Tonto Natural Bridge, Payson Arizona

View into the Bridge

  

Under the Bridge

I've been up to Tonto Natural Bridge a few times since moving to Arizona and I have to say it is worth the drive from the valley. Unfortunately this State park is on the Arizona budget hit list, but that is another conversation entirely.  Check the website for information on park hours Lets hope that we don't lose access to this amazing spot. Tonto Natural Bridge is located Northwest of Payson, Arizona.  It is the world's largest known travertine natural bridge. The bridge, which looks more like a tunnel, is 150 feet wide and 183 feet high. Four hiking trails descend down to the bridge.  Click here for a link to a map of the trails in the park  My prefered hike is to hike down the "Gowan Trail, which leads you to the canyon floor and the opening of the bridge.  You can then hike under the bridge, which is akin to hiking through a tunnel.  It is 400 feet long and requires a bit of scrambling and steady feet.  Not recommended for anyone afraid of exposed edges.  If you don't feel up to scrambling through the tunnel you can enjoy the water fall coming off the top of the bridge and the pools waiting to be explored.  Once you are through the bridge continue to follow the trail up the canyon as it winds away long the creek.  This is a beauitful spot, with an incredible amount of vegetation.  Small waterfalls trickle down the side of the canyon in various spots.  The trail will wind up out of the canyon and you will end up on top at the Pine Canyon Trailhead.  The trail is only 1 mile in length and is a loop trail.  However, you can spend an entire day in the canyon exploring and playing in the pools. Driving Directions from Phoenix 
North on AZ 87 to Payson
Continue through Payson on AZ 87
Head 9 Miles and you see a road on your Left Marked Tonto Natural Bridge, follow this road to the park.

Kids working their way under the bridge