I left Phoenix about 10 am and headed north on highway 87. In less than an hour, the road climbed higher into the foothills of the Arizona Central Mountains and I entered Tonto National Forest. At the time, I found it difficult to warm to the idea that a National Forest included desert and brust, but as I came closer to Payson, I was at an altitude that produced thick and tall pine trees.
I stopped in Payson for some supplies and then drove north to Tonto Natural Bridge SP. Over the centuries, the Pine river eroded the soft limestone underground and formed the world’s largest natural bridge. Well… It all depends on how you define largest-there is another one somewhere that is higher but not as thick. I took a few pictures but didn’t walk to the bottom of the gorge where the best views are-I am still babying my knee.
I’m writing this in a camping place in the Coconino National Forest, about 50 miles south of Winslow. There are pull-outs with fire-rings all along the forest road, so I don’t think anyone will mind if I stay. The altitude must be around 7000 feet and it’s getting dark and cold. No signal so I will try for a wifi spot tomorrow.
I didn’t realize you were leaving Phoenix so soon, and now the weather report states that there in rain in Northern Arizona. However, we are supposed to get rain tomorrow, so you are just one day early, and you are surely used to rain.
Keep in touch.
I think it is OK to camp anywhere in the National Forest, except in areas where it is expressly prohibited.
The journey of 10,000 miles begins with a single tank of gas.
I’ve hiked that short trail down to the Tonto Natural Bridge a couple of times. It’s really pretty; and a nice little park.