The Bridge Hike In Arizona That Will Make Your Stomach Drop
Arizona has plenty of amazing hikes for almost every age, fitness level, and preferred scenery. If you’re looking for a challenging trek with undeniably rewarding views, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is just the place. This iconic geological wonder features a breathtaking half-mile bridge trail guaranteed to make your stomach drop — in the best way possible.
Open since 1991, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has attracted millions of visitors; locals and tourists alike. That incredibly high traffic is due to an incredible geological wonder being located here: the world's largest natural travertine bridge.
Four trails meander through the park, each one offering its own unique adventure. Distance ranges from 300 to 2,200 feet, so there's a hike for every fitness and energy level.
Gowan Trail is the longest and most difficult of them all, its rough and steep terrain posing a formidable challenge to even the most trained of athletes. A fairytale footbridge leads through lush greenery and craggy rock formations, and the hike takes about an hour to complete in its entirety.
Arduous as the trek may be, every drop of sweat is totally worth it when you reach the summit. Majestic hills stretch infinitely toward the clouds and create stunning panoramic views you'll remember forever.
Another, much shorter hike only takes 15 minutes while promising equally awe-inspiring views. The Waterfall Trail ends at a massive cave complete with a powerful stream cascading down a series of ledges into the tranquil pool below.
The other two paths boast incredible features that can't be found anywhere else in the park. Reserve a whole day to explore all the trails to experience everything this amazing place has to offer.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
