Location: Payson
Top Things to do in Payson
Countries
5 Nature & Wildlife Areas in Payson That You Shouldn't Miss
Payson is a town in northern Gila County, Arizona, United States. Its location puts it very near to the geographic center of Arizona. Payson has been called "The Heart of Arizona". The town is surrounded by the Tonto National Forest and has many outdoor activities year round. As of the 2010 census, the population of Payson was 15,301.
Restaurants in Payson
1. Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 149 reviews
Reviewed By Dexteramericus
Very nice!! was very excited to see this, and WOW, the Thousands upon Thousands of fish, in different growth stages.... EXCELENT place to visit... AND, IT'S FREE !!!
2. Water Wheel Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 54 reviews
Reviewed By Akkapo - Sydney, Australia
I wasn’t sure if we should go here but am so glad we did, it was so beautiful!! You do have to pay $10 in cash to park. Would be lovely to go and spend a few hours or picnic. My dog loved it although he wasn’t able to cross the stream where the trail heads that way (although there is no particular place marked). Short trail but a lovely place to stop by!
3. Rancho Tonto Catch-A-Trout
4. Kohls Ranch Stable
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 60 reviews
Horseback Rides in the Forest, Trail Rides, Adventure Rides. Horseback Riding Lessons every day on site. Rides ARE 1.5 HOURS FOR $75. Riders are taken up the mountain on a very beautiful trail with through the woods and to the top of the mountain where there are some very very old growth trees. Great place for pictures as you can see the rim from there and all the mountain tops. We often see deer and some elk and many squirrels and birds.
Reviewed By 594cliffordl
Joe our guide was great. The ride was scenic and absolutely beautiful. The horses were selected based on his conversations with the riders and he did a great job. We didn't get to see any elk but he tried to call them out. We did get to get wild horses and they were amazing to see. The trail was beautiful and not just a flat walk around. We got to the the rim like no others get to see it! Highly recommend. Wish we lived closer.
5. East Verde Picnic Area
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
Seeking refuge from the summer heat, visitors flock to the forest's rivers and lakes, as well as to the calm streams and the cool shade of tall pines in the Mogollon Rim. Many opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking the rugged terrain. Birdwatching and wildlife watching for hawks, eagles, javalina, white tail deer, and coyotes.
