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Tonto Natural Bridge State Park Celebrates 80
Years With ‘A Bridge Through Time’ May 12

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park will present "A Bridge Through Time" from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 12. There will be presentations and displays throughout the day (see full schedule below) to celebrate the 80th Birthday of the Historic Lodge.

Learn about the history of the lodge and have the opportunity to tour the interior of the building. Lodge tours are limited, so call ahead to reserve space at (928) 476-4202.

"A Bridge Through Time" will also celebrate Arizona State Parks' 50th anniversary. This will be a celebration with dignitaries and a cake cutting under the big tent at 10 a.m. 50th Anniversary displays will be featured, including activities for children.

For more information, call Tonto Natural Bridge State Park at (928) 476-4202. The park is located off Hwy 87, just 10 miles north of Payson. Park Entrance Fee is $3 per person for those aged 14 and up. Children aged 13 years and younger are free.

This event is part of Arizona State Parks 50th Anniversary celebration held from October 2006 through December 2007. Special events will be held at each park such as a traditional mariachi festival, plein air shows, an apple festival, geocaching, solar energy celebrations and astronomy galas.

Hiking, fishing, boating and mountain biking await those individuals with an adventurous attitude. Come uncover the many secret places and stories that are still to be found in Arizona's State Parks. RVers can follow the 50th anniversary schedule to discover many great destinations in the state.

The Arizona State Parks Board was established in 1957 to acquire and manage park and cultural areas. Over the years, legislation has added other programs to Arizona State Parks and as a result, the volunteer Board is responsible for a much broader spectrum of duties.

These duties are related to historic preservation, archaeology, outdoor recreation, resource conservation/education and grant administration.

For information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit www.azstateparks.com.



"A Bridge Through Time" Schedule

9:30a.m. – 4 p.m.- Programs, demonstrations and displays

10 a.m. - 50th Anniversary presentation and cake cutting
Speakers: Ken Travous, executive director, Arizona State Parks
Jay Ream, assistant director, Arizona State Parks

11 a.m. - Anna Mae Deming, great grand-niece of David Gowan, will speak about the early days living on and developing the property. This is exciting history about one of the first guest ranches in the Rim Country and tourism in Arizona.

12 p.m. - Mark Randall and family will talk about living on the property and operating the facility from 1948 to 1985 with more exciting history.

1 p.m., 3 p.m. - Tours of the historic Natural Bridge Lodge are limited to 10 people at a time. This year marks the 80th birthday of the historic lodge. This is a rare opportunity to tour the interior of the building prior to renovations for re-opening.