Day Pass to Explore the Lost Mining City of Chrysotile

The Day Pass to Explore the Lost Mining City of Chrysotile offers a unique glimpse into Arizona’s hidden history for just $100 per person. This tour spans approximately a full day, providing access to abandoned mining facilities, beautiful desert scenery, and several outdoor activities within the Tonto National Forest. While it’s primarily geared toward those interested in history, adventure, and outdoor exploration, it also offers the flexibility to wander freely and craft a personalized experience. The tour stands out because it combines guided tours of historic buildings with self-led exploration of waterfalls, swimming holes, and scenic canyon spots.

A key strength of this experience is the emphasis on pristine, rarely visited locations, making it an ideal choice for those seeking solitude and authentic adventure. The $100 entrance fee covers the entire day’s access, and options for camping overnight add further value for explorers wanting to extend their stay. It’s suitable for most travelers, provided they’re comfortable with some walking and light hiking, but it’s especially appealing to those eager to see Arizona’s wild, untouched landscapes and learn about Chrysotile’s mining history.

Key Points

• Full-day outdoor experience with access to abandoned mining sites, scenic hikes, and natural swimming spots
• Includes guided tour of Chrysotile’s historic buildings, such as the jailhouse and schoolhouse
• Self-guided exploration options include waterfalls, Ash Creek, Mermaid Lagoon, and Moon Canyon
• Optional overnight camping available with the $100 entrance fee
• Good for most travelers, with opportunities to see wild animals and enjoy desert scenery
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Exploring Chrysotile in Tonto National Forest: An Abandoned Mining Town

The tour begins with early access to Chrysotile, a privately owned, abandoned mining city that hasn’t been open to the public since 1945. The gates open at 9:00 AM, and shortly after, a short tour guides visitors through notable buildings like the jailhouse, schoolhouse, machine shop, and miner barracks. This welcome introduction is led by knowledgeable staff who explain the history and significance of each site, offering context for the ruins and the mining operations that once thrived here.

Guests receive a detailed map of the area, highlighting the key points of interest and best spots to explore independently later. The guided tour lasts about two hours, providing a solid foundation for the day ahead. Since Chrysotile is privately owned and closed since 1945, visiting it is a rare opportunity to see Arizona’s mining heritage firsthand without large crowds.

Self-Guided Exploration: Waterfalls, Ash Creek, and Mermaid Lagoon

After the initial tour, visitors are free to explore the area at their own pace. This flexibility allows for visits to swimming holes, waterfalls, and mine entrances. A popular option is hiking down to the creek bottom at Ash Creek, where a swimming hole with a waterfall invites cooling off during warmer months. The trail follows the same route that miners used to carry ore out of the canyon, adding a historic touch to the outdoor adventure.

Mermaid Lagoon is another highlight — a deep, cool swimming area perfect for relaxing, playing in the water, or catching crayfish. Traversing boulders and fallen logs along Ash Creek offers a fun, physically engaging experience, with plenty of scenic views along the way. It’s an ideal spot for families or anyone wanting to enjoy Arizona’s natural beauty without strenuous effort.

Discovering Moon Canyon: Unique Geology and Playful Rapids

Another accessible adventure is the Moon Canyon hike, starting after a short drive to a grassy field. This trail winds over rocks, boulders, and logs, crossing the creek multiple times. Visitors pass a small dam and navigate around large boulders to reach a geographically distinctive location formed by compressed rock and sand over thousands of years.

Moon Canyon provides opportunities for photography, creek play, and picnicking. The landscape’s diverse terrain and the chance to wade in the creek make it a favorite stop for those seeking visual interest and outdoor fun. Its manageable length and moderate difficulty make it suitable for most outdoor enthusiasts.

The Victory Mine: Arizona’s Largest Mining Entrance

For those interested in mining history and geology, the Victory Mine offers a captivating experience. Recognized as the largest mine on the property, it features multiple entrances and shafts that visitors can peek into — but not enter unless on a guided tour.

The guided tour of Victory Mine at 4:00 PM is a highlight, taking visitors through mine shafts and tailings piles while sharing stories about the mining operations. During the tour, it’s common to see bats in the mine and observe the large piles of ore processing material. The visit provides both a visual and educational perspective on Chrysotile’s mining history.

Camping and Overnight Options in Chrysotile

For travelers who want to extend their adventure, the $100 entrance fee grants access to camp overnight within the national forest. Guests can bring their gear and enjoy the secluded atmosphere of the area, making it possible to explore more during the evening and next morning. Camping here offers a chance to fully appreciate the desert night skies and the peacefulness of the wilderness.

Staying overnight is ideal for those eager to experience Chrysotile’s remote charm without feeling rushed, and it allows for a deeper immersion into this pristine and rarely traveled part of Arizona.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour runs daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM through mid-June 2026, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The mobile ticket process simplifies check-in, and service animals are allowed. The tour’s physical requirements are moderate — walking, hiking over uneven terrain, and wading in creek water are involved but not overly strenuous.

The meeting point is within the Tonto National Forest, and visitors should come prepared for outdoor conditions. The $100 fee covers access to all stops and activities, with the option to camp for the night.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour appeals most to history buffs, outdoor adventurers, and nature lovers. Its focus on abandoned mining sites, natural swimming spots, and scenic vistas makes it a compelling mix of educational and recreational experiences. The flexibility to explore independently after the initial guided tour allows visitors to prioritize what interests them most.

Because the location is rarely traveled and privately owned, it offers a gateway to Arizona’s less-known wilderness. The inclusion of camping options enhances the experience for those wanting an overnight escape. However, travelers should be comfortable with some light hiking and wading for full enjoyment.

Chrysotile: A Hidden Arizona Treasure

The Day Pass to Explore the Lost Mining City of Chrysotile provides a well-rounded outdoor adventure in one of Arizona’s most pristine, untouched landscapes. It combines history, natural beauty, and outdoor fun into a single, accessible package. The guided tour of historic buildings paired with self-led exploration makes it a flexible option for different interests and activity levels.

The $100 price point delivers access to multiple attractions in one day, with the added possibility of camping overnight. This tour is especially suited for those who want to escape crowds and experience Arizona’s wild side in a meaningful, hands-on way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children should be comfortable with walking, hiking, and wading in creek water.

What should I bring for the exploration?
Footwear suitable for uneven terrain, water, snacks, and sun protection are recommended. Camping gear is needed if planning to stay overnight.

Can I see the mining shafts without a guided tour?
Yes, you can peek inside the shafts, but entering or exploring deep into the mines requires joining the guided tour at 4:00 PM.

Is there a limit to how long I can stay at each site?
No, after the initial tour, you are free to explore the area as long as you like until the park closes at 7:00 PM.

Are there any restrictions for overnight camping?
The tour allows camping within the national forest for those who pay the entrance fee, but specific camping regulations should be observed.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Less than 24 hours, and the booking is non-refundable.