Tonto Apache Tribe

Discover indoor and outdoor playgrounds in Arizona’s Mogollon Rim Country.

The smallest reservation in Arizona is surrounded by some of the most popular year-round outdoor recreation in the state. Explore the natural wonders of the Mogollon Rim area near Payson with year-round hiking, biking and boating. Winter snow brings skiing and snowboarding into play. While exploring Arizona’s astonishing backcountry, be on the lookout for ties to the area’s Indigenous history.

Casino Gaming

Choose the all-suite hotel at Mazatzal Hotel & Casino as home base for a multi-day getaway to rim country. With rooms overlooking the Mazatzal Mountains, outdoor adventure is always top of mind. On-site, choose from more than 300 modern slots plus table games, poker room and a sportsbook that appeal to the gamers in the group. Foodies find their element at Cedar Ridge Restaurant for fine dining and The Apache Spirit Sports Bar for casual eats. An indoor pool and soothing Jacuzzi round out the creature comforts at this popular gaming destination.

Area Scenic Drives

A short stretch of Highway 260 north of Payson winds through pine forests overlooking rugged high-desert canyons on the way to the area’s bucket-list photo opp. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park features the world’s largest travertine bridge. At 150 feet wide, the rock-arch bridge spans nearly 200 feet over Pine Creek. Take in the grandeur of this natural wonder from viewpoints easily accessible from the parking lots along the way, or hike into the canyon to walk through the tunnel formed by the bridge. Continue the scenic drive north to the mountain villages of Pine and Strawberry, notable for charming cafes and woodsy cabins set among a backdrop of cool pines.

Cliff Dwellings

South of Payson, evidence of an ancient civilization is on clear display at Tonto National Monument. The Salado people, lived in the ancient cliff dwellings some 700 years ago. Visitors can hike to the lower cliff dwelling year-round or join guided hikes (reservations required) fall through spring to reach the upper cliff dwelling overlooking the Salt River and Roosevelt Lake. Head south from Payson through Tonto National Forest to reach this memorable history lesson.