walking sticks, and T-shirts. Best Time To Visit: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is open 8 am to 6 pm (with last entry at 5 pm) on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, & Mondays. The park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Closed Christmas Day. Fees: An entry fee is charged. Accessibility: Some park trails are paved, there are accessible restrooms and picnic areas. Rules: Animals must be leashed; damaging or removing the natural rocks, vegetation, or public property is prohibited. No glass containers allowed. Directions: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is located off Hwy 87, 13 miles northwest of Payson. Map: Click here for a map to Tonto Natural Bridge State Park Reservations: Reservations are not needed or required to visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Reservations are required for large groups and for use of the lodge facilities at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. | | |
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| | | | | | Address | | Tonto Natural Bridge State Park | | P.O. Box 1245 | | Payson, Arizona 85547 |
| | | Phone | | General: (928) 476-4202 | |
| | | | | Website | | Email |
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