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Tonto National Forest


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National Park Contact Information
Tonto National Forest
2324 East McDowell Road
Phoenix, 85006






National Park Overview

Trails
The Tonto National Forest has a collection of nearly 900 miles of National Forest System Trails. Their primary purpose is to provide a variety of opportunities for hikers, bikers and equestrians to enjoy the beauty and challenge of nature.

The trail conditions range from good to very poor most are not suitable for motor vehicles of any type. A trailing experience can include anything from the fulfilling opposition of steep grades and heavy brush, to the exciting discovery of spectacular scenic views and memorable and peaceful seclusion from the pressures and congestion of society.

Exploring a trail in the forest can be both relaxing and exhilarating and sometimes even dangerous. With summer temperatures averaging in the mid 90s throughout most of the forest, no trail adventures should be made without the appropriate precautionary measures. Make sure that you have an adequate supply of drinking water -s well as a general idea of the time needed to complete the trip. Its also a good idea to take someone with you. You can run into trouble on any adventure and sometimes the best defense is a partner or group. Remember to be safe when trailing and avoid unnecessary danger in all forms.

For more information on a particular trail contact the managing RANGER STATION.


Boating
Relief from desert heat inspires a great many people to travel to the cool waters of one of the six reservoirs on the Tonto National Forest. There is considerable variation in the scenery, size and type of opportunities found on these reservoirs.

Some people choose the larger lakes for water-skiing and power boating. Others opt for the quiet seclusion of a narrow lake arm extending between two --vertical canyon walls. The Tonto National Forest has much to offer for boating enthusiasts. Enjoy your boating experience--but play it safe.

Boating on the Tonto National Forest is possible during all four seasons during good weather. Related recreational opportunities available at the reservoirs include camping, picnicking, fishing, water-play, hiking, wildlife viewing, personal watercraft use and interpretive programs.

Caution Lake levels vary daily and are controlled by Salt River Project (SRP). For current information, phone the SRP at (602) 236-5929. These fluctuations result in rocks and other obstacles - the water surface. Be aware that this involves a degree of risk and the boat operator assumes all such responsibilities.


Fishing and Hunting
Fishing

The Cave Creek Complex burned over 248,310 acres and is the largest fire recorded in the Sonoran Desert . Due to the fires large size, multiple watersheds were affected by ash flows once the monsoons arrived. Tonto Forest fishery personnel Todd Willard, Bob Calamusso and Carol Engle in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Arizona Game and Fish Department conducted fish salvage operations at Lime Creek, Silver Creek and Camp Creek. Salvages were conducted in order to preserve rare southwestern fishes which exhibit unique genetic variability. Endangered Gila topminnow occupied Lime Creek for over 20 years and are one of the thirteen populations on the Tonto. Gila chub - species that has been petitioned for listing by US Fish and Wildlife Service under the Endangered species act, were successfully salvaged from Silver Creek. Both species are being held at the Bubbling Ponds State Fish Hatchery. Additionally, Forest Service sensitive speckled dace that inhabited Camp Creek were captured and transported to the Phoenix Zoo. This race of speckled dace found in Camp Creek -re particularly unique due to their large size as compared to other stocks on the Tonto Forest . All three species will be held in captivity until stream conditions improve. All agencies involved are commended on the proactive approach to saving unique species before they are removed by ash flows.




More Info

...ven tribes are vying for burial rights to more than 1,000 Native American skeletons and accompanying funerary items found in the Tonto National Forest some 80 miles northeast of Phoenix.
for Native American Human Remains and Associated Funerary Objects in the Control of Tonto National Forest, United States Forest Service, Phoenix -Z AGENCY National Park Service ACTION Notice
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> ARIZONA -> Tonto National Forest Photographs Tonto National ForestPhotographs Sunset over the desert beside AZ 87, Tonto National Forest
...cover Globe -rizona, Globe is located in the heart of Arizonas magnificent Tonto National Forest and is surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain vistas in the Southwest. It has a
...enture Hummer Guided Tour Operators in the Sonoran Desert Tonto National Forest from Scottsdale Phoenix Arizona.National Geographic

Tonto National Forest