Fossil Creek & Tonto Natural Bridge

 Fossil Creek...Ahhh what a beauty. If starting out in phoenix, this trip will take 3 hours. If you follow the map in the link,  you will pass through a small town called Pine, famous for its beautiful meadows, tall pine trees, art shows and friendly people who will serve you a tasty ice cream cone or great breakfast on their patio. The kids can play on the grassy  playground or on the sandy volleyball court while you wait for lunch in the fresh air and beautiful forest setting. I highly suggest you spend a few hours soaking up some atmosphere in Pine, Arizona.

 From there you will proceed a few more miles to Strawberry, AZ turning left at the big red store/ restaurant. Drive a few more miles passed cabins and farmhouses scattered across the green meadows. Soon you will notice the road and scenery begin to change as the road begins twisting down into a canyon. When you reach the bottom, you will cross a small bridge over the travertine-lined picturesque Fossil Creek with its deep, cold, crystal-clear spring water reflecting the blue sky which is  stunningly beautiful. Now it's time to park, break out the picnic basket and enjoy nature.   This is one of my favorite spots for our family picnics as Fossil Creek offers tranquility and a unique back drop for pictures. There is a big tree someone tied a rope to that is quite fun to swing from as well.

 While you are there, check out all the hiking trails the area has to offer. You will pass a few marked trail heads offering a variety of scenery.

 If you happen to want to a little more exploring later, hop back in the car, continue passed the creek and follow it until the turn off at the secluded hot spring pool.  Click here for directions to Fossil Creek.  More about Fossil Creek   

Tonto Natural Bridge

In close proximity from Fossil Creek is a place in which also involves a twisty canyon drive down from the Highway 87 and Juniper trees is the Tonto Natural Bridge. This is a remarkable historical site and clearly marked from the main road.  Carved by ancient waters to form a big arching bridge, this breath-taking natural wonder  has been fitted with a series of stairs and platforms leading to the bottom of the creek providing great photo opportunities. The Park operates a gift shop as well.

This trip should be done when the Phoenix temp is 85 or less as the park's altitude is lower. 

Directions and more at Tonto Natural Bridge                                                              

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Planning factor 2   Strenuous level 2