Awesome Father's Day at Tonto Bridge! Got there at 9am when the gate opens and even when we left around 11:30am on a Sunday there were plenty of parking spots still available in each parking lot. My husband had my 17 mo in a baby carrier and we did the whole loop. We spent a little over 2 hours here. Some parts were super slippery even without water present, esp more towards the bridge, but wear hiking boots and be sure of your footings and you're going to be just fine! Take your time. Stop every now and then and just look up. It's beautiful all the rocks and mountain cliffs. It's beautiful the whole loop trail. Under the bridge the breeze and spray from the water coming down is a treat after being sweating. We saw plenty of young children take on the rocky trails. If you can physically, do the entire big loop. It's worth it. read more

See all

We are a little too unstable to try the various paths down to the creek, but we did walk on the path to the four viewing points of the bridge. We got there at 9:30 and the parking lot was almost empty. By the time we left, it was hopping. So from our perspective, the best time to go is early. Of the four viewing points, number one is best for the view of the bridge and number four is best for a view of the waterfall. The park and paths are well-maintained and the person in the gift shop that took our money was incredibly helpful and cheerful. We highly recommend this park. read more

Very beautiful hike, there are multiple trails and some are harder than others. The lady working the front was very sweet and explained the area to us well. read more

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park - Hiking Near Me - Pine, Arizona

See all

This is a must see!! the trails are breathtaking!! we even saw a lot of wildlife there including javelinas. I definitely recommend a visit here. Please note that some of the trails could be closed if there's inclement weather. read more

See all

This is a beautiful, well-maintained park with a majestic natural bridge. The bathrooms are clean, parking is ample, and there's a lovely souvenir shop where you also pay the entrance fee. It's definitely a must-stop if you're in the area! It took us about two hours to complete the main trail, though you can easily wander longer and soak in the views. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes with a strong grip as some areas can get slippery. And skip carrying a water bottle in your hand; a backpack or hip pouch with a water carrier works much better read more

See all

I would go on this hike over and over again! It's is so worth it and I've already been back to take more friends. The natural bridge is so cool and you're able to hike right through it, it's nice on a hot day because you'll likely get a little wet! There is a smaller waterfall that is a super short hike as well near the opposite end of the parking lot that you shouldn't miss out on if you can! read more

See all

This is a review for A natural stone bridge. The largest in existence in the USA. There are four viewpoints from the top. All Hdq accessible. With pay telescopes. There is a down trail that is not Hdq accessible but 1/4 mile of down and you are at the mouth of the bridge with water falling from above. With steps. It opens at 9 am and if you are a vet from Arizona you alone are free. So only my wife paid the adult fee. The gift shop is cute and they are happy to explain the free map. There are wild deer and wild Javalina roaming the grounds. With babies. Neither are approachable. There are bathrooms and picnic tables with shade or trees. Plenty of Rest benches everywhere. Dogs on a leash not allowed Down below. We stayed a little over 3 hours. Just about right. read more

See all

The natural stone Bridge is incredible and we absolutely loved it here! Make sure you get in there before four so that you can actually walk one of the trails because you need to give yourself about an hour and they do put a sign out at the entrance. read more

I've been here a couple times and really enjoy it. We only spend a few hours here and it's enough for us to we do the walking path to check out the viewpoints but also do the trail under the bridge. The dirt /rocky trail u see the bridge is very slippery and involves rains rock climbing, so it's not for everyone. Bring hiking shoes, not flip flops for this portion It's gorgeous and I highly recommend it! read more

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park - Hiking Near Me - Pine, Arizona

I've passed it several times the last few years. This time I had to stop. The waterfall was a bit disappointing but after the very short hike, a tenth of a mile, yes, steps, a bit steep, but very doable. The Natural Bridge was a longer hike, a half mile R/T. Steep, at times loose rock. But again, worth it. Really glad I stopped. Note; take water! You'll need it. And if you forgot to tote water along the gift shop has water and electrolyte drinks. Reasonable, $3 each. read more

See all

Very nice park . . . clean, plenty of parking, well maintained and, of course, a very unique natural formation to see and explore. Employees are friendly and helpful. It is, however, unnecessarily expensive at $10.00 per person to enter, especially when considering the return on investment was long ago realized. read more

Must do on Arizona itinerary!!!!! It even gives you options you have plenty of different trails to different parts of caves system and their waterfalls. It's made for all different levels. They give you a map it cost you $10 for the whole day. They have restrooms before you start your hikes and picnic areas. Even if somebody in your party is disabled or cannot do hikes due to age or health there is an observation bridge that is just as beautiful as doing an actual hike. I have come here five different times with different people each time and everybody is amazed pictures can't do it justice! I shall return read more

