Feel like taking a road trip and a little bit of a stroll over a gorgeous Arizona river flowing through Tonto National Forest? Get ready for one of the best hikes near the Verde River — you’re going to love it!
When we think of walking in the footsteps of those who came before us, we don't usually lop sheep into that vision. However, the stunning Verde River Sheep Bridge got its name for one reason alone.
It was first opened and used in 1944 for transporting sheep across the river by a sheep owner (shepherd?) who had permits for sheep on both the east and west sides of the Verde. It was too risky to ford them through the river, so for just under $8,000 in 1943-44, the Sheep Bridge came to fruition.
Back then, however, it looked a little different than it does today. Would have you crossed it when it looked like this? This photo was taken in 1987, a year before the original Sheep Bridge was torn down.
By 1989, the U.S. Forest Service had rebuilt the structure in a more modern motif. And today, there are no sheep crossing the bridge... just hikers and those visiting this spot on the Verde River for camping, fishing and swimming.
The bridge is nearly 600 feet in length and is approximately 45 feet above the flowing waters of the Verde. The west side of the bridge still has the remains of the original suspension tower, and not far from the bridge and located on the trail is a small tub (big enough for two) filled with warm waters flowing through it from a hot spring.
Getting to this unique bridge hike is a bit of a challenge and requires some extra willpower. The winding road is very long and, in places, can be extremely rough. A parking area is located on the west side of the bridge; other parking areas are available down below the bridge on the banks of the Verde. Use caution parking on the banks during the wet season.
Here is a Google map with the precise location of the bridge. By clicking on the map, you should be able to ask for driving directions from your present location in order to learn the route and how long it will take to arrive.
