Arizona White Mountains scenery near Payson and Mogollon Rim

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 4, 2026

Tonto Natural Bridge viewed from an observation deck near Payson Arizona

View From Observation Deck. © Brent Schmidt

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, about 10 miles north of Payson, Arizona, protects one of the state's most remarkable natural landmarks. The park centers on a massive travertine bridge spanning Pine Creek and offers scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, picnic areas and hiking trails that descend into a lush canyon below Arizona's Mogollon Rim.

About The Natural Bridge
Park Facilities
Hours & Visitor Information
Hiking Trails
Picnic Areas
Before You Go
Best Time To Visit
FAQ

About Tonto Natural Bridge

Tonto Natural Bridge is a remarkable travertine formation carved by water over thousands of years and is promoted by Arizona State Parks as the world's largest natural travertine bridge. The bridge rises approximately 183 feet above Pine Creek, with a long natural tunnel beneath the formation. Its scale is difficult to appreciate from photographs alone, making the overlooks and canyon trails especially rewarding.

Pine Creek flows beneath the bridge through a shady canyon surrounded by pine trees, rock walls and dense vegetation. Seasonal waterfalls and seeps add to the scenery, although water flow varies with recent precipitation and seasonal conditions.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park Facilities

Park facilities include a visitor contact area, historic Goodfellow Lodge, gift shop, restrooms, drinking water, picnic areas and several parking areas connected to paved walkways and scenic viewpoints. Benches are available at several overlook and resting areas.

The paved paths and primary overlooks provide the easiest access to park scenery, while trails descending toward Pine Creek and the natural bridge are considerably steeper and may include uneven or slippery surfaces. Pets are permitted on the paved path and viewpoints but are restricted from the park's hiking trails.

Tonto Natural Bridge Facilities Map

Hours & Visitor Information

Park hours and trail-closing times can vary by season and current conditions. Hiking trails may close earlier than the paved walkways and scenic viewpoints, and winter ice, storms or maintenance can temporarily affect trail access. Before leaving for the park, check current hours, trail conditions and notices with Arizona State Parks or call the park at (928) 476-4202.

Best Time To Visit Tonto Natural Bridge

Spring and fall are especially pleasant times to visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Spring can bring blooming fruit trees, flowing water and mild hiking weather, while fall adds changing foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer offers lush canyon scenery but afternoons can be hot, and monsoon storms may create slippery trails or rapidly changing conditions. Winter can be beautiful but cold weather, snow and ice may limit access to some trails, so check park conditions before making the trip.

Hiking Trails At Tonto Natural Bridge

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has four principal hiking trails that provide access to Pine Creek, waterfalls and views beneath or near the natural bridge. Although the trails are relatively short, several include steep grades, rocky footing, uneven steps and potentially slippery surfaces. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, carry water and watch children closely. Trail conditions and closures can change with weather, ice, flooding or maintenance.

Pine Creek Trail: Approximately 1/2 mile, leading into the canyon and along Pine Creek.
Waterfall Trail: A short trail of roughly 300 feet with uneven steps leading toward a waterfall area.
Anna Mae Trail: Approximately 500 feet and connecting with Pine Creek Trail near the natural bridge.
Gowan Trail: Approximately 2,200 feet with steep and rugged sections leading toward the observation deck and creek below.

Picnic Areas & Ramadas

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has day-use picnic areas and ramadas where visitors can relax between hikes and scenic overlooks. Picnic tables and grills are available in designated areas, and some group facilities may require advance reservations or additional fees. Check current Arizona State Parks information for ramada availability, reservation requirements and any seasonal fire restrictions before planning a cookout or group visit.

What To Know Before You Go

Check trail conditions: Weather, winter ice, flooding and maintenance can temporarily close trails or portions of the canyon.
Wear sturdy footwear: Trails descending toward Pine Creek can be steep, rocky and slippery.
Bring drinking water: Even short hikes can feel strenuous because of elevation changes and warm temperatures.
Watch children closely: Canyon trails include uneven terrain, steep slopes and rocky creek areas.
Know the pet rules: Pets may use the paved path and viewpoints but are restricted from the hiking trails.
Check current hours: Hiking trails may close earlier than paved walkways and overlooks.
Plan for changing weather: Summer thunderstorms and winter ice can quickly affect trail conditions.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park FAQ

Where is Tonto Natural Bridge State Park?

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is north of Payson in central Arizona, reached from State Route 87 by following the signed park access road into the Pine Creek canyon area.

What is Tonto Natural Bridge known for?

The park is best known for its enormous natural travertine bridge over Pine Creek, along with canyon scenery, waterfalls, hiking trails, overlooks and picnic areas.

Can you hike under Tonto Natural Bridge?

Trails descend into the canyon and provide access to areas near and beneath the natural bridge when conditions permit. These routes can be steep, rocky and slippery, so visitors should check current trail conditions before hiking.

Are dogs allowed at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park?

Pets are allowed on the paved path and scenic viewpoints but are restricted from the park's hiking trails. Pets should remain leashed and under control.

Can you swim at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park?

Swimming and water access depend on designated areas and current park conditions. Visitors should follow posted rules and avoid entering restricted areas beneath the natural bridge.

What is the best time to visit Tonto Natural Bridge?

Spring and fall generally offer comfortable temperatures and attractive scenery. Summer can be hot and affected by monsoon storms, while winter snow and ice may temporarily close some trails.

How long should you spend at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park?

Allow at least two to three hours to enjoy the main overlooks, picnic areas and a short hike. Visitors planning to explore several canyon trails may want to spend most of the day at the park.