This is a beautiful, small state park featuring the world's largest natural travertine bridge! There are a few viewpoints from above and then you can hike down and through the bridge from below. It's a bit slippery from the water when you cross under the bridge. The total hike is only a little over a mile. The cost to visit has increased to $10 per person. read more

See all

Park Ranger Vinny was so informative. He knew the history of the area and shared it with me so passionately. Right when we pulled up to park in front of us were the animals that look like monkeys playing in the trees but as Vinny pointed out, these are white nose, coatis, which I've never seen before. It was such a great day to go because they just had major rain and the water was flowing so swiftly. Restrooms are clean and the waterfall trail was amazing. Entrance fee was only $10 for adults. read more

See all

I've heard people say this is a great place, but I was wowed by just how great. This entire area is stunning! My husband and I came on a Tuesday. There were just a handful of others. We parked and went into the gift shop to pay our entrance. The ranger was very helpful and went over the best trail for us to experience the entire park. Then we set off on our adventure. We parked at the waterfall lot and did that short trail first. Then we walked along the paved area and hit up all 4 lookouts before setting off down the Gowan trail. This will take you to the bottom of the bridge with some amazing views all around. We then scrambled around a bunch of rocks and headed back out on the Pine Creek Trail. This creates a loop trail but not recommended for small children or those not comfortable with rock scrambling over slippery rock inclines. We ended up back right where our car was parked in the waterfall lot. Took us 2.5 hours in total with multiple stops for photos and relaxing next to the water. This place is a must see when in the area! Also a bunch of picnic tables at the top with great views. Unfortunately the most wildlife we saw was squirrels and lizards. Was hoping to see some javelina-maybe next time. read more

See all

Tonto Natural Bridge is perfect for all hiker abilities. There's easy trails for those that want a more leisurely hike, and for those that like a challenge (and have the appropriate shoes for slippery rocks) you can venture down to the trail underneath the bridge for beautiful views and adventure. We went here on Veterans Day weekend and got here a little after the park opened. There was no line to pay for your entrance fee. By the time we left a few hours later, the line was winding around the road! So, get here early if you are going at a more popular day. As well as taking in the spectacular views, you might just see some of the resident wildlife too. We saw a family of javelinas, complete with baby javelinas, munching on the grass towards the entrance. It was a very cool sight! By the way, here's a fun fact: A group of javelinas is called a squadron! Maybe next time we visit we'll spot a platoon of deer ;) Details: - As of 11-2023, non-holiday hours are 9 AM- 5 PM, last entry at 4 PM but trails close 1 hour before the park closes - Holiday hours: Thanksgiving: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Christmas Eve: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Christmas: Closed - Dogs are not allowed on the trails - Park Entrance Fee: - Adult (14+): $7.00 - Youth (7-13): $4.00 - Child (0-6): FREE read more

See all

We are not hikers at all haha. But wanted to hike a bit and see some of Arizona since we were visiting Strawberry. It's about a 12 minute drive from there. We started with the Waterfall Trail which had very very steep steps. Had an 8 year old with us and it was a little scary for her who had never done much trail walking. It was worth it though because the dead end of it was like being in a little secret fairy garden. The water trickling and tight proximity to the cliff and vegetation was magical! The way back up was tough for us because of steep steps but it isn't long. We went over to the Anna Mae Trail but we decided against it. It was pretty steep and no chains while looking very slippery. It leads to the bottom of the bridge but with the 8 year old and limited experience we decided against it. We just took the walking paths and looked at the bridge from all 4 viewpoints which was still very much worth it. We people watched as they climbed below and basked in the beauty of the huge bridge. It is really gorgeous to just look at. As we looked above, we saw a coatimundi on the Anna Mae trail hide somewhere which was super cool! It is fun and if you are a true hiker I am sure you would have an even better time than us. read more

See all

No matter what time of year the Tonto Natural Bridge is a beautiful site. Lovely areas around the park to picnic, learn some history or take the hike down under the bridge or to the falls. It is rocky down to the water and could be quite hard for elderly etc, but if in good enough shape the walk to the falls with the wooden bridge etc while steep is free of the rocks etc. it is a bit costly to get inside as it's not per car like most parks, but per person. If your family is large keep that in mind. read more

