Last Sunday, my husband and I went to Tonto Natural Bridge, a half an hour drive from home to take some pictures. This was also a chance for us to get a good hike because the bridge is quite a drop off from the top. The drive down was very enjoyable with occasional stops to relish the sight and and capture some pictures. We even saw a couple of deer.

First, I would like to give a brief history of Tonto Natural Bridge. Many years ago, in the mid 1800, an American white, named David Gowan Godfellow stumbled in this area while being chased by Apache Indians. He hid in one of the caves for two nights and three days. The Apaches lost him and gave up a chase. On the third day, Gowan resurfaced and explored the area and eventually claimed rights on the territory.

He then persuaded his family from Scotland to live in this place permanently. Of course, why wouldn’t he love this place? It saved his life from the Apaches. Also, it is a beautiful place, tucked away in the tiny valley surrounded by a forest of pine trees. It has two nice springs that create two separate beautiful waterfalls. The bridge is believed to be the largest travertine in the world. The bridge stands 183 feet high over a 400-foot long tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point.


I didn’t get a good shot of the deer as they were too shy.

Waterfalls

Tunnel

Tonto Natural Bridge

Lodge that has been restored periodically and is filled with Gowan/Godfellow family heirlooms.

Stalactites under and along the ledges of the travertine leading to the cave.