Friends of Tonto Natural Bridge is hosting a fundraiser, Taste at the Bridge, on September 26, 2026. The event will feature an evening of food, live music, fundraising auctions, and wine and beer tastings to benefit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, which conserves what is believed to be the world's largest natural travertine bridge.

As a self-sustaining agency, Arizona's state parks receive no taxpayer funding for operations. Proceeds raised through the event will support conservation, interpretation, and maintenance work at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Since 2013, the event has been held each year—with the exception of 2020—and raises $10,000-$16,000 annually.

"We appreciate our dedicated Friends group and this annual event because all of the money raised goes directly back to the park for many projects we wouldn't otherwise be able to fund," said Park Manager Katie Jordan. "But it's more than that. We cherish the opportunity to come together with our community to celebrate the natural wonder protected here and the impact we're making to preserve it for future generations."

Tickets to Taste at the Bridge may be purchased online at TontoNaturalBridge.org for $100 per seat. A transportation shuttle service will be available for event attendees from Payson and Pine. Friends of Tonto Natural Bridge is a nonprofit volunteer group dedicated to preserving and supporting the park.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park was opened in 1991 and features picnic areas, the historic Goodfellow Lodge, and hiking trails that lead to the natural travertine bridge spanning Pine Creek. The natural feature stands 183 feet high over a 400-foot-long tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point: higher than a 10-story building and longer than a football field. The park welcomes more than 137,000 visitors annually from around the world.

WHAT: Taste at the Bridge fundraising event

WHERE: Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, 10 miles north of Payson on Highway 87

WHEN: Saturday, September 26, 2026, 5-8 p.m.

Connecting people with the outdoors and history of Arizona to build a lifetime of memories.

For information about Arizona State Parks and the many recreational, historical and cultural programs, call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit AZStateParks.com. 

PRESS CONTACT: Michelle Thompson at (480) 589-8877 - Email: pio@azstateparks.gov