See all

Love tonto and this is my second time visiting. Beware and do not start your journey at Anna Mae Trail but the main trail that starts a lot easier. Wear good shoes for a bit of scrambling! Lots of fun, some water areas. read more

See all

We hiked up, over & through for beautiful Northern Arizona views at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park! It was so much fun - these AZ hikes are short but some are strenuous... make sure to bring lots of water, good hiking boots or sneakers, and plenty of time to soak up the goodness of God's creation. We hiked with 6, 10 & 12 year olds who LOVED this hike regardless of small challenges faced. read more

See all

This review is for the Tonto Natural Bridge hike (~2.15 miles, ~2 hours to complete). Entry was $7 per person. Spectacular views of the natural bridge and waterfalls! Hiking into and below the bridge was quite an unique experience! Be careful as it's wet and slippery! NOTE: AllTrails GPX route does NOT include the area under the bridge. However, it was easy to follow and there are arrows to guide the way. This section should add ~0.7 miles to the total mileage. Short video of the hike for those interested: https://youtu.be/r-3OpXXKLs0 read more

See all

Phenomenal views. Well worth the walk, arizona is a great spot to grow up hiking and I miss it dearly ;)

Nature is magical !Grab your dirt bikes and head here for a hills. Great weather. No hunting just bring apples and feed the Elk. read more

Fun place to hike down into, it's not too strenuous. Bring some swim gear so you can enjoy it more and bring good shoes for some light rock climbing. I recommend also bringing lunch and making it a day, you will get more bang for your buck and enjoy it much more. Bring plenty of water into the trail, there is no water or trash down there. I think it was like 7 bucks per person. read more

See all

Other than it being super hot outside the park is gorgeous! The onto bridge is beautiful. I would definitely go back in the cooler weather and explore further. read more

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park - Waterfall cave - Hiking Near Me - Pine, Arizona

See all

AMAZING! Tonto Natural Bridge State Park was such an awesome visit with a ton of hiking! We found Tonto Natural Bridge while looking at a map as we were driving from the north end of Arizona back to Scottsdale, so decided to check out this state park for some hiking along the way. We arrived here on Labor Day in the late morning and the place was already pretty busy, with many people spending their holiday here. It was about $10 admission if you don't have a state pass; there's a park ranger at the entrance that checks you in and provides a map. There was plenty of central parking that's near many of the entrances to trails. What's especially cool here if you're a hiker is that all of the trails connect with one another, so you can hike every trail and come full circle or exit a different way. We started at the Pine Creek Trail to the Gowan Trail, which is where you can see the bottom of the natural bridge. The hiking is moderate as there's scrambling, with plenty of rocks to climb over where you'll have to use your hands and arms to push your way through. The rocky path by the observation area right under the bridge where most everyone comes here for and hangs out at is super slippery, at least, it was when we were there. Make sue to wear hiking shoes with good traction. Since it was nearly 100 degrees, I was wearing shorts, so scratched up my legs when I was scrambling, so be aware that this is a full body hike. Rocky hiking makes it more challenging and fun! I highly recommend anyone in the area to visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. After a few hours hiking around below and above the bridge, you can visit the visitor's center and have a picnic at one of the tables throughout the area. Restrooms and water fountains are also available here. Loved this park! read more

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park - Tonto Natural Bridge - Hiking Near Me - Pine, Arizona

We arrived right at 9am when the park opens. It was nice weather, about 75°, and not many people there yet. I would have liked to explore more of the trails, but we were short on time. We took the Pine Creek Trail to the natural bridge area. It's only a little over 1 mile round trip but it can be challenging (rough, uneven footing, and steep grades) at some spots, due to all the rocks along the path. If we had more time to leisurely hike and hang out in the cave area that would have been ideal, but we booked it down and back in about 1 hr, 20 mins. Next time we will make sure to take more time and enjoy the state park longer since it does cost $7 per person to enter. The bridge area from underneath is pretty cool. Literally and figuratively. There's a nice breeze that runs through there and water was dripping from the top. Felt refreshing! There are some really slippery spots on the rocks in there, mind where you are stepping. There are multiple signs saying no swimming in the pools under the natural bridge. I couldn't agree more with the signage when you start the trail: "hike at your own risk, know your limits, and you are responsible for your own safety". This is great advice for this specific trail, or any trail you find yourself on. Overall, it's a really beautiful and interesting place to hike in Payson. Enjoy!! read more

See all

What a hidden gem!! Couldn't believe how close this place is to where we live and we haven't been before. Absolutely amazing! Had lunch at one of the gazebo's and it was perfect. read more

