Hillside Hideaway Guidebook

All walks of life can agree that the views of the Tonto Natural Bridge, bustling wildlife, unique swimming opportunities, and scenic hiking trails available here are nearly impossible to beat. There are a number of marked trails within the park that will lead you to beautiful lookouts where you can snap close-up pictures or simply just bask in the glory of the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. Be sure stop by the Goodfellow Historic Lodge’s museum exhibits to complete the trip! There are no trash cans on the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park trails. Hours are daily 9:00 am - 5:00

The backyard is unique with wonderful rock formations and incredible mountain views with just a short hike up the pathway. We have a handrail installed for your safety as you venture up the rock steps that leads to multiple secluded landing areas. Please watch your step as we are not responsible if guest’s trip and fall on lose rocks.

If possible, shower before use. It is preferable guests be clean before getting in the hot tub. Cleaning off lotions and sunscreens before soaking helps maintain the integrity of the spa. We do not monitor the PH of the hot tub during summer months, however we always have it chlorinated in case the temperature drops and guests wish to use it. During the cooler season, if you turn the water temperature up during your soak, we suggest turning it back down when you are finished. Please cover when finished – having it open under the trees makes for a leafy mess in the skewer.

With the spotty service in the mountains, it can definitely be tricky to find our place on your first trip up. It is vital that guests input the cabin address prior to losing signal if you have an iPhone. If you have an android, make sure you download the map before losing signal. If anything else, screen shot the message as there are places on the way where you will likely not have signal. There are only two ways into town, from the East through Whispering Pines and from the West via AZ-260 by Pine. Some maps will recommend Flowing Springs Rd. Do NOT take this road.

Fishing, picnicking and water activities. NO trash service, Pack it in, Pack it out. Open Daily. Water Wheel Falls Hiking Trail is easily accessible from the cabin about 15-20 minutes east. Once you get to Fire Control Rd, take a right towards Whispering Pines. Once in Whispering Pines, continue straight onto Houston Mesa Rd and continue about 2.6 miles. The trailhead parking lot will be on the left.

We love offering up our cabin to your fluffy family member, too. If your dog is nervous about being left home alone, we have a large crate available for you to use if you don’t choose to take them in town with you. It’s worth noting, that Pine is very dog friendly – we’ve not encountered a place that didn’t allow them in (shops and restaurant patios included).

In case of a spill or using the pull-out sofa bed, blow up mattress, or single cot, we have extra sheets sized twin, queen, and king available in the armoire in the master room. In addition, there are extra lounge blankets in the living room entertainment center cabinets. We recommend guests use the provided blankets to protect the sofa if your furry friends like to jump up and lounge there too.

Please bag all trash and place in blue trash bins out front. DO NOT KEEP TRASH OUTSIDE if it isn't in the city can as it will lure in wildlife. It is also smart to keep your car windows rolled up at night to avoid wildlife trying to get at any snacks left inside.

Due to the gravel roads we are encouraged to warn guests about potential flat tires. We recommend bringing a can of Fix-a-Flat on your journey in case you have an issue. In case of a flat tire, Payson Tire Pros will patch a tire for ~$20. All residents in our neighborhood are incredibly friendly and handy so if you need any assistance whatsoever, you can knock on anyone’s door for help.

In the event of an internet outage where dialing out isn’t possible, there is an emergency phone box on the west side of the firehouse next door.