Attractions and Places To See in Gila County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Gila County encompass a diverse array of natural landscapes and cultural sites. This region features vast forests, significant lakes, and ancient ruins, offering a range of exploration opportunities. Visitors can discover the Mogollon Rim, Roosevelt Lake, and various historical landmarks. The area provides access to both its natural beauty and rich heritage.
Best attractions and places to see in Gila County
- The most popular attractions is Arizona Trail gate at Highline Trail, a trail feature designed to manage access. These heavy-duty steel gates, crafted by master metalsmith Rob Bauer, are a distinctive element of the Arizona Trail.
- Another must-see spot is Fossil Springs, a river known for its blue-green pools. It is a popular location for swimming and hiking, though reservations may be required at certain times of the year.
- Visitors also love Inspiration Point - Arizona Trail, a viewpoint offering expansive vistas. From this location, one can observe the longest two-lane inverted arch suspension bridge in America and Roosevelt Lake, the largest lake in central Arizona.
- Gila County is known for its ancient ruins, vast forests, and significant lakes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from archaeological parks to natural monuments.
- The attractions in Gila County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 7 upvotes and 3 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Arizona Trail gate at Highline Trail
Highlight • Trail
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Washington Park Trailhead & East Verde River
Highlight • Trail
The East Verde River is a reliable source of water, and camping opportunities are available right along the river. A trail register is located a little further east.
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Roosevelt Lake Marina & Shop
Highlight • Rest Area
For replenishing supplies, the store is of limited use, as it is quite expensive and offers only a small selection of snacks.
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Salt River - White Mountain Apache Tribal Reservation, Arizona
Highlight • Canyon
From Globe follow the AZ-77 / US-60 north-east for 38.2 miles. After crossing a bridge over the Salt river, immediately make a left turn, there usually are tribal reservation information signs. You can park here to start hiking or follow the usually well-maintained gravel road about 4.25 miles to where Cibecue Creek flows across the road. The parking area is before the creek, which can be impossible to cross in a regular car.
You can go rafting on the river, continue to hike or mountain bike further along Salt River on the gravel road/trail on the other side of the creek, or go canyoneering in the Cibecue Creek, see komoot.com/highlight/151959 (Danger: Flash Floods, do not enter if it might have rained in the mountains).
A White Mountain Apache Tribal permit is needed to hike or do other recreation here (rafting seems popular). There is a self-registration booth at the turnoff from Hwy 60, but no self-registration envelopes nor staff were available to sell one in November 2013, so better buy permits online before reaching this out-of-phone-signal area:
wmatoutdoor.org/purchase_permit.html - It asks to create a username/password. Click on Special Use Permit, Black River/Salt River, $15.00 as of 2013.
Update 2020: $30 per person for the Cibecue Falls; $9 for vehicle recreation.
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Salt River Canyon - Cibecue Creek Crossing
Highlight • Canyon
On AZ-77 / US-60 about 38.2 miles north-east of Globe, after a bridge over the Salt river, immediately make a left turn, there usually are tribal reservation information signs. You can follow the usually well-maintained gravel road about 4.25 miles to where Cibecue Creek flows across the road. If there has not been rain recently upstream, you can push or carry the bike across Cibecue Creek to continue mountain biking further along Salt River on the gravel road/trail, or go canyoneering up into the Cibecue Creek canyon, see komoot.com/highlight/151959 (Danger: Flash Floods, do not enter if it might have rained in the mountains).
A White Mountain Apache Tribal permit is needed to bike or do other recreation here (rafting seems popular). There is a self-registration booth at the turnoff from Hwy 60, but no self-registration envelopes nor staff were available, so better buy permits online before reaching this out-of-phone-signal area:
wmatoutdoor.org/purchase_permit.html - It asks to create a username/password. Click on Special Use Permit, Black River/Salt River: $30 per person for the Cibecue Falls; $9 for vehicle recreation as of 2025.
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Fossil Springs
Highlight • River
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Barnhardt Road 🌵 Payson, Eastern Arizona
Highlight • Trail
Three-and-a-half miles up Barnhardt Trail’s many switchbacks, you will arrive at a grotto in the mountainside. A shallow pool of cool water, often dry in the summer, flows out of the almost hidden waterfall a few yards back in the narrow opening in the grotto.
Moderate difficulty for mountain biking for the first few miles, then it is best to leave the bike and hike the last mile or so to the first falls.
