ARIZONA STATE PARKS: For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona’s natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partners. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518. Contact by Email: pio(at)azstateparks.gov

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park Transitions to Five-Day Per Week Schedule Beginning November 19

(Phoenix, AZ – October 26, 2009) – The historic lodge at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has been under structural repair since February 26, 2009. The entire park was closed until the City of Payson stepped forward on May 22 to fund part-time positions necessary to keep the park open at least on weekends until November 15th.

Beginning on November 19 the park will transition to a five-day-per-week schedule and will be open Thursdays through Mondays (9–5) and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The lodge will remain closed due to additional internal construction projects.

But there are many reasons to visit this park and the geologic wonder of the 183-foot-high travertine bridge with a spectacular waterfall that drops down into a 400-foot-long tunnel created by Pine Creek. Hiking, picnicking, weddings, swimming, family reunions and exploring make this park one of visitor's favorite destinations. The moss-covered grottos on the waterfall trail gurgle as the spring water splashes down into rocks below. Javalina are seen often at the park during the day as they graze the grassy fields.

Just a short 1½ hour trip up to Payson from Phoenix brings visitors to a myriad of adventures including Tonto Natural Bridge and driving down the breathtaking edge of the Mogollon Rim. Why not travel the entire loop and look for herkimer diamond crystals in the leaves at Diamond Point?

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is located 10 miles north of Payson on Highway 87. The Park Entrance Fee is $4 per person for anyone aged 14 and up. Children aged 7-13 are charged $1 per person. There is no charge for children younger than 7.

For more information about the 30 State Parks, statewide hiking opportunities, off-highway vehicle trails, and other outdoor recreational and cultural opportunities in Arizona, call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit AZStateParks.com. Follow us on twitter.com/AZStateParks.

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Learn more about Tonto Natural Bridge State Park (Learn More)

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