Tonto National Monument

Tonto National Monument is located in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona, near Roosevelt Lake. It is a national monument that preserves two well-preserved cliff dwellings built by the Salado people in the 13th century.

The monument is situated in the Tonto National Forest, about fifty miles east of Phoenix, and covers an area of approximately 1,120 acres. The rugged landscape offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the desert below.

The historical significance of Tonto National Monument lies in the two cliff dwellings known as Lower and Upper Ruins. These dwellings were once home to the Salado people, who thrived in the region from the 12th to 14th century. The Lower Ruin consists of 14 rooms, while the Upper Ruin features 40 rooms. The structures were built using local materials such as limestone blocks and mud mortar.

Visitors to Tonto National Monument can explore the well-preserved ruins through guided tours and interpretive exhibits. Park rangers provide insightful information about the Salado people, their daily lives, and the significance of the dwellings in their culture. The cliff dwellings are accessible via a steep hiking trail, where visitors can witness the impressive architecture up close.

Aside from exploring the cliff dwellings, visitors can also enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of the Tonto National Monument. Hiking trails wind through the desert landscape, offering opportunities for birdwatching and observing native plants and wildlife. Additionally, the monument is a popular spot for stargazing due to its remote location and low light pollution.

For those interested in exploring further, there are other attractions near Tonto National Monument. Roosevelt Lake, the largest reservoir in Arizona, is a short distance away and offers recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. The nearby Apache Trail is a scenic roadway that winds through the mountains, providing stunning vistas and access to various recreational areas.

In summary, Tonto National Monument in Arizona showcases the well-preserved cliff dwellings of the Salado people, offering a glimpse into their ancient civilization. The monument is situated in a picturesque location within the Tonto National Forest, providing opportunities for hiking, learning about the history of the area, and exploring nearby attractions such as Roosevelt Lake and the Apache Trail.

Tonto National Monument is situated in the central part of the state of Arizona, in the United States. Nestled within the rugged Tonto National Forest, it is located approximately 120 miles southeast of Phoenix, the state's capital. The monument lies within Gila County and is perched on a series of cliffs overlooking the Tonto Basin and the Salt River Valley. Its unique geographical location within the Sonoran Desert provides visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding towering cliffs, expansive desert vistas, and picturesque sunsets. This remote and tranquil environment offers a truly unforgettable experience that encapsulates the natural beauty and diverse landscape of Arizona.

Address & Contact

26260 N AZ Hwy 188 Lot 2
Roosevelt, AZ 85545
Driving Directions
Phone: 9284672241
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Tonto National Monument, considering both weather conditions and visitor count, is in March. This month offers pleasant temperatures with an average maximum of 74°F and minimum of 47°F. Additionally, there is a relatively low average monthly precipitation of 1.2 inches. During this time, the average visitor count is 946, suggesting a manageable number of visitors and a more peaceful experience compared to the peak season in summer.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Tonto National Monument are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Biking Road Biking Hiking Front-Country Hiking

Topics

Learn about these topics at Tonto National Monument: Animals Geology Archeology Native American Heritage Explorers and Expeditions Cliff Dwellings

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center

The Visitor Center offers an introduction on the people who built the dwellings 700 years ago. Artifacts and replicas of pottery and textiles are on display in the museum while the park store, operated by Western National Parks Association, sells educational items. The 20-minute park movie, located on the upstairs viewing platform, shows on demand throughout the day. Ask park staff for accessible movie options.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Tonto National Monument

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Tonto National Monument

Travelodge by Wyndham Globe AZ

Located in Miami, Travelodge by Wyndham Globe AZ is within a 5-minute drive of Corre Valley Country Club and Gila County Historical Museum. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2119 W. US 60, Hwy 60 West Side Of Town, Miami, Arizona 85502
Web: Link

OYO Hotel Globe / Miami AZ - Highway 60

A stay at OYO Hotel Globe / Miami AZ - Highway 60 places you in the heart of Miami, within a 5-minute drive of Corre Valley Country Club and Globe VA Health Care. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2370 East Highway 60, Miami, Arizona 85539
Web: Link

Best Western Gold Canyon Inn & Suites

Located in Gold Canyon, Best Western Gold Canyon Inn & Suites is within a 5-minute drive of Gold Canyon Resort - Dinosaur Mountain Golf Course and Gold Canyon Golf Resort. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8333 E Sunrise Sky Drive, Gold Canyon, Arizona 85218
Web: Link

Copper Mountain Motel

When you stay at Copper Mountain Motel in Superior, you'll be in the historical district, you'll be a 7-minute drive from Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 577 W Kiser Street, Superior, Arizona 85173
Web: Link

Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa

Located in Gold Canyon, Gold Canyon Golf Resort & Spa is in a rural location, within a 15-minute walk of Gold Canyon Golf Resort and Gold Canyon Resort - Dinosaur Mountain Golf Course. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and luggage storage. Free valet parking is available onsite.
Address: 6100 S Kings Ranch Rd, Gold Canyon, Arizona 85218
Web: Link

Motel 6 Globe, AZ

In the heart of Globe, Motel 6 Globe, AZ is within a 5-minute drive of Round Mountain Park and Cobre Valley Center for the Arts. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1699 East Ash Street, Globe, Arizona 85501
Web: Link

Sunset Oasis

When you stay at this vacation home in Gold Canyon, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Gold Canyon Resort - Dinosaur Mountain Golf Course and Gold Canyon Golf Resort. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8270 E. Fairy Duster Trail, Gold Canyon, Arizona 85118
Web: Link