Tonto National Forest

Tonto National Forest spans over 2 million acres across central Arizona, offering diverse terrain and recreation across multiple climate zones. The forest encompasses a mix of desert, chaparral, and higher-elevation woodland, with access to dispersed camping throughout the landscape. Visitors can fish in streams and lakes, hunt in designated seasons, and explore numerous trails suitable for day hiking and backpacking.

Scenicdrives wind through the forest, providing access to pullouts and trailheads. The terrain and elevation changes mean conditions vary significantly by location—lower elevations can be hot and dry, while higher areas offer cooler conditions. Most visitors come during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer brings monsoon thunderstorms, particularly in July and August, while winter snows at elevation can limit access on some roads and trails.