Tonto Creek (Hellsgate to Gisela) (2BIII)

Location: Tonto National Forest, near Payson, AZ
Rating: Basic Canyoneering 2B III to 2BV depending on travel plans
Length: 6 to 10 hours or overnight
Mileage: ~17 miles along Tonto Creek from the Hellsgate confluence to Gisela. Approximately 25 miles total when including the Hellsgate Trail approach.
Longest Rappel: None
Start: Hellsgate Trailhead
End: Near Gisela (FR 417 gate)
Permits: None
Wetsuit: Optional depending on season
Shuttle: Optional

Overview: Tonto Creek offers a scenic creek canyon route featuring flowing water, pools, boulder hopping, and lush riparian vegetation. This route is best considered a non technical canyon hike with canyoneering characteristics.

The route begins at the confluence of Haigler Creek and Tonto Creek and continues downstream toward Gisela. Expect extended creek travel with frequent water crossings, sections of boulder hopping, and occasional deeper pools that may require wading or swimming.

This is a classic Arizona creek hike that combines canyon scenery with moderate endurance and route finding.

Approach: While you may opt for out and back you can also setup a shuttle. Shuttle Setup: From the junction of Hwy 260 and Hwy 87 in Payson, head south on Hwy 87 for approximately 11.8 miles. Turn left (east) toward Gisela and follow Forest Road 417 through the community. Continue approximately 6.5 to 7 miles from the highway to a locked gate. Park your exit vehicle here.

Road conditions are generally passable but may vary depending on weather.

After staging your shuttle, return to Payson and take Hwy 260 east for approximately 11.2 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 405A. The Hellsgate Trailhead is located approximately 0.4 miles down this road on the right. Parking is available at the trailhead.

Route Description: Begin on the Hellsgate Trail, which starts as a jeep road before transitioning into a defined footpath. The trail gradually descends toward the canyon, eventually reaching the confluence of Haigler Creek and Tonto Creek.

From the confluence, begin traveling downstream along Tonto Creek toward Gisela.

Expect:

• Frequent creek crossings
• Boulder hopping and uneven terrain
• Sections of brush and vegetation
• Pools that may require wading or swimming
• Route finding along the creek corridor
• Desert snakes and other wildlife

Travel is primarily within or alongside the creek, and conditions may vary depending on water flow.

Water Conditions

• Water is typically present year round
• Expect frequent wading
• Swimming may be required in deeper pools
• Conditions vary depending on season and recent rainfall

Continue downstream until reaching the lower access near the locked gate along Forest Road 417. Exit the canyon and follow the road back to your shuttle vehicle.