6 Natural Wonders To Look For Within Arizona's Tonto National Forest

Located south of Flagstaff and north of Phoenix, Arizona's Tonto National Forest sprawls across a total of 2.9 million acres. This makes it one of the seven largest national forests in America, ranking among giants such as Montana's Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and Wyoming's Bridger-Teton National Forest. Given Tonto's size, it makes sense that this natural area hosts a diverse collection of ecosystems, from pine-filled forests to Mogollon Rim highlands. However, Arizona's reputation as a hot and dry desert region can sometimes obscure just how multifaceted its landscapes are.

While there are many ways to explore the natural wonders of Tonto National Forest, I recently discovered some of them during an off-roading adventure hosted by BRP Experiences in Cave Creek, Arizona. Covering roughly 80 miles of ground and reaching elevations of over 4,000 feet, this excursion allowed me an up-close view of the area's most beautiful sights. Here are eight that you can look for the next time you find yourself in Tonto National Forest.

The desert is a likely place for cacti to live, but don't overlook the unique charms of the cholla species in particular. Found in numerous places throughout Tonto National Forest, cholla cacti have fine spines that almost seem to glow when hit by sunlight. Of course, those same spines can present an unexpected danger to be cautious of, but sightseers who know to check their clothes and shoes for these prickly pests shouldn't worry too much. For an extra scenic view, look for these cacti in late spring, when their flowers come into bloom.

Clocking in at 192 miles long, Arizona's Verde River is a refreshing sight that snakes through Tonto National Forest. To the north, the Upper Verde River helps foster key habitats for critters in the Upper Verde River Wildlife Area (home to fish such as the endangered spikedace). Meanwhile, to the south, you'll find the 40.5-mile section of water known as the Lower Verde River. This National Wild and Scenic River is one of just two in Arizona, the other being Fossil Creek (a tributary of the Verde River). In between the river's upper and middle stretches, travelers can also enjoy one of Arizona's newest state parks.

Gopher snakes (specifically Sonoran gopher snakes) are commonly found in woodland, desert scrub, and other habitats throughout Tonto National Forest. Though sometimes mistaken for rattlesnakes, this species is non-venomous but may still strike if feeling threatened. Of course, like many other wild animals, the gopher snake is unlikely to bother people who keep their distance. Wildlife enthusiasts keen to spot one should keep an eye out for snakes between 3 and 8 feet long with beige-toned bodies and dark spots. Remember to look carefully, as these animals are well-suited for blending into a desert environment.

Never heard of a javelina? If so, you might think they're related to pigs at first glance. However, while both animals are hoofed mammals, they belong to entirely different families. For the best chance at spotting a javelina in Tonto National Forest, set out early in the day or wait until the evening, as this species is often most active during times of the day when temperatures are cooler. You'll know you've seen one when you smell their infamously strong, musky odor.

You can't have a forest without trees, and Tonto's alligator junipers are a particularly fascinating tree to witness. Native to the southwest, this juniper has distinctive checkered bark often said to resemble alligator skin. This evergreen species often grows up to 50 feet tall, and its green foliage has a scent sometimes described as clean and cedar-like. In this area of Arizona, you can even discover one of the world's most famous alligator junipers — the Medusa Mother Tree. Having lived through several wildfires, this one tree is estimated to be between 600 and 1,000 years old.

Rounding out this list of natural wonders within Tonto National Forest are the Superstition Mountains. They sit only about 40 miles east of Phoenix, but the views can make you feel like you're on another planet. Estimated to have formed over 17 million years ago, the Superstitions reach heights of over 6,000 feet and stretch across more than 160,000 acres.

Hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails give visitors plenty of ways to explore the area, but remember to practice caution during your trip. This popular but dangerous hiking spot can be treacherous for those who arrive ill-prepared.