Tonto Natural Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tonto Natural Bridge State Park |
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Tonto Natural Bridge
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 Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Location in Arizona
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| Location | Gila, Arizona, United States |
| Area | 161 acres (65 ha) |
| Elevation | 4,530 ft (1,380 m) |
| Established | 1969 |
| Governing body | Arizona State Parks |
Tonto Natural Bridge is an amazing natural arch in Arizona, United States. Many people believe it is the biggest natural travertine bridge on Earth! A travertine bridge is made from a special type of rock formed by minerals in water.
The area around this huge bridge is now a state park called Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. You can find it off State Route 87, about 10 miles (16 km) north of Payson. The bridge itself stands over a 400-foot-long (120 m) tunnel. This tunnel is 150 feet (46 m) wide at its widest part and reaches a height of 183 feet (56 m)!
Discovering Tonto Natural Bridge
This incredible natural bridge was first seen by a Scotsman named David Gowan in 1877. He was hiding from members of the Apache tribe when he found it. Gowan was so amazed by the place that he convinced his family to move there and live near the bridge.
David Gowan tried to claim the land for himself. He lived there until he passed away in January 1926. His family continued to live near the bridge until 1948. Their old lodge building is still there today and is a protected historic place.
In 1948, a man named Glen L. Randall bought the Tonto Natural Bridge and the lodge. After he passed away in 1967, his wife sold the property. Eventually, this special place became a State Park in 1969, so everyone could visit and enjoy it.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has many cool things for visitors to enjoy:
- Walking Trails: You can explore different paths to see the bridge and the nature around it.
- Pine Creek Trail: This trail is about 0.5-mile (0.80 km) long.
- Waterfall Trail: This short trail is about 600-foot (180 m) round trip and leads to a waterfall cave.
- Gowan Trail: This trail is also about 0.5-mile (0.80 km) long. It takes you to a viewing deck right at the bottom of the creek.
- Picnic Areas: There are places where you can have a picnic with your family and friends.
- Gift Shop: You can find souvenirs and gifts to remember your visit.
- Restrooms: Portable restrooms are available for visitors.
Park Information
In early 2010, the park was going to close because of money problems and to fix up the old lodge. But thankfully, three different groups donated money to keep the park open until September 2011.
Good news! As of 2020, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is open for visitors.
- Hours: The park is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Make sure to arrive before 4:00 pm, as that's the last time you can enter.
- Entrance Fees:
- Adults: $7.00
- Kids (ages 7-13): $4.00
- Children (6 and under): Free!
