Mogollon Rim - Payson - Tonto Natural Bridge - Excursions from Mesa Arizona | Visit Mesa

Mogollon Rim

Take in the sights around Mesa Arizona, including the beautiful Mogollon Rim Country, which includes Payson, Pine, Strawberry and Tonto Natural Bridge. Information from Visit Mesa.

206 miles round trip

Directions: from Mesa take Country Club Dr. (Hwy. 87) northeast into the town of Payson, AZ.

Payson is tucked under the spectacular 7,500 foot-high, 200-mile long Mogollon Rim.

Tonto Natural Bridge is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world at 400 feet long and 183 feet high. Visitors to this state park can stand on top o the bridge or hike down below to capture the true size and beauty of this geologic wonder.

Settled in 1879 by Mormon pioneers, Pine is nestled in the shadow of the Mogollon Rim. Visitors will see many of the historical building that still remain in the area. The oldest Pioneer Days Celebration and Parade is held each July and enjoyed by folks from all around the state.

The mountain village of Strawberry, at 6,000 feet elevation, is just three miles west of Pine and takes its name from the wild strawberries growing in the area when it was founded. Arizona's oldest standing schoolhouse, constructed by pioneers in 1885, is located in Strawberry and is now a state historical site.