Day Pass to Explore the Lost Mining City of Chrysotile

A Day to Explore the Hidden Corners of Arizona’s Lost Mining City of Chrysotile

If you’re craving an adventure that combines history, nature, and a sense of untouched wilderness, this Day Pass to Chrysotile might be just what you’re looking for. For $100 per person, you get a full day of exploring in the Tonto National Forest, including a guided tour of the old Chrysotile mining town and ample opportunities for hiking, swimming, and discovering some of Arizona’s most pristine landscapes. The experience runs about a full day, starting at 9 a.m., with the freedom to craft your own adventure afterward, plus the option to camp overnight for a more immersive experience.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see abandoned buildings like the jailhouse and schoolhouse, still standing stubbornly after decades of neglect — a rare glimpse into Arizona’s mining past. We also appreciate the variety of activities available: from hiking into Moon Canyon, swimming in Mermaid Lagoon, to peeking inside Victory Mine, all in one day. The flexible itinerary means you can tailor your visit based on energy level and interests, which is perfect for adventurous travelers who like a bit of spontaneity.

One consideration is that the tour involves hiking over uneven terrain and getting into water, so some mobility and comfort with outdoor conditions are needed. Also, since the area is remote and mostly wild, you should come prepared with appropriate gear, plenty of water, and a good sense of exploration.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a full-day experience that combines outdoor fun with a touch of Arizona’s industrial legacy. If you’re someone who loves discovering rarely traveled spots, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic abandoned mining town with buildings dating back to before 1945.
• Flexible exploration options including hiking, swimming, and visiting the largest mine.
• Expert-guided tours with knowledgeable guides who share stories about Chrysotile’s history.
• Pristine natural scenery in Tonto National Forest, away from crowded tourist spots.
• Adventurous activities like canyon swimming and boulder-hopping.
• Cost-effective for a full day of outdoor exploration, with campfire and overnight options.

Detailed Review of the Chrysotile Day Pass Experience

Location and Setting

The tour is set in the Tonto National Forest—a sprawling, rugged landscape that provides the perfect backdrop for this adventure. The abandoned mining city of Chrysotile is located in a private area within the forest, accessible via a dirt road that descends through canyons and tall pines. The setting alone is breathtaking, with views of Ash Creek Canyon and its unusual trees, which seem to thrive in this rugged environment.

The fact that the site hasn’t been open to the public since 1945 makes it a rare opportunity. You’re stepping into a place that feels a bit like Arizona’s best-kept secret, with wildflowers, native cacti, and desert plants adding color to the landscape. As the guide (possibly Andy, based on reviews) explains, you’ll get a map highlighting all the best spots for exploration, making your self-guided time both enjoyable and efficient.

The Guided Tour: First Impressions

The tour begins at 9 a.m., when the gates open, and the initial guided visit lasts about two hours. During this time, you’ll step into the old buildings—the jailhouse, schoolhouse, machine shop, and miners’ barracks—each echoing with silent stories of the town’s bustling past. Guests have noted that guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, with one reviewer describing their guide as someone who took them through each site with care and storytelling, making history come alive.

This part of the experience is a great introduction, especially if you’re new to Arizona’s mining history. The buildings are weathered but remarkably intact, offering authentic photo opportunities. You’re even allowed to peek into the Victory Mine shafts—though not go inside unless on the guided tour—adding an element of adventure and curiosity.

Self-Guided Exploration: Hiking, Swimming, and Discoveries

After the initial tour, you’re free to explore at your own pace. Here’s where the experience shines. The second stop invites you to venture into the natural beauty of the forest—hiking to waterfalls and swimming holes or exploring Mine entrances.

Swimming in Mermaid Lagoon was a highlight for many travelers—deep, cool water perfect for a refreshing break. You hike down to the creek bottom along a trail historically used by miners, passing through boulders and creeks, which provides a bit of a workout but rewards you with stunning scenery and solitude. As one reviewer mentioned, “You might find crayfish, play in the creek, and enjoy the cool water,” which captures the playful, unspoiled nature of this spot.

