Rim Country Museum & Zane Grey Cabin

Rim Country Museum & Zane Grey Cabin: A Journey Into Western Heritage

Nestled in the heart of Payson’s scenic Green Valley Park, this dual-museum destination is the ultimate starting point for anyone looking to grasp the spirit of the Mogollon Rim. Operated by the Northern Gila County Historical Society, the site serves as a “treasure chest” of artifacts and narratives that shaped Arizona’s high country.

From the ancient artifacts of the Tonto Apache to the reconstructed writing desk of America’s most famous Western novelist, this museum complex brings the rough-and-tumble history of the Rim to life.

The Legend of the Zane Grey Cabin

Zane Grey, the “Father of the Western Novel,” fell in love with Rim Country in 1918 and built his original hunting lodge under the Mogollon Rim in 1921. Although the original structure was tragically destroyed in the 1990 Dude Fire, a meticulous replica was dedicated in 2005, built to the exact specifications of the original using local Ponderosa pine.

• Inside the Cabin: Explore the one-room rustic interior featuring Zane Grey’s original saddle, a player piano, and his unique Morris chair where he wrote his manuscripts by hand.
• The “Vow”: Learn about the 1929 hunting license dispute that led Grey to vow he would never return to Arizona, leaving the cabin abandoned for decades.
• Guided Tours: Docent-led tours provide deep insights into Grey’s life, his 23 Arizona-based novels, and his adventurous family history.

Exploring the Rim Country Museum

The main museum building houses two floors of immersive exhibits detailing the cultural and industrial evolution of Northern Gila County.

• Indigenous Legacy: View intricate basketry and tools from the Tonto Apache and Yavapai tribes, along with ancient pottery dating back to 1300 AD.
• Pioneer Life & Range Wars: Visit the “Hashknife Room” to learn about the Aztec Land and Cattle Company, range wars, and the hard lives of early ranchers and settlers.
• Local Industry: Discover the history of the “World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo,” local gold mining operations, and the evolution of logging in the Tonto National Forest.
• Outdoor Exhibits: The grounds feature a restored schoolhouse, original fire trucks, and a 19th-century blacksmith shop.

Green Valley Park & Amenities

After your museum tour, take advantage of the 43-acre “Jewel of Payson” that surrounds you. Green Valley Park offers three lakes stocked with trout and catfish, as well as scenic paved walking paths.

• Gift Shop: Don’t miss the charming shop in the museum lobby, famous for its local cactus jam and Western heritage books.
• Photography: While photography is encouraged in the main museum, please note that photos are not permitted inside the Zane Grey Cabin replica.
• Relaxation: Ample shaded picnic areas and a playground make this an ideal stop for families.

Visitor Essentials

• Address: 700 S Green Valley Pkwy, Payson, AZ 85541.
• Hours: Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Hours may vary seasonally; check ahead for Wednesday/Thursday availability).
• Cost: Approximately $10 for a combined ticket covering both the museum and the guided cabin tour.