Things to Do in Payson, Arizona
I thought this mountain town in Arizona’s Rim Country was such a hidden gem! It’s ruggedly beautiful in a rustic, outdoorsy kind of way with rolling pine-clad hills, red-rock outcrops, winding scenic byways, and a backdrop of the Mogollon Rim stretching dramatically across the horizon.
I loved how it had a laid-back, small-town vibe mixed with Western heritage and a strong outdoors culture. It sits in central Arizona, surrounded by the largest stand of ponderosa pines in the world, and is home to around 10,000 people today.
I stayed at 3-star Kohl's Ranch Lodge for three days and explored the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park (a spectacular limestone arch), wandered through the historic Main Street with its old-west style shops, and hiked on the trails at Horton Creek with waterfalls tumbling through the forest.
I also learned about local Native American history at the Rim Country Museum, spotted wild elk in the meadows, and took a scenic drive up to the Mogollon Rim Road for sweeping views across the high country. I enjoyed stargazing under the famously dark skies, sampling hearty Southwestern fare in friendly local diners, and relaxing with a coffee on a patio surrounded by mountain air. Beautiful views seemed to appear around every bend. I’m a huge fan and here are my favorite spots I’d love to share with you.
1. Mogollon Rim
We discovered the Mogollon Rim just northeast of Payson, and it felt like discovering the edge of the world. I loved it immediately and I it's the first thing that jumps to mind when asked about best things to do in Payson, Arizona.
This sweeping escarpment stretches for nearly 200 miles and towers more than 7,000 feet above sea level, with cliffs that drop dramatically into the forested valleys below. It’s not only a geological marvel but also one of Arizona’s most breathtaking natural escapes.
Standing at the rim, the views go on forever—pine-studded plateaus, rugged canyons, and hazy blue ridges fading into the horizon. The contrast between high-country coolness and the desert floor far below makes it one of the most striking places in the state.
Exploring Mogollon Rim is endlessly rewarding. We drove along sections of Rim Road (Forest Road 300), where each overlook seemed to outdo the last. Trails wind through Ponderosa pines, leading to hidden lakes, streams, and quiet spots where elk and deer wander by. It’s one of the best ways to truly feel the wildness of Arizona.
Just remember that the weather can shift quickly up here, and afternoon storms are common in summer, so packing layers is smart.
Picnicking under the tall pines was a highlight, especially when paired with the crisp mountain air.
2. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
We came across Tonto Natural Bridge State Park just outside of Payson, and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable stops on our Arizona trip.
This natural wonder is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world—a massive arch standing 183 feet high and stretching 150 feet wide, carved by Pine Creek over countless years. Walking beneath it feels almost otherworldly, like stepping into a hidden cathedral of stone.
The park is full of short but rewarding trails that lead to different vantage points. Some wind down into the gorge, where you can stand at the base and look up at the bridge’s towering arch, while others offer panoramic overlooks from above. Everywhere we turned, there was a new perspective to admire.
I think that Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is one of the best things to do in Arizona. Why? For me, Tonto Natural Bridge is the perfect mix of natural drama and peaceful retreat—a one-of-a-kind experience that feels both grand and intimate.
The Goodfellow Lodge, part of the park, is historic and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
3. Step Back in Time at the Rim Country Museum
We wandered into the Rim Country Museum & Zane Grey Cabin in Payson for an hour, and I loved how it felt like stepping straight into Arizona’s frontier past.
The museum tells the story of life in the Mogollon Rim country, from Native American history to early pioneer days, ranching, logging, and even mining. Every room is filled with artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that make the area’s history come alive in a really tangible way.
My highlight is how the museum is run with genuine passion by local historians and volunteers, and it shows. It’s a reminder of just how extraordinary the “ordinary” lives of pioneers really were.
4. Relax by the Water at Green Valley Park
We found ourselves at Green Valley Park in the heart of Payson, and it quickly became one of those places you never want to leave that completely won me over.
Spread out over rolling lawns and shaded by tall pines, the park feels like a refreshing escape right in town.
