As of 1-1-2025, Tonto National Forest has designated several new OHV permit zones that now require a fee to access. The fee applies to all OHVs, including full-size vehicles - like Wranglers.

There are four designated zones - Desert Vista, St. Clair, Bulldog Canyon, and The Rolls. There is a 5th zone, Lower Sycamore, that is being studied. One permit allows access to all of the permit zones.

I've been riding these trails for years for free, but between long-term closures and crazy trail crowding on weekends I've been going elsewhere. I sprung for the annual fee and have done a few of the Desert Vista and St Clair zone trails. I have to say the permits are discouraging use, which is the intent in the first place. Haven't seen any enforcement vehicles yet, but I understand they do patrol.

If you are in the Phoenix, Arizona area and are looking for off-road opportunities, give the permit zones a try. Just look up Tonto National Forest OHV Permits for options on how to buy. Yes, you'll see some side-by-sides but Jeeps seem to be making a comeback!