Mazatzal Wilderness

This wilderness now contains over 252,500 acres of the Tonto and Coconino National Forests. Established in 1940 and expanded to its present size in 1984, its name is from an old Indian culture in Mexico, and is correctly pronounced “Mah-zaht-zahl,” meaning “land of the deer.”

The eastern side of this wilderness consists predominantly of brush or Pine-covered mountains, sometimes broken by narrow, vertical-walled canyons. On its west side below the steep brush-covered foothills, the Verde River flows through the Sonoran Desert.

This river was designated by Congress in 1984 as Arizona’s only wild river area. Elevations range from 2,060 feet along the Verde River to 7,903 feet on Mazatzal Peak.

There is an extensive system of trails; their condition varies from very good to very poor. Several are unsuited for horses. A group size limitation of no more than 15 people and no more than 15 head of pack or saddle animals of any type is enforced yearlong.

Visitors may check with the
Cave Creek Ranger Station
(Phone: (480) 595- 3300)
for information about the west side of the wilderness, or the

Payson Ranger Station
(Phone: (928) 474- 7900)
for information on the east side.

A free recreation opportunity guide is also available at both locations or online at www.fs.fed.us/r3/ tonto.