Exploring Payson, Arizona: ASU Tourism Student Association’s Fall Day Trip

Author: Jeffrey Hill, TSA Secretary

On Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, Arizona State University’s Tourism Student Association took a well-deserved break from the Valley’s heat for a memorable day trip up to Payson, Arizona. Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by Ponderosa pine forests, Payson offered a perfect blend of rustic charm and valuable lessons in tourism management for our members. 

The day began at the Payson Event Center, where members were introduced to the town’s vibrant character and charm. Barrel racing added an exciