Tonto National Monument

Located within the northern range of the Sonoran Desert lie two cliff dwellings that were occupied from 1300-1450 CE (common era). They represent a vibrant culture consisting of local and immigrant groups that lived in the Tonto Basin. Together they formed a new ideology, which archeologists refer to as Salado. Today, descendants of the cliff dwellers continue to call Arizona home.

NPS Photo/ Christa Sadler

Where it is

National Monument, AZ.

NPS Photo/ Macario Mora

What people do there

• Biking
• Road Biking
• Food
• Picnicking
• Guided Tours
• Hiking
• Front-Country Hiking
• Junior Ranger Program
• Park Film
• Museum Exhibits
• Shopping
• Bookstore and Park Store

NPS Photo/ Davis Stevenson

Getting there

The cliff dwellings at Tonto National Monument are roughly two hours from the Phoenix metro area, located in the Tonto Basin. The Monument is off AZ Highway 188 near Roosevelt Lake. The nearest major towns are Globe (30 miles) and Payson (50 miles). See our Directions page for recommendations on the best way to drive here from the larger metro areas of Arizona.

NPS Photo/ Davis Stevenson

Weather

Weather during the summer can be extremely hot. It is typically 10 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than Phoenix, AZ. Winter weather may create hazardous conditions on the roads to Tonto National Monument. Severe thunderstorms may lead to a closure of the hiking trails.

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