Tonto Pass Types & Pricing
Three passes are accepted at Tonto National Forest recreation sites. Choose the one that fits how often you visit.
| Pass | Cost | Duration | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tonto Daily Pass | $8 | 1 day | Tonto National Forest only |
| Tonto Discovery Pass | $80 | 1 year | Tonto National Forest only |
| America the Beautiful Pass | $80 | 1 year | All federal recreation sites (2,000+) |
Discounts & free passes
Seniors (62+): The America the Beautiful Senior Pass costs $80 for a lifetime pass. It covers all federal recreation sites including Tonto National Forest.
Military: Active-duty military and dependents qualify for a free annual America the Beautiful Military Pass. Veterans and Gold Star Families qualify for a free lifetime pass.
4th graders: Free annual pass through the Every Kid Outdoors program.
Where to Buy a Tonto Pass
Tonto daily passes ($8) are sold at 203+ authorized vendors across 32 Arizona cities, including gas stations, convenience stores, and outdoor retailers near the forest.
The Tonto Discovery Pass ($80/year) can be purchased at select vendors or online through the Forest Service. The America the Beautiful pass is available at recreation.gov.
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Where Is a Tonto Pass Required?
A Tonto Pass is required at most developed recreation sites in the Tonto National Forest. This includes day-use areas, boat ramps, picnic areas, and many trailheads. Check the Forest Service website for the complete list.
Lakes
- Saguaro Lake — Butcher Jones Beach, Saguaro del Norte, Bagley Flat, Marina
- Canyon Lake — Boulder Recreation Site, Acacia Picnic Area, boat ramp
- Apache Lake — Apache Lake Marina, Burnt Corral Campground
- Bartlett Lake — Bartlett Flat, Rattlesnake Cove, SB Cove, Jojoba
- Roosevelt Lake — Windy Hill, Cholla, and other recreation sites
Popular Trailheads & River Areas
- Salt River — Coon Bluff, Phon D Sutton, Goldfield, Water Users, Pebble Beach, Blue Point
- Verde River — Needle Rock, Beasley Flat, Childs, Sheep Bridge
- Superstition Wilderness — First Water, Peralta, Lost Dutchman area
- Payson area — Horton Creek, Water Wheel Falls, East Verde River
Nearby Sites With Separate Fees
These popular destinations are near the Tonto National Forest but have their own fee system. Tonto Passes are not accepted at these sites.
Fossil Creek
Requires a separate permit via Recreation.gov ($6/vehicle, April–October only). Access includes the Bob Bear Trail (formerly Fossil Springs Trail) on the Tonto NF side. No fee or permit required October–March.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Arizona State Park near Payson featuring the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. Entrance fee: $7/adult, $4/child (6–13).
Lost Dutchman State Park
Arizona State Park at the base of the Superstition Mountains near Apache Junction. Entrance fee: $10/vehicle. Gateway to Flatiron via Siphon Draw Trail.
Tonto National Monument
National Park Service site near Roosevelt Lake with Salado cliff dwellings. Separate NPS entrance fee.
2026 Fee-Free Days
On these days, no Tonto Pass is needed at day-use recreation sites in national forests. Fees at developed campgrounds may still apply. View the official schedule.
All 9 fee-free days in 2026
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Mon, January 19
Presidents' Day
Mon, February 16
Memorial Day
Mon, May 25
National Get Outdoors Day
Sat, June 13
Independence Day
Sat, July 4
Constitution Day
Thu, September 17
National Public Lands Day
Sat, September 26
Theodore Roosevelt's Birthday
Tue, October 27
Veterans Day
Wed, November 11
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Tonto Pass cost?
Where can I buy a Tonto Pass near me?
Where is a Tonto Pass required?
What is the difference between a Tonto Pass and an America the Beautiful Pass?
Can I buy a Tonto Pass online?
What are the Tonto National Forest fee-free days?
Do I need a Tonto Pass for Saguaro Lake?
Do seniors or military get a free Tonto Pass?
Ready to Find a Vendor?
Use our interactive map to find the closest Tonto Pass vendor.
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