The trail begins at Barnhardt Trailhead, four miles west from highway 260. The dirt road is usually well maintained and easily accessible by a passenger car when dry. After rains it is best to leave the car before tire tracks become too deep and muddy. But even if started further below the landscape approaching the mountains is beautiful. The dirt road dead ends at the trailhead with a large parking area. This trailhead serves both Barnhardt Trail #43 and Y-Bar Trail #44 which heads southwest.
arizonahikersguide.com/barnhardt-trail
paysonroundup.com/news/2012/apr/11/hiking-barnhardt-trail
fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/null/recarea/?recid=35281&actid=50
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Arizona Trail at Roosevelt Lake Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
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Mogollon Rim
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Inspiration Point - Arizona Trail
Highlight • Viewpoint
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It is remote, outside Payson, AZ but a great hike with some climbing and a fun spot to see where the railroad tunnel was started.
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The gravel road into Salt River Canyon in the White Mountain Apache Tribal Reservation is a breathtakingly beautiful valley in an otherwise starkly dry and hostile rugged mountain desert. Summer can be extremely hot, fall is comfortable. On AZ-77 / US-60 about 38.2 miles north-east of Globe, after a bridge over the Salt river, immediately make a left turn, there usually are tribal reservation information signs. You can follow the usually well-maintained gravel road about 4.25 miles to where Cibecue Creek flows across the road. If there has not been rain recently upstream, you can push or carry the bike across Cibecue Creek to continue mountain biking further along Salt River on the gravel road/trail, or go canyoneering up into the Cibecue Creek canyon, see https://www.komoot.com/highlight/151959 (Danger: Flash Floods, do not enter if it might have rained in the mountains). A White Mountain Apache Tribal permit is needed to bike or do other recreation here (rafting seems popular). There is a self-registration booth at the turnoff from Hwy 60, but no self-registration envelopes nor staff were available, so better buy permits online before reaching this out-of-phone-signal area: https://wmatoutdoor.org/purchase_permit.html - It asks to create a username/password. Click on Special Use Permit, Black River/Salt River: $30 per person for the Cibecue Falls; $9 for vehicle recreation as of 2025.
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Salt River Canyon in the White Mountain Apache Tribal Reservation is a breathtakingly beautiful valley in an otherwise starkly dry and hostile rugged mountain desert. Summer can be extremely hot, fall is comfortable. On AZ-77 / US-60 about 38.2 miles north-east of Globe, after a bridge over the Salt river, immediately make a left turn, there usually are tribal reservation information signs. You can follow the usually well-maintained gravel road about 4.25 miles to where Cibecue Creek flows across the road. From the parking area it is normally possible to walk or carry the bike across Cibecue creek, if there has not been rain recently upstream. You can go rafting on the Salt river, continue to mountain bike further along Salt River on the gravel road/trail on the other side of the creek, or go canyoneering in the Cibecue Creek, see https://www.komoot.com/highlight/151959 (Danger: Flash Floods, do not enter if it might have rained in the mountains). A White Mountain Apache Tribal permit is needed to hike or do other recreation here (rafting seems popular). There is a self-registration booth at the turnoff from Hwy 60, but no self-registration envelopes nor staff were available, so better buy permits online before reaching this out-of-phone-signal area: https://wmatoutdoor.org/purchase_permit.html - It asks to create a username/password. Click on Special Use Permit, Black River/Salt River, $30 per person for the Cibecue Falls; $9 for vehicle recreation.
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Just north of Roosevelt Lake Bridge, there is a small parking area that can be used as a trailhead to get on or off the Arizona National Scenic Trail. It is also a nice viewpoint: Roosevelt Lake, the mighty bridge and one of the typical rust Arizona Trail signs make a great photo.
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The best view of the bridge is from the trail. It is best to go in the evening sun.
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Roosevelt Lake Marina is a full-service marina on the south side of Roosevelt Lake. Theodore Roosevelt Lake is 21,500 acres of water in size and encompasses 128 miles of sandy shoreline and crystal-clear water. Here, you can grab a burger and enjoy a refreshing waterfront break.
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Fossil Springs boasts beautiful blue-green pools, making it a popular spot for swimming and family hiking. It's important to keep in mind that you may need a reservation to hike here during certain times of the year.
