Arizona's Tonto National Forest Hides A Breathtaking Spot Full Of Unforgettable Wildlife And Panoramic Views

Tonto National Forest encompasses 2.9 million acres of diverse ecosystems in Arizona — including rugged mountains, desert, and pine forests — with altitudes that range from 1,300 to 7,900 feet. Though it's the largest national forest in Arizona and primarily a wilderness area, it does contain interesting pockets of civilization, like Tonto Basin, a tight-knit community of around 1,500 residents on the northwest side of Roosevelt Lake, the area's largest body of water.

Tonto Basin has a rich indigenous history that dates all the way back to 1300 AD. It may have even been the last stronghold of the Apache Tribe, according to historians. The spirit of the Wild West lives on in today's Tonto Basin, which delivers breathtaking beauty with its unique topography and striking desert foliage. This includes the iconic saguaro, the tallest cactus in the United States, which is found solely in the Sonoran Desert. The scenic hour-and-a-half drive from Phoenix to Tonto Basin is as gorgeous as the destination itself, with views of cactus-studded landscapes rolling out in every direction and watery oases like Apache Lake, a large and remote reservoir that offers endless water sports and is surrounded by colorful cliffs. 

The pristine Tonto National Forest around the community of Tonto Basin is brimming with all kinds of wildlife, including large mammals like mountain lions, coyotes, black bears, and deer. Nearby Roosevelt Lake boasts many species of fish, from carp, crappie, and buffalo fish to catfish, bluegill, sunfish, and largemouth and smallmouth bass; it also serves as a habitat for waterfowl, raptors, and the endangered Southwestern willow flycatcher. In addition, the lake is a very popular recreational spot in Arizona, with opportunities for boating, jet skiing, fishing, and more. But be mindful, though, that the area around the lake is also known for having quite a few snakes, including venomous ones like rattlesnakes.

Besides incredible views and wildlife experiences — some of which may be scarier than others — another not-to-miss area adventure is a trip to this archaeological site hidden in the mountains. At Tonto National Monument, which is only a 20-minute drive from Tonto Basin, you'll have the chance to see ruins that were inhabited 700 years ago by the Salado people. 

You can visit Tonto Basin and surrounding sights like Roosevelt Lake and Tonto National Monument any time of year. However, summers in this part of Arizona regularly exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, a day trip to this area from Phoenix might be preferable during the spring, fall, and winter seasons.