At over 2.9 million acres, the Tonto National Forest is the largest national forest in Arizona, and the seventh largest national forest among 154 USDA National Forests.
The Tonto features some of the most rugged and inherently beautiful land in the country. Sonoran Desert cacti and flat lands slowly give way to the highlands of the Mogollon Rim. This variety in vegetation and range in altitude -- from 1,300 to 7,900 feet -- offers outstanding recreational opportunities throughout the year, whether it's lake beaches or cool pine forest. Read more about the Tonto National Forest.
On October 23 the court issued an order approving the recently filed stipulation to modify the ongoing court-ordered injunction, allowing select timber management activities to resume. These activities include the cutting of the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree, personal Christmas tree cutting, the cutting of personal use forest products such as vigas and latillas, special product collection by tribes for ceremonial purposes, and the cutting of certain hazard trees.
We continue to extend our gratitude to our state and federal partners and countless community leaders for their continued support. We are committed to being as open and transparent as possible in notifying interested groups and individuals when we take steps aimed at alleviating the stressors of the recent court-ordered injunction.
To protect public health and safety, and the health and safety of our employees and volunteers, and reflecting federal and state guidance to limit the spread of COVID-19, developed recreation sites are currently closed and group sizes are limited in other areas.
Managing a national forest like the Tonto National Forest requires the efforts of not only dedicated employees, but many partners and volunteers. Find out how you can help!
Within Arizona, black bears live in most forest, woodland and chaparral habitats, and desert riparian areas, primarily at elevations from 4,000 to 10,000 feet.
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