Phoenix Day Trip - Payson
If you want to see a forest and a lake again, Payson is a great, short trip away. Set by the Mogollon Rim and surrounded by the Tonto National Forest, this town has a lot to offer to the nature enthusiast, as well as the art collector. You can camp, swim and fish at the nearby lakes that are tucked in between the ponderosas, or; hang around town where many artisans have called home. Located just 88.88 miles, or 1 hour, 38 minutes from Phoenix, it is a very beautiful drive.
Set at 5,000 feet, Payson is generally 10 degrees cooler than Phoenix. It is not only an escape from the heat in the summertime, it is a place to play in the snow after a winter storm. In fact, I have gone up there as late as April and still seen remnants of snow under the ponderosa trees - enough for a snowball fight!
****Picture taken in April at Woods Canyon Lake (notice the shorts?)****
Woods Canyon Lake Information
My favorite spot is the "Tonto Natural Bridge." A true wonder, this earthened bridge has trails that take you through the waterfall and tunnel created by Mother Nature. Just 10 miles north of Payson, it has picnic tables, a souvenier shop and, if you time it right, you can watch a herd of Javelina take over the park. But don't get too close to them. According to the Park Ranger, these "little piggies" will attack!
For more information, please visit Town of Payson Website