See all

Largest travertine bridge, this hike and view is well worth the effort. Highly recommended. read more

See all

I've made quite a few trips here over the years. Tonto Natural Bridge always makes for a nice relaxing day. It is located between Payson and Pine and about an hour and a half drive from the Valley. There is plenty of parking and admission is $7 per person (as of 2022). You can look at the bridge from one of the viewpoints from above or take one of the short hiking trails to the bottom. The main path down (Gowan Trail) is paved and has a couple benches along the way if you need to take a breather. The Pine Creek Trail is a little more challenging but usually has less people on it. Tonto Natural Bridge is 183 feet high and the tunnel 400 feet long. It is an amazing sight to see once you are inside the tunnel. There are many spots you can sit and take it all in. The small waterfall that drips over the top can make some of rocks a little slippery so be careful. I took the Pine Creek Trail in for the first time on my most recent trip. It's about half a mile and pretty challenging because you have to climb over large boulders. The park area around the parking lot is nice and clean and there many picnic tables around to have lunch on. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park makes for a nice mini day trip for people of all ages. read more

See all

Was in Payson and wanted to do something and was able to come here. Some beautiful views. Wish I was able to walk down to see the hole. My friend went and she was breathing heavy after she came back. There's different trails too. There's a bridge too. Also it was $7 per car. Pretty good deal. read more

See all

Went to visit Tonto Natural Bridge it was very pretty just pricey to get in. If we go back I would definitely pack a lunch and stay awhile.

Better than I could ever imagine! I wish I packed snacks or a little lunch to spend more time there! read more

It's a small state park and you pay for your pass in the gift shop. If you have mobility issues, then you can walk the paved paths and go to the different viewing areas. There are different hiking paths so check the map from the gift shop. There is a specific hiking path down to view the travertine bridge, but it can be rocky and you have to climb back up. If you want to continue through the opening then you will be scrambling through slippery rocks. It's less than a mile, but strenuous climbing up and down rocks, trying to find the path to lead you back to the viewing areas/parking lot. The first lot has "waterfalls" but it just seemed like water dripping on the short path and was not as impressive. It's a great place to have a picnic along with the views. read more

See all

July 2024: Fairly easy hikes, none longer than 0.5 miles. Rocks under the bridge are VERY slippery but manageable by moving slow and steady. It got HOT out which (90° with direct sun exposure). The bridge it self is breath taking. Get there early (gates open at 9am, we got there at 8:50am and were the third car in line with 10+ behind us). Take LOTS of water. Don't let the "cooler" temps compared to phoenix trick you. It's a steep incline up and out, on both sides. Dogs not allowed on the trails. read more

See all

We came for Labor Day weekend on Sunday and it was surprisingly busy. The hike down is great, the view of the natural bridge is amazing and I love that you can walk into it once you're down there. Some people were walking through the water - I'm sure it was cold and refreshing but we didn't try it. Now, I haven't stopped here since I was in my early 20's... I don't remember the hike being too difficult but this time things were different. The heat from the midday sun overhead was intense. Altitude also makes a huge difference in your abilities and endurance. They warned us when we came in that recently they had 5 heat related rescues and reminded us to drink lots of water and don't push ourselves too far. I didn't anticipate having a hard time on the hike up but I had to take several stops, refocus my breathing, drink water, and splash water on my face. This is a great place to stop for families but be realistic and keep yourself and your family safe. They have some great viewpoints that you don't have to hike down to and would be wheelchair accessible. They are dirt but they are flat. **Be sure to bring and drink lots of water!! I'd also recommend sunscreen and a hat. I saw some people with umbrellas to help block the sun which is a smart idea. read more

See all

A truly beautiful place to visit and spend time exploring and hiking. Bring your camera and your walking shoes. The two seniors and two young kiddos (ages 4 & 6) weren't adventurous enough to explore some of the hiking trails, but there is a paved walking path that allows you to view many of the sights. Biggest downer was the car line to get in. There's got to be a way to better streamline that process. The two guards at the guardhouse where spending significant amounts of time chatting with every car that went through, which really backed things up. Take the parking fee, give them a map, and say "have a great time" - that should be the extent of it. read more

So many enjoyable days and many years of hiking here. The bridge is gorgeous the trails are well kept and it's always our favorite place to take guests. I highly recommend starting at the top and hiking down through underneath the bridge- breathtaking views. read more

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park - Under the bridge - Hiking Near Me - Pine, Arizona