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Inspiration Point is a unique overlook. You can see the longest two-lane inverted arch suspension bridge in America and you can see the largest lake in central Arizona, Roosevelt Lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural landmarks should I visit in Gila County?
Gila County boasts several impressive natural landmarks. You can explore the Mogollon Rim, a 200-mile-long escarpment offering stunning panoramic views. Another must-see is Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, home to what is believed to be the world's largest natural travertine bridge. For unique blue-green pools, visit Fossil Springs, a popular spot for swimming and hiking, though reservations may be required.
Where can I find historical and cultural sites in Gila County?
Gila County is rich in history. Discover the ancient Salado culture at Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park, a partially restored 200-room prehistoric pueblo near Globe. The Tonto National Monument also preserves cliff dwellings of the Salado culture. For local history, visit the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum in the Globe-Miami region or the Pine-Strawberry Museum in Pine.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in Gila County?
Yes, Gila County offers several family-friendly options. Fossil Springs, with its beautiful blue-green pools, is a popular spot for family hiking and swimming. Roosevelt Lake, Arizona's largest lake, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports. The Tonto Fish Hatchery is another engaging stop where visitors can learn about the trout life cycle and feed fish.
What are the best places for outdoor activities and hiking in Gila County?
Gila County is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The Tonto National Forest offers vast opportunities for hiking, camping, and water sports. The Pinal Mountains provide year-round activities including hiking and mountain biking. For specific trails, consider exploring routes like the Arizona Trail, which crosses diverse landscapes and offers stunning views. You can find more detailed hiking routes in the Hiking in Gila County guide.
Where can I go for scenic drives in Gila County?
For breathtaking scenic drives, explore the areas around the Mogollon Rim, which offers expansive views at elevations over 8,000 feet. The Salt River Canyon, accessible via AZ-77/US-60, provides a visually stunning journey through a rugged mountain desert. Additionally, the Arizona Trail offers scenic sections that can be enjoyed from nearby roads.
What are the options for water sports and recreation in Gila County?
Roosevelt Lake, as Arizona's largest lake, is a prime destination for water sports, including fishing, boating, and water skiing. San Carlos Apache Lake also provides opportunities for water skiing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. The Gila River Recreation Area offers small craft river floating in a scenic Sonoran Desert canyon.
What unique geological features can be found in Gila County?
Beyond the Tonto Natural Bridge, Gila County features the impressive Gila Conglomerate cliffs within the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area. The Salt River Canyon, carved by natural forces, showcases dramatic geological formations. The Mogollon Rim itself is a significant geological escarpment forming the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau.
Are there any specific viewpoints I should visit in Gila County?
Yes, for expansive vistas, visit Inspiration Point - Arizona Trail. From here, you can see the longest two-lane inverted arch suspension bridge in America and Roosevelt Lake. The Mount Ord Summit also offers gorgeous 360-degree views, including Saguaro Lake to the south.
What is there to do in the Strawberry and Pine areas of Gila County?
In the Pine and Strawberry areas, you can visit the Pine-Strawberry Museum to learn about the region's history. The historic Strawberry Schoolhouse is another notable landmark. These towns also serve as gateways to outdoor activities in the surrounding Tonto National Forest and near the Mogollon Rim, offering hiking and camping opportunities.
Where can I find ancient ruins and archaeological sites in Gila County?
Gila County is home to numerous ancient ruins. Besides Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park and Tonto National Monument, you can find sites like Goat Camp Ruins, Gisela Ruins, Kinishba Ruins, Pueblo Canyon Ruins, and Shoofly Indian Ruins. The Great Bend of the Gila is considered one of the most important cultural sites in the Southwest, featuring archaeological remains of ancestral Hohokam and Patayan cultures, including geoglyphs and rock art at Sears Point.
Are there any wilderness areas in Gila County for a more rugged experience?
Yes, the Hells Gate Wilderness, located at the base of the Mogollon Rim, offers a rugged experience with its 1,000-foot-deep canyon incised by upper Tonto Creek. This area is ideal for those seeking a more remote and challenging outdoor adventure.
What is the best time to visit Gila County for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Gila County for outdoor activities generally depends on the specific activity. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring. Summer can be very hot, especially in lower elevations, but higher elevation areas like the Mogollon Rim and Pinal Mountains provide cooler escapes. Winter offers unique hiking opportunities, though some higher elevation areas may experience snow.
Most popular routes in Gila County
Most popular attractions in Gila County
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