If you’re looking for things to do in Payson, Arizona, you’ve come to the right place. The small town is located in northern Gila County, close to the geographic center of the state. As such, the town is often called the “Heart of Arizona”. If you have never been to Payson, Arizona before, you’re in for a treat. You’ll find many great things to do in Payson, including visiting Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Green Valley Park, and the Railroad Tunnel Trail.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
The Tonto Natural Bridge in Arizona is the largest natural travertine arch in the world. The area around it has been turned into a state park. It is about 10 miles north of Payson. You’ll find the park right off of State Route 87. Once you’re there, take some time to walk through the park and explore the natural landscape.
The park has four hiking trails. One trail leads to the top of the natural bridge, while another leads to a natural area below the bridge. It is approximately half a mile roundtrip and includes views of the bridge, a waterfall cave, and other natural sights. The trails are not long, but some are steep and difficult. It is best to wear sturdy hiking shoes. Remember that pets are not allowed on the trails and should not be left in your car. Trails close one hour before the park closes, so plan accordingly.
The natural area at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park in Payson is ideal for photography. It has a waterfall that provides picturesque views of Arizona’s rim country. Visitors can hike the short trail from the parking area, though it’s not recommended for beginners. You’ll need to bring your own water if you plan to explore the park’s many natural features.
If you’re looking for an easy daytrip from Payson, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is a great option. It’s close to a private campground and Tonto National Park. It’s also about two hours from Phoenix. The park’s amenities make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Tonto National Park
If you’re looking for a natural playground, Arizona’s Tonto National Park may be the perfect destination. This huge area of preserved land northeast of Phoenix offers miles of trails to hike or bike. While the trails are mostly in the desert, this park offers a diverse range of natural experiences. It’s the largest national forest in the state and features many lakes and reservoirs, including Roosevelt, Apache, Canyon, and Saguaro. Nearly 900 miles of hiking and biking trails can be found here.
Visitors to this state park will also be able to visit the Tonto Natural Bridge, which is believed to be the world’s largest natural travertine bridge. The bridge measures more than 400 feet in length and 150 feet in width at its widest point. The bridge is surrounded by pine trees and flowing springs and is located near the city of Payson.
Visitors to Tonto Natural Bridge can hike to the top for panoramic views of Arizona’s rim country. The park offers four hiking trails, including a short, steep trail that is recommended by park rangers. Aside from hiking, visitors can check out the bridge’s natural history.
Visitors will also find that Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is an amazing location for picnicking. It’s home to more than 400 species of fish and other wildlife. In the past, this park was home to prehistoric Indians, and you can still find ruins of ancient villages. Some of these are well-publicized, but many of them are unmarked and untouched.
Visitors can also take a trip to the Granite Dells southeast of Payson. There is a trailhead near the Stewart Pocket, a deep, wide ravine. The Stewart Creek flows through the pocket and is the natural force that created this area.
Green Valley Park
Fishing lakes are available at this 13-acre community park. Visitors can also participate in seasonal events. The park is a favorite of families. For more information, visit the website. This Payson, Arizona, park is perfect for families. The park is located in the foothills of the San Juan Mountains.
The city park has many different opportunities for families to spend time together. A paved walking path runs around the park, and there are many places to eat. Visitors can fish in the three lakes, enjoy canoeing on Green Valley Lake, or simply sit and relax. The park also has several public restrooms and a complete irrigation system with a pump station.
For families with children, there is a jungle gym area, hiking trails, and fishing lakes. The paths are kept free of duck poop, and the grass is green and luscious. There are also several choices for dining and shopping. Green Valley Park in Payson is a 45-acre recreational area.
Railroad Tunnel Trail
Hiking the Railroad Tunnel Trail in Payson, UT, is a fun, easy way to explore a historic part of the area. This 1.6 mile trail goes under the railroad, and is surrounded by beautiful sandstone and tall pine trees. At the end of the trail, you’ll find an unfinished, tall railroad tunnel.
The trail begins northwest of the parking lot. The first 1.5 miles of the hike follow the East Verde River, where you’ll enjoy the beautiful sounds of running water. The Tunnel Trail is a moderate hike, but you can find no signs for difficulty. There are no markers along the trail, so you’ll have to rely on your own sense of direction.
The town of Payson sits on the edge of the Mogollon Rim, which is part of the Colorado Plateau. It is a remote spot, which has preserved the town’s colorful Western history. The town is home to a rodeo, which is still held every year. This rodeo is the oldest continuous rodeo in the world.
After the railroad tunnel, take the Highline Trail to Washington Park, where you can hike in the National Forest. The trail begins at a trailhead sign on the south side of FR 300. Follow it for half a mile, then take Railroad Tunnel Trail 390 back toward the rim. This is a steep, rocky trail with some loose footing.
The Railroad Tunnel Trail in Payson is a fascinating way to explore Payson’s rich history. Located near Washington Park, it connects Washington Park to the Rim Road atop the rim. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, you’ll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of Payson, UT.
East Verde Picnic Area
The Tonto National Forest is considering charging a fee to access some of its popular recreation areas near Payson. These sites include East Verde River and Flowing Springs. In recent years, these locations have become increasingly popular, and visitors often leave piles of trash behind. This has caused the Tonto National Forest to hear about the need to make improvements and upgrade the facilities at these locations. To make these improvements, the Forest will need to charge a fee.
The East Verde Picnic Area in Payson is accessible via several access points. The first access point is Houston Mesa Road, which is located approximately two miles north of Highway 87. This road leads to a park along the East Verde River. Another access point is Forest Road 64. Both routes can be reached by following Highway 87 or FR 64.
Visitors to the park can enjoy a relaxing day in the shade of tall pine trees. It is a great spot for families on a day trip from Payson. The picnic area is located on East Verde Park Estates Road, also known as Forest Road 622. There is no fee to use the park, but a small fee will be required to park.
The park is an excellent place for bird watching, with the area bordered by the East Verde River. You can see species such as Common Black-Hawk, Cassin’s Kingbird, Yellow Warbler, and Summer Tanager in the forest. There are also several smaller forest roads, which are used mostly for hiking or ATV use. The forest makeup is comprised of ponderosa pine, juniper, Gambel’s oak, and sycamore trees. The park is surrounded by private land and scattered communities.
Visitors can enjoy camping and hiking at Verde Glen, a small community located off Houston Mesa Road. This area has a creek bed that flows into the East Verde River. While the creek bed was dry during our visit, during rainstorms it will fill up with water. The Mogollon Rim is located nearby and contributes to the creek bed’s ability to swell during periods of heavy rainfall.
