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Length: It is difficult to accurately report the distance of a trail as long this one, especially as some debate exists where the western terminus of the trail is. Without a doubt, typical Tonto trail terrain extends westward from the South Bass Trail to near the edge of Garnet Canyon.  We will define the trail as beginning at Indian Garden and ending at the Bass Canyon junction, a distance we estimate to be about 50 miles.

Water: Perennial sources along or near the West Tonto Trail include Indian Garden, Monument Creek, Hermit Creek, Boucher Creek, Slate Creek, and the Colorado River. Seasonal water sources along or near this trail include Horn Creek, Salt Creek, Cedar Spring, Sapphire Canyon, Turquoise Canyon, Ruby Canyon, Serpentine Canyon, and Bass Canyon. Always check with the Backcountry Information Center prior to a trek for water reports.

Campsites: There is no camping between Horn Creek and Indian Garden. Proceeding west there is only designated camping at Horn Creek, Salt Creek, Cedar Spring, Monument Creek, Granite Rapids, Hermit Creek, and Hermit Rapids. West of Hermit Canyon all the way to Bass Canyon is designated at-large camping.  Here you will find camps in nearly every side-canyon and along the Tonto platform in between side-canyons.

Reflections and Attractions: There is so much to do and see along this trail it’s hard to know where to start.  All of the highlights certainly can’t be experienced in just one trip. Views along the entire length are spectacular, especially along the platforms between side-canyons. Every side-canyon has great opportunities for exploration, and many supply access to The River (which can be handy in an emergency). A few of our favorite haunts along this trek include Monument Creek, Hermit Creek, Boucher Creek, Sapphire Canyon, and Ruby Canyon.

Warnings and Musings: The section of this trail between Boucher Creek and Bass Canyon is rugged and remote. Keep this in mind as any rescue or evacuation you may need could take a long time. The trail is also indistinct in places, so much so that you will almost certainly lose the trail at least briefly a couple times, but if you have the proper GC routefinding experience it shouldn’t be a problem. This trail can be deadly during the hot season, so plan and hike accordingly. Part of this trail falls outside the “no fly zone” and you may be treated to an annoying procession of helicopters throughout the day.