$11 fee for my son and I to enter, $7 adults, $4 for kids 7 and older, FREE 6-0. Once you go down the steep hill and come up to the contact station to enter, they ONLY accept cash there and they will ask you to park on the right nearby and go inside where the gift shop is and you can pay with your debit/credit card inside where they will give you map and tag to hang on your rearview mirror. It's better to bring cash to pay so that way you don't have to park your car, go inside and pay, get back in your car again and drive closer to the trails if you're that kind of lazy person like me. lol There is a main bathroom that is next to the historic building, my son and I did not use those ones, we used that little hut looking bathrooms(basically a porta-potty), surprisingly it didn't smell bad at all inside, there are no sinks to wash your hands inside those ones but there was a sanitizing dispenser on the outside for those bathrooms. My son and I took the steep Anna Mae Trail all the way down and went through the rocks/creek river. It was a beautiful day and the weather was nice and cool but definitely bring your water. If you think you'll hike through the rocks and creek area, I would definitely recommend bringing a backpack to hold your water bottle, jacket if you wear one, and shades. Once my son and I started hiking all the rocks and sliding down, I repeatedly had to put my water jug down to hike over certain parts of the rock area, and I had to take my shades off once we entered the shade so I could focus and see more making sure I'd be able to see I put my foot in the right spot. Also, if you do this hike, the steep one, you won't need a big jacket, you'll get plenty warm from this hike. Also, I would definitely exercise caution when it comes to hiking this particular trail- Anna Mae then hiking through all the rocks, it can be a little scary to younger kids. My 7-year-old son was a little spooked in the beginning hiking down and then as we got more into crawling, sliding, and trying to keep our balance in the rock area, he soon became more scared and cried several times at some really steep dangerous areas. There was this one area where there was a park employee who was there helping each person where you only had a little bit of foot space and where you basically hug the rock wall as you're sliding over and then try and either put your feet in the rock holes to climb down or basically slide down on your bum as its very close to the water and would have been scary if anyone or kids would have slipped and fall in the water. I honestly wish they would make that part a little safer, I couldn't believe parents were having their toddler kids do that. They should put some sort of metal rail with chains for better balance and safety. I'd say that was kind of the scariest moment for me, the rocks are very slippery and yes it hurt sliding down that steep part, I noticed my back hurt once I was home. I also noticed this is also a time where you become somewhat personal/intimate with people who are next to you doing this part of the trail as I thought it was pretty cool, we're all complete strangers to one another but yet were helping one another cross a rock, giving me their hand to help with balance, or helping my son down a steep rock, taking my water jug as I'm trying to slide down a steep rock. It was beautiful. Even though my son had his moments of crying, I did my best to calm him down but once you start climbing into the rocks, it eventually becomes too late to turn back so you have no choice to move forward. He did well and I appreciated the people next to me on this hike praising him and mom for doing so well. haha...once we finally got to the bridge, PRAISE THE LORD! lol....we started for the long walk back up the Gowan trail, very steep and tiring. Again, glad I brought my BIG water jug for my son and me. Also, I would recommend bringing an extra pair of shoes or sandals, my son got his foot wet from the water creek area, brought his sandals. He was hungry by the time we got back to the top, they sell snacks at the gift shop but I didn't want to pay extra money for a snack that they probably racked up in price, next time I will pack a lunch or bring snacks and juice for when we're back. Overall, AMAZING experience!! The drive-up had such beautiful scenery and truly makes me appreciate what Arizona has to offer and why I see now people choose to live in this state. I would definitely recommend checking out this park and even if you don't plan on doing the tough trails, there's plenty to see and walk around once you park, the Waterfalls trail might be a good short one, definitely plan on doing that one next. read more

See all

The Tonto National Bridge trail leads you down a steep path from the top of the bridge to the base then through the cave to the other side. While you are walking through the cave (bridge), it feels like you are walking through the underbelly of the Earth. Equally intimidating, there is a section of the trail that will make anyone who is afraid of heights fear that they will not make it out alive. My wife joined me, and she would not have made it through without my insistence. Maybe one day she will appreciate the fact that she completed the trail, but she didn't appreciate it that day. There was a lot of conquering her fears followed by applause from the bystanders when she made it through. One of the beautiful aspects of the trail is the stream that runs through it. During our hike there was enough water flowing through to support a few trout swimming around. I didn't see anyone fishing and doubt that it is allowed but it was fun to see. There was also a light stream of water dropping from the bridge that turned to mist by the time it reached the bottom. read more

See all