The Tonto National Forest, Arizona, embraces almost 3 million acres of rugged and spectacularly beautiful country, ranging from Saguaro cactus-studded desert to pine-forested mountains beneath 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.

As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited “urban” forests in the U.S. (approximately 5.8 million visitors annually). Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east. Read more about the Tonto National Forest

2018 Christmas Tree Permits - Sold Out!

The Tonto National Forest Christmas tree permits have been sold out.

More information on cutting your tree can be found on the 2018 Christmas Tree Permit page.

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Features

Salt River Horses

For questions regarding the horses contact Jacquelyn Hughes, Arizona Salt River Horse Liaison at (602) 542-0942. 

The Forest Service has entered into an agreement to work cooperatively with the State Department of Agriculture regarding the Salt River Horses.

Additional Work Needed on Travel Management Plan

The Tonto National Forest has begun the process of preparing a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for Travel Management on the Tonto National Forest.  

Spotlights

Ecological restoration along the Lower Salt River

A long-term ecological restoration project is underway on the Lower Salt River of the Tonto National Forest’s Mesa Ranger District in the area of the 2017 Cactus Fire.

Job Opportunities Available

The Tonto National Forest is looking for hardworking individuals to work in Recreation, Range, Wildlife or Fire for the 2019 season. 

Get Involved - Volunteer!

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!

Help Protect Bald Eagles by Giving them Space

Help protect the state’s 55 breeding pair of bald eagles, by giving them space as they begin rebuilding nests in preparation for laying eggs.