Enjoy Nature in its real self at Tonto Natural State Park
Tucked away in a tiny valley surrounded by a forest of pine trees, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, is one of the best camping getaways in AZ. It 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. After a week of difficult travel from Flagstaff, the good fellows 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.
View Larger Map
|