Walking the pathways around the lakes was such a peaceful highlight. Families were out picnicking, kids feeding ducks, and anglers casting lines while the cool breeze swept off the Rim. It has that easygoing small-town charm that makes you want to slow down and just take it all in.
For me, Green Valley Park is the perfect hidden gem, a blend of scenic beauty, relaxation, and local flavor—a place where you can wander, play, or simply sit under a tree and watch the world go by.
My highlight were its three sparkling lakes—perfect for fishing, paddling, or just sitting on the shore watching the water shimmer in the mountain sun.
5. Mazatzal Hotel and Casino
We made a stop at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino in Payson for three hours, and it turned out to be a fun mix of entertainment and relaxation with a real mountain-town twist.
The casino floor has all the excitement you’d expect—rows of slot machines, table games, and a lively energy that makes it easy to settle in for a while. But what surprised us most was how much more there is beyond the gaming.
The attached hotel is comfortable and welcoming, with spacious rooms and views of the surrounding Rim Country. After a day of exploring Payson or hiking nearby trails, it’s a great spot to wind down and recharge.
Dining here is also a treat. From hearty breakfasts to late-night bites, the on-site restaurant keeps you fueled, and the bar is a fun place to relax with a drink while catching a game.
For me, Mazatzal is the perfect blend of play, comfort, and mountain atmosphere—a place where you can try your luck, enjoy good food, and still feel rooted in the beauty of Rim Country.
6. Dig into the Past at Naco Paleo Site
Visiting Naco Paleo Site for two hours was like stepping back hundreds of millions of years into Arizona’s prehistoric past.
This remarkable spot is one of the few places in the state where you can actually search for and find real marine fossils—remnants from an ancient sea that once covered the region. Think brachiopods, crinoids, and coral imprints, all preserved in stone and waiting to be uncovered.
Walking around the site feels a little like being part geologist, part explorer. The terrain is rugged but accessible, and it doesn’t take long before you start spotting tiny fossils right at your feet. Kids love the thrill of discovery, and for adults it’s a fascinating reminder of just how old and ever-changing the land really is.
What makes it extra special is that it’s hands-on. In fact, you’re encouraged to look, learn, and even collect small specimens, which makes the experience far more immersive than a traditional museum visit.
For me, the Naco Paleo Site is the perfect blend of science, adventure, and pure curiosity—a chance to connect with deep time in a way that feels both exciting and humbling.
7. Walk Among the Ancients at Shoofly Indian Ruins
What makes Shoofly so special is its setting. The quiet pine forest and open skies give the site a sense of peace and reverence, as if the land itself remembers the stories of those who came before. It’s not a flashy stop, but it carries a quiet power that lingers with you.
Shoofly Ruins is the perfect blend of history, landscape, and reflection, a place where the past feels close enough to touch.
My personal highlight was standing in the center of the village site, surrounded by the low stone walls, and picturing the community that once bustled with life. It felt like the land itself was whispering its stories.
8. Cool Off at Ellison Creek Waterfall
Ellison Creek Waterfall, tucked away in the pine forests near Payson, felt like stumbling into one of Rim Country’s best-kept secrets.
The hike in is short but a little rugged but then finding a waterfall feels like striking gold.
The pool at the base is a favorite for a refreshing dip on hot summer days, and even just sitting by the edge with your feet in the water is enough to cool off and recharge. The surrounding cliffs and tall trees make it feel like a natural hideaway—peaceful, secluded, and worth every step to get there.
What makes Ellison Creek especially magical is the way it contrasts with the high desert landscapes around Payson. Here, the sound of rushing water and the cool mist rising from the falls create a micro-oasis that feels worlds away.
For me, Ellison Creek Waterfall is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, a little hike, a lot of beauty, and a memory that feels like you’ve uncovered something truly special. Ellison Creek Cascades trail is rated 4.6/5.
My highlight moment was sitting on a sun-warmed rock by the pool, listening to the falls crash down, and realizing how rare and wonderful it is to find a place like this in Arizona.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
