Tonto National Monument

Tonto National Monument preserves well-preserved cliff dwellings created by the Salado culture in what is now central Arizona.

The site includes two cliff-dwelling complexes - commonly described as Upper and Lower - that visitors can view by short trails and overlooks; the lower dwelling is more accessible to most visitors.

Archaeological evidence shows the cliff communities were occupied by farmers and interregional peoples during the pre-Columbian era and provide insights into regional trade and lifeways.

Tonto National Monument sits on a mesa above the Salt River valley and Roosevelt Lake area, within Tonto National Forest east of the Phoenix metropolitan area.

• Two Cliff Dwellings: Contains two distinct cliff-dwelling sites built by the prehistoric Salado culture and occupied roughly between the 13th and 15th centuries.

What to See#

• Lower Cliff Dwelling: A cliff-site known as the Lower Cliff Dwelling that is reached by a short trail and provides interpretive signage and close views of multi-room habitation alcoves.
• Upper Cliff Dwelling: A higher-elevation Upper Cliff Dwelling located above the lower site; access is typically by steeper trails and may be limited seasonally or require ranger-guided visits.

• Plan an early-morning visit to avoid Arizona heat and to get the best light for photographing the cliff dwellings.
• The Lower Cliff Dwelling is reached by a short trail from the visitor center, while access to the Upper Cliff Dwelling is frequently limited to ranger-led hikes-verify availability and sign-up details on the National Park Service site before you travel.
• Download park maps and interpretive material ahead of time and confirm seasonal road or trail closures-cell service can be unreliable in the monument area.