Preservation and Visitor ServicesVisitation increased, leading to the first park ranger house in 1950. That year, 17,700 visitors prompted the expansion of the old parking lot. Funding came for stabilizing the Lower Dwelling. Led by archaeologist Lloyd Pierson, with evidence of his work still visible. This resulted in Interpretive signs being installed. These got placed along trails, attracting thousands of visitors.
NPS Photo Mission 66- National Park Service 50th AnniversaryIn 1956, the park barley keept pace with growing visitation. The National Park Service developed a 10-year plan. It consisted of upgrading facilities in lots of National Park Service sites. In 1964, a new Visitor Center, Museum, and administrative functions were constructed. The construction of the Visitor Center was completed in 1965. National Historic Preservation ActIn 1966, President Lyndon B Johnson signed the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). The act recognizes our importance Historically and Archaeologically. Then, our park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
NPS Photo Visitor Services and Resource ManagementIn 1970, visitation at the park exceeded 53,000 people. awaited visitors, which included displays on the archeological findings at our new facilities. In 1974, the entrance road and Lower Cliff Dwelling trail were paved.
Tonto National Monument CentennialOn December 19, 2007, Tonto National Monument celebrated its 100th Anniversary. Throughout its history, influenced by movements in reclamation, conservation, and preservation. To commemorate this history. A book, At the Confluence of Change: A History of Tonto National Monument, was written. Visitation in 2007 was at 56,174.National Park Service CentennialOn August 25, 2016, the National Park Service celebrated its 100th Anniversary. Still to this day, they create more sites. Learn more about the Centennial. |
Last updated: June 20, 2026