TONTO NATURAL BRIDGE

About 10 miles north of Payson off Hwy 87 is Tonto National Bridge State Park. This is the world’s largest travertine bridge. You can hike to top of the bridge or take the trail down below and view the extreme size and geology of this natural rock formation. There are several trails to hike in the area.

SHOOFLY INDIAN RUINS ARCHEAOLOGY SITE

Going north from Payson on Hwy 87 to Houston Mesa Road, when you turn east you will find this ancient village built by peoples that were related to the Hohokam and Salado tribes. These structures, built from adobe, held more than 80 rooms. Estimated dates of inhabitants range from 1000AD to 1250AD. There is much information on the trail that explains more about the dwellings.

TONTO FISH HATCHERY

Head east from Payson on Hwy 260 about 21 miles and follow the signs to this interesting outdoor facility. The hatchery is surrounded by streams and wetlands that is home to many types of creatures. You can learn about how the facility provides Arizona streams and lakes with trout. Bird watching, fishing, camping, hiking are also available in the area.

MUSEUM OF RIM COUNTRY

This archeology facility is located right in Payson on Main St. The museum will provide a peek into the past and a look at the early inhabitants of the area up through the western pioneers that settled in the area. It’s open year around.

FOSSIL CREEK

This side trip will take you west on Hwy 260, almost to Camp Verde. The road is maintained by the Forest Service is very bumpy and winding so you’ll need to proceed slowly. The trailhead is very near an old power plant that used to provide the city of Phoenix with power back in the 20s and 30s. The road takes you through a variety of vegetation. If you get out and hike through the area, you will see a variety of wild life, streams, pools and landscapes.