If a swimming hole along Tonto creek appeals to you, then you'll like this hike.
The Tonto creek drainage is a year round creek carrying a great deal of water run-off from the Mogollon rim area. We were hoping that the hike from the bottom of the Tonto creek to the narrows would be a good introduction to this area. Unfortunately, the day we picked was overcast, the water muddy, and the rain drove us back to our car rather quickly.
From the parking area, go through the gate limiting transit to the public. Beyond this gate lies private property so be respectful to the owners so we can continue to have access to this trailhead. The road is easy to follow and there are a number of permanent signs to keep you headed towards the "Swimming Hole" and away from private property.
After about 0.5 miles of hiking, you will leave the road, skirting the left edge of a private farm, as you take a rocky, overgrown trail towards Tonto creek. This trail partially follows Houston Creek as it joins the Tonto creek. The trail here is rocky and can be tricky to follow. There are some ribbons tied into tree branches to help you navigate. After an additional 0.5 miles, you will reach the Tonto creek. From here, you should be able to boulder hop, wade and swim upstream to see the narrows, but we were turned back here due to increasingly bad weather.
This hike would probably best be enjoyed with a few days of clear weather (no rain) to let the water clear up, otherwise the brown water is not very picturesque.
We'll be back later.