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Tonto National Monument in Pictures
Tonto National Monument offers visitors a glimpse into the past while surrounded by breathtaking desert scenery.
Tonto National Monument was established on December 19, 1907 by President Theodore Roosevelt, to preserve the ancient cliff dwellings and artifacts left behind by the Salado people. These cliff dwellings date back to the 13th century and provide valuable insights into the lives of the prehistoric inhabitants of the region.
Visitors to Tonto National Monument can explore two well-preserved cliff dwellings: the Lower Cliff Dwelling and the Upper Cliff Dwelling. These remarkable structures, built into the limestone cliffs of Tonto Basin, offer a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity and daily lives of the Salado people.
For those interested in exploring more of the area, hiking trails wind their way through the desert landscape. The short, paved trail to the Lower Cliff Dwelling provides access for visitors of all ages, while the more challenging Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Although the path is paved, it’s steep! There are several benches along the way to rest, but be sure to bring some water.
Ranger-led tours and interpretive programs provide valuable insights into the history, archaeology, and ecology of the monument, enhancing the visitor experience and deepening appreciation for this ancient cultural site. The upper dwellings are only available by guided tour only and have very limited availability.
Things to see and do at Tonto National Monument
- Hike up to see the lower cliff dwellings
- Talk with a Ranger about the history of the site
- Camping (in the surrounding Tonto National Forest and Lake Roosevelt)
- Explore the museum and artifacts
- Picnicking
- Photography
- Wildlife spotting
- Hike some trails in nearby Tonto National Forest or even part of the Arizona National Scenic Trail.
- Enjoy some time on the water at Theodore Roosevelt Lake
Tonto National Monument Hours
Tonto National Monument is open year-round, with varying hours of operation:
- Visitor Center: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
- Lower Cliff Dwelling Trail: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
- Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM (October through April) and from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (May through September). By Ranger-led tour only.
Directions to Tonto National Monument
The nearest major city to Tonto National Monument is Phoenix, Arizona, located approximately 110 miles southwest of the monument. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the closes major airport.
Tonto National Monument Park Stats
Date created: 1907
Annual Visitors: 31,216 in 2023
Fun Fact: The name “Tonto” is derived from the Spanish word for “fool” or “dummy,” which was used by early Spanish explorers to describe the Native American inhabitants of the region.
Visitor Centers and Passport Stamps
Tonto National Monument does have a Visitor Center and store that’s run by the Western National Parks Association. There is also a small museum with artifacts from the site. It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Where to stay when visiting Tonto National Monument
For outdoorsy types, plan to camp or take your travel trailer to the lake. Information on camping and day use areas at Tonto National Forest can be found here.
For those day tripping from the Phoenix area, Scottsdale is a great jumping off point. Consider staying in historic old Scottsdale at The Monarch. The hotel is within walking distance of the best Old Town has to offer, the pools are great, and it’s just a quick drive to get out of the city and on your way to park.
Other Nearby Parks
- Montezuma Castle National Monument: Located 80 miles north of Tonto National Monument, Montezuma Castle preserves a remarkable cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people around 1100 AD.
- Tonto National Forest: Encompassing nearly three million acres of rugged terrain, Tonto National Forest offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and water recreation.
- Casa Grande National Monument: Considered the first cultural and prehistoric site ever set aside in the United States.
Casa Grande Ruins
Have you visited Tonto National Monument?
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