Andre Morris

Link: http://hikearizona.com/decoder.php?ZTN=745

This weekend, the family took a trip to the Tonto National Monument. The trailhead is located right next to Lake Roosevelt and is about a 1 1/2 hour drive from East Mesa on the US60. We were all in awe of the majestic view of the lake and surrounding valley from this beautiful place. There is a cool little museum at the start of the trail that teaches you all about the life of the Native Americans who built the ruins, the Salado. At the end of the hike , you get to explore the cave dwellings themselves, which are truly impressive. This home in the rocks is one amazing room with a view! Only five hundred years ago, native people made the steep hike up and down the mountain every day to farm for squash and corn, fish, and to explore.

There are basically two dwellings on this site, we visited those known as "The Lower Cliff Dwellings". These are available to anyone without reservation. They also have "The Upper Cliff Dwellings" on site which are only available via reservation.

After our hike, we stopped at a picnic area also on-site. This area is surrounded by natural beauty including desert wildflowers, yucca, saguaro, agave and offers up a stunning view of the lake below. At one point during our picnic, a wild raven flew down only a few feet from us.

Admission is only $3 per adult, kids 16 and under are free. Dogs are allowed on the trail to the lower ruins, but must stop and wait outside. They cannot go inside the ruins. Check out this link for a map, description, and other important details. You may have to register to view the website, but it's well worth it. You can also call the monument directly at (928) 467-2241 or email TONT_Superintendent@nps.gov.

Click any picture to view the larger image...