You’ll never run out of things to do when you visit Payson. From riding ATVs and hiking to spending time on the lake, there’s something here for everyone in the family. Unlike the more crowded western parts of Arizona, Payson offers just as many activities but with fewer people.
Payson has charming restaurants, interesting museums, and unique local shops. It’s an ideal spot to escape the summer heat or experience a winter wonderland. As someone from Phoenix, I frequently enjoy weekend getaways here, often camping and exploring the national forest lands during the hot summer months. The surrounding areas provide great adventures and a peaceful retreat.
Here are some of my favorite places to hike, camp, and explore around Payson:
1. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park: Just 10 miles north of Payson, this park is home to what’s believed to be the world’s largest natural travertine bridge. You can explore it via some paved trails, including the Pine Creek Trail, Waterfall Trail, and Gowan Trail, which leads to a viewing deck by the creek. The park is open daily, and admission costs $7 for adults and $4 for youths aged 7-13.
2. Creekside Jeep Tours: Experience an exciting off-roading adventure through the Tonto and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. They offer guided tours in an 11-person truck or a jeep, passing by scenic lakes and reaching elevations up to 8,500 feet.
3. Mogollon Rim: This 200-mile long geological feature offers stunning views and is great for sightseeing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can drive along forest roads for easy access to various viewpoints and visit the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center for more information.
4. Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin: Discover the history of Northern Gila County with exhibits and guided tours. The Zane Grey Cabin tells the story of an Ohio man who built his hunting lodge in Payson in 1918. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and under.
5. Hiking Trails: Payson boasts numerous scenic trails among ponderosa pines and water. Favorites include:
– Water Wheel Falls: A 1.6-mile trail ending at the Ellison Creek Cascades.
– Horton Creek Trail: An 8.5-mile trail following the creek and featuring waterfalls.
– Fossil Creek Falls: A 2.6-mile trail with beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes.
Check weather conditions and necessary permits before heading out.
6. Green Valley Park: This 43-acre park in the middle of Payson features three lakes, walking paths, a playground, and an amphitheater. It’s perfect for family outings with activities like kayaking, fishing, and attending summer concerts.
7. Kohl’s Ranch Stable: Enjoy a horseback ride through the mountains and wilderness with guided tours. Pony rides are available for younger children, making it a great family activity.
8. Woods Canyon Lake: Ideal for fishing, kayaking, biking, and camping, this lake offers diverse outdoor activities. Rental options for kayaks, canoes, and motorboats are available, along with a store selling essentials.
9. Camping: Immerse yourself in Tonto National Forest by camping at spots like Mogollon Campground, near Woods Canyon Lake, or Sinkhole Campground, close to Willow Springs Lake. Enjoy the natural beauty and make unforgettable campfire memories.
10. Day Trips to Strawberry, AZ: Explore this charming town at the base of the Mogollon Rim. Visit historical sites like the Strawberry School House, enjoy local eateries, and hike Bearfoot Trailhead.
11. Shopping: Discover unique shops like Explore the Attic, an antique store, and Sweet Country Charm Fudge and Gifts. West Main Street offers great thrift shopping for unique finds and gifts.
12. Payson Golf Club: Play a round of golf surrounded by ponderosa pines and wildlife. Afterward, relax at The Fairways restaurant.
13. Farmer’s Market: Every Saturday from late May to early September, visit Sawmill Crossing Plaza for a vibrant farmer’s market with local produce, crafts, and live music.
14. Shoofly Indian Ruins: Explore ancient archaeological sites in Tonto National Forest, where you can see remnants of historical structures dating back to 1000 CE.
15. Diamond Point: Search for Quartz Crystals in designated areas of Tonto National Forest for a fun, family-friendly activity.
For your visit to Payson, here’s how you might spend different lengths of time:
– One Day: Visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park in the morning, have lunch at Pinon Café, spend the afternoon at Woods Canyon Lake, and enjoy dinner at Buffalo Bar & Grill.
– Two or Three Days: Explore Green Valley Park and the Rim Country Museum, shop around town, hike Horton Creek Trail, drive along the Mogollon Rim, enjoy outdoor activities at Woods Canyon Lake, and golf at Payson Golf Club.
– A Week: Combine days in town with outdoor adventures. Take jeep tours, visit Shoofly Indian Ruins, go on a day trip to Strawberry, spend time golfing, and relax by the lake or hike various trails.
Payson offers great accommodation options:
– Best Western Inn: Centrally located with free breakfast, a fitness room, and an indoor pool.
– Northern Payson Villa: A peaceful escape with full amenities perfect for first-time visitors.
– Kohl’s Ranch Lodge: Surrounded by forest, it’s ideal for families with an outdoor pool, mini-golf, and a restaurant.
Dining options include:
– Buffalo Bar & Grill: Known for wings, burgers, and happy hour.
– Fargo’s Steakhouse: Offers seafood, steaks, salads, and pasta.
– Duza’s Kitchen: Serves breakfast and lunch with homey vibes.
– Rim Country BBQ: A mix of pizza and BBQ with live music.
– Pinon Café: Classic American homestyle cooking.
Getting to Payson is easy. From Phoenix, drive north on AZ-87. If you’re flying in, use Phoenix Sky Harbor or Mesa Gateway airports. Once in Payson, a car is the best way to get around.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– What is Payson known for?
The Mogollon Rim and the surrounding Ponderosa Pine Forest.
– Best time to visit?
May to September for outdoor activities.
– Is Payson worth visiting?
Yes, especially for camping, fishing, and hiking.
– How long to stay?
2-3 days is enough to experience most of Payson.
– Is Payson safe to visit?
Yes, it’s a safe and welcoming town for tourists.
– Top activities?
Exploring the Mogollon Rim and visiting Tonto Natural Bridge State Park.
– Local food to try?
Pinon Café’s Giant Cinnamon Bun, the sample platter at Rim Country BBQ, and the Pear Mimosa at Duza’s Kitchen.
– Historic downtown?
A small historic downtown with local charm.
– Payson or Prescott?
Payson for outdoor adventures; Prescott for more varied activities.
– Distance to Diamond Point?
About 40 minutes from Payson.
– Free activities?
Visit Green Valley Park, the farmer’s market, local lakes, and stargazing.
Overall, Payson is an underappreciated gem with unparalleled outdoor experiences and small-town charm. Whether you’re there for a quick getaway or a week-long adventure, Payson won’t disappoint. Enjoy your trip!
