Day Pass to Explore the Lost Mining City of Chrysotile

This Arizona tour offers an intriguing mix of history, adventure, and stunning desert scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the experience promises a rare peek into a forgotten mining town nestled in the Tonto National Forest. Expect to wander through abandoned buildings, swim in pristine creek pools, hike scenic canyons, and even peek inside a historic mine shaft.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its focus on authentic exploration—unlike typical guided visits, you get the freedom to craft your own adventure after the initial tour. The cost of $100 per person, including access to multiple sites and activities, strikes us as a solid value for a full day immersed in nature and history. A possible drawback might be the need for a good level of physical activity—expect some hikes and creek crossings.

This experience is best for adventurers and history enthusiasts looking for a hands-on day in the wild, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and exploration. Families with active kids, solo travelers craving solitude, or groups eager for off-the-beaten-path discoveries will find plenty to enjoy here.

Good To Know

• Authentic exploration of a privately owned, abandoned mining town
• Freedom to explore multiple scenic areas after the initial guided tour
• Stunning desert scenery with unique plants, wildflowers, and canyon views
• Opportunities for swimming, hiking, and photography
• Affordable price for a full day of adventure and discovery
• Good for active travelers comfortable with walking, creek crossings, and boulder scrambling

Discovering Chrysotile: A Ghost Town in the Heart of Nature

The tour centers around Chrysotile, a ghost mining town hidden within the vast Tonto National Forest. It’s a site that’s been off-limits to the public since 1945, adding an air of mystery and exclusivity. Your day begins with a short guided tour after the gates open at 9:00 am. Guides, like Andy, who received glowing reviews for their knowledge and friendliness, lead visitors through the remaining structures—jailhouse, schoolhouse, machine shop, barracks, and other abandoned buildings.

Hearing stories about the old miners and the town’s history as you walk through rusting buildings makes the experience more than just a sightseeing trip. Visitors consistently mention how guides like Andy make the visit engaging and informative, with many noting the detailed stories about the mining operations and the town’s final days.

The guided tour lasts about two hours, giving you a solid overview before you’re set free to explore at your own pace. You’ll also receive a detailed map highlighting the best spots, which encourages a sense of adventure and discovery as you venture into areas less traveled.

Self-guided Exploration: Endless Possibilities

After the initial tour, the real fun begins. The tour provider encourages you to freely explore the area, with options to visit waterfalls, swimming holes, mine entrances, and scenic vistas. The landscape is wild and untouched, perfect for those who enjoy forging their own path in nature.

Swimming Holes and Waterfalls

One standout spot is a swimming hole with a waterfall, accessible by hiking down the same trail miners used to carry ore out of the canyon. The cool water and the sound of cascading falls appeal to those seeking relief from Arizona’s heat. Reviewers like the Tripadvisor one mention the joy of swimming at such clear, natural pools, describing the water as “deep and cool”—ideal for a refreshing break.

Ash Creek and Mermaid Lagoon

Another favorite is Ash Creek, which offers a short hike along boulders and logs. You might find yourself walking in the creek, crossing over logs, or climbing over rocks. The trail leads to Mermaid Lagoon, a tranquil swimming spot with deep, cool water perfect for crayfish spotting and relaxing in nature. Reviewers describe Mermaid Lagoon as “beautiful” and “a fun place to find crayfish,” emphasizing its peaceful, untouched vibe.

Moon Canyon

For those craving a more adventurous hike, Moon Canyon features a winding trail over rocks, logs, and creek crossings. Visitors often enjoy exploring the conglomerate rock formations and taking photos of the unique landscape. The guide notes that in this area, you can play in the creek, explore the dam, and enjoy a snack amidst spectacular scenery.

Victory Mine and Guided Mine Tours

History buffs will appreciate the Victory Mine, the largest on the property. Though you’re free to peek inside the mine entrances, the guided tour at 4:00 pm offers an even deeper look into the mining techniques used here. Walking through the shafts, observing bats and tailing piles, and hearing stories about the mining operations enrich the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

The $100 fee covers all activities and grants access to the entire site, with the option to camp overnight. The tour runs daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, providing ample time to customize your day.

Transportation involves a short drive or ATV ride into the forest, with some reviewers mentioning the scenic descent on dirt roads through canyons and pine forests. Since the area is remote and the terrain rugged, comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection are recommended.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants being able to join. Service animals are permitted, making it accessible for those who need them. The landscape is rough in parts, so those with mobility issues might find some sections challenging, especially creek crossings and boulder-strewn trails.

Value and Overall Impression

At $100, the experience packs a lot of value—guided overview, multiple exploration sites, and the freedom to craft your own adventure. Unlike many touristic attractions, this allows for genuine discovery and personal interaction with Arizona’s wild side. The reviews underscore the quality of guides and the breathtaking views, confirming that this tour offers more than just sightseeing; it’s about experiencing a slice of history and nature firsthand.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This day pass is perfect for adventurous souls eager to explore a forgotten corner of Arizona. Families with active kids will enjoy the swimming and hiking, while history buffs will appreciate the stories and ruins. Solo travelers seeking solitude will find plenty of quiet spots to relax and photograph. Just be prepared for some physical activity and bring plenty of water.

If you love off-the-beaten-path experiences, scenic landscapes, and outdoor exploration, this tour offers a compelling way to spend a day reconnecting with nature and history in a pristine setting.

The Sum Up

The Day Pass to Explore the Lost Mining City of Chrysotile offers an authentic, flexible, and scenic adventure in Arizona’s Tonto National Forest. You’ll get a guided introduction to a fascinating ghost town, then have hours to explore waterfalls, swimming holes, canyons, and historic mines at your own pace.

The combination of stunning desert vistas, engaging history, and outdoor fun makes this experience stand out from typical day trips. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with some physical activity and crave a connection to wild, untouched landscapes. The affordable price point for a full day of exploration makes it a strong choice for those looking to escape crowds and discover a hidden piece of Arizona’s past.

Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a history enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a memorable outdoor experience, this tour promises a one-of-a-kind day in the wilderness.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The activities involve hiking and creek crossings, so active kids will enjoy it, but younger children may need supervision in some areas.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring plenty of water, sun protection, sturdy shoes for hiking and creek crossings, and any personal items you need for comfort or photography.

Can I visit the mines myself?
You’re allowed to peek inside the mine entrances, but guided tours of the Victory Mine are at 4 pm. Entering mines without guidance isn’t recommended for safety reasons.

How long does the initial guided tour last?
The guided tour of the abandoned buildings and attractions lasts about two hours, after which you’re free to explore.

Is there an additional cost for activities like swimming or hiking?
No, these are included in the $100 fee. The price covers all exploration and activities once you’re onsite.

Can I camp overnight?
Yes, with the entrance fee, you’re welcome to camp and stay overnight, making it a great option for a longer adventure.

Is there transportation provided to the site?
Visitors usually arrive by vehicle or ATV, with some reviews mentioning scenic dirt roads leading into the area. No specific transport is included in the tour price.

What’s the best time to visit?
The tour runs year-round, but considering Arizona’s hot summers, spring and fall are ideal for cooler weather and better trail conditions.

This tour is a wonderful blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty, crafted for travelers eager to discover a forgotten piece of Arizona. Perfect for those who love to explore, photograph, and hike in wild, untouched landscapes.