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Tonto Natural Bridge: Arizona Travel
World's Largest Natural Travertine Bridge
Water has eroded a passage through the travertine wall, creating a natural bridge.
Click photos for larger views.
My tail points to Tonto Natural Bridge on the map.
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Tonto Natural Bridge, located in Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, is the world's largest natural travertine bridge. The travertine bridge was created over time by a combination of precipitation, limestone, calcium carbonate and the water power of Pine Creek.
Precipitation found its way underground through cracks and weak areas in the rock. This formed limestone aquifers. Calcium carbonate, carried by springs that originated in the aquifers, was deposited above ground. These deposits created the wall of travertine. With the passage of time, Pine Creek wore its way through the travertine and formed the bridge.
Go to: www.pr.state.az.us for more information on the formation of Tonto Natural Bridge.
Wildlife abounds near the bridge due to Pine Creek and a natural spring. Watch for frogs, javelinas, elk, various birds and other
riparian wildlife. Moss on the rocks that lie near the bridge provide a vivid green contrast to the deep blue sky of Arizona.
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Trails include rocky areas, steep steps and wood walkways. There are three trails leading from the parking area to various points around the bridge. Gowan trail, leading to the creek and bridge, is about 1/4 mile long and is steep and rocky in areas.
Railings provide support for ascending and descending steeper areas.
The hike is well worth the effort; the bridge and creekbed provide spectacular scenery. Wear good hiking shoes or boots if you plan to use the trails.
I do not recommend hiking in the hotter months. As in all Arizona travel, bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Caution: the rocks can be quite slippery.
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Click photos for larger view.
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Tonto Natural Bridge measures 400 feet long and 150 feet wide (at widest point). The highest point of the arch is 183 feet above
Pine Creek.
Tonto Natural Bridge is a favorite among tourists, so plan to get to the area early. Holiday weekends are especially busy. A steep set of steps is part
of the path down to the bridge.
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Special Tips
Traveling with children, pets or special needs
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 Accessibility
There are 4 observations points, 3 of which are handicap accessible.
 Traveling with children
Trails can be steep and slippery, so keep a good watch over little ones. The trails and water provide an abundance of wildlife for children to keep an eye out for. Seeing a bridge created by nature is an educational experience.
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 Traveling with pets
Leashed pets are allowed on trails. Trails can be slippery and steep; consider this when deciding whether to include your pet.
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Directions & Resources
Take highway 87 north from the Phoenix area and continue north of Payson on 87/260. About 10 miles north of Payson, take FR 583 (forest service road 583) west from 87/260. FR 583 runs into FR 583A. Continue to the left on FR 583 A into the parking lot.
The hike down to the bridge can be achieved by various trails.
Resources:
rimcountrychamber.com
USDA site: Tonto National Forest
Recreation.gov Make reservations for national park recreation activities.
www.pr.state.az.us Arizona State Parks: Tonto Natural Bridge. Maps and information on the park.
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