Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

Story

Tonto Natural Bridge is a natural arch in Arizona, USA, that is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. The area surrounding the bridge has been made into a state park called Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, which is located off State Route 87, just 10mi north of Payson. Tonto Natural Bridge stands over a 400ft tunnel that measures at its widest point and reaches a height of.HistoryThis natural bridge was first documented by David Gowan, a Scotsman, in 1877 while hiding from hostile Apache tribe members. Gowan was impressed by the location and persuaded his family to emigrate and live there. Gowan also tried to claim the land for himself under squatter's rights.Gowan family members lived near the bridge until 1948. Their lodge building survives to this day and is included in the National Register of Historic Places.Park facilitiesWalking trails Pine Creek Trail - approximately 0.5mi long Waterfall Trail - approximately 600ft round trip to waterfall cave.Gowan Trail - approximately 0.5mi long, ending at an observation deck in the creek bottom.Gift shop Portable restroomsClosureIt was announced in early 2010 that the park was scheduled to close on June 3, 2010 because of budget cuts and to allow for repairs to the historic lodge. Since that time, three groups have donated funds to allow the park to stay open until the end of September 2011.