Moon Canyon offers a slightly more challenging hike. The trail winds over rocks and logs, crossing the creek and passing a dam, leading to a striking geological feature—a conglomerate of rocks and sand shaped over thousands of years. This spot is perfect for photos, picnicking, or just soaking in the unusual landscape.

Visiting Victory Mine: A Peek into Arizona’s Mining Past

For those interested in historic industrial sites, Victory Mine is a must-see. The largest mine on the property, it features multiple shafts and tailings, giving a real sense of the scale of Chrysotile’s mining operations. While you’re not permitted to go inside unaccompanied, you can peek into the entrances and take plenty of photos. Each day at 4 p.m., there’s a guided tour of the mine, where a guide explains the mining process and shares stories about the workers who once toiled here.

Travelers have appreciated this part of the tour, noting the potential for bat sightings and the opportunity to observe the mining artifactual landscape up close. It’s a fascinating glimpse into industrial Arizona, juxtaposed against the natural beauty surrounding it.

Camping and Overnight Possibilities

For those who want to extend their adventure, the $100 entrance fee grants access for camping overnight. This transforms a day trip into a true outdoor retreat—starlit nights, early mornings with fewer visitors, and a deeper connection with the landscape. Many reviews suggest that camping here is a peaceful experience, with the chance to wake up in one of Arizona’s most untouched spaces.

Practical Notes on the Experience

The duration of the tour is approximately eight hours if you choose to camp, but the core exploration can be split into manageable segments. The layered activities—from guided intro to self-guided hikes—allow travelers to tailor the trip to their energy and interests.

The cost seems reasonable considering the variety of activities and the opportunity to explore a virtually untouched site. The $100 fee includes access and the map, but you’ll need to bring your own gear, especially if you plan to hike or swim. The weather can impact your plans—since the experience is outdoors, it’s best on clear days, and poor weather might cause cancellations or changes.

Authenticity and Unique Value

What sets this experience apart is its authenticity. Unlike crowded tourist spots, you’re exploring a rarely visited, privately owned site, with a chance to see Arizona’s industrial past in action. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the wild, natural setting, makes for a genuinely memorable adventure.

From the review quotes, we see that visitors find guides like Andy especially helpful, and the stunning views along the trail, canyon, and creek areas are frequently praised. The opportunity to swim in waterfalls and explore geological features adds a fun, active element that appeals to outdoor lovers.

The Sum Up

This Day Pass to Chrysotile offers a compelling mix of history, outdoor activity, and natural beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences—whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker. The flexible itinerary allows you to create your perfect day, with guided insights and opportunities for spontaneous discovery.

While it requires some physical activity and a bit of planning (bring water, proper shoes, and sunscreen), the rewards are well worth it. The chance to see abandoned buildings, swim in waterfall-fed pools, and peek into historic mines makes this a memorable trip that feels both adventurous and meaningful. For those who love exploring Arizona’s wild corners with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

How long is the overall experience?
The full exploration can take about eight hours if you include camping overnight, but the core activities and guided tour are approximately two hours each, with plenty of free time afterward.

What is included in the $100 fee?
The fee covers access to the site, the guided tour, and a detailed map of the area for self-guided exploration. You need to bring your own gear for hiking and swimming.

Can I visit the mine shafts?
You can peek inside the mine entrances but are asked not to go inside unless on the guided tour. The 4 p.m. guided tour of Victory Mine is the best way to explore the interior safely.

Are there options for camping?
Yes, for the same $100 entrance fee, you can camp overnight, making this a multi-day outdoor adventure. It’s a great way to experience the area with fewer visitors and quiet nights under the stars.

What should I bring?
Bring sturdy shoes for walking over uneven terrain, water, sunscreen, and swimwear if you plan to enjoy the waterfalls or swimming holes. A camera and binoculars could also enhance your experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves hiking and water activities, children should be comfortable with outdoor activities and supervised accordingly.

What’s the weather like?
The tour is outdoors and weather-dependent. Clear, dry days are best for hiking and swimming, so check the forecast before heading out.

In essence, this tour delivers a chance to step into Arizona’s hidden history amidst breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or simply a break from crowded tourist spots, Chrysotile’s lost mining city offers an authentic slice of the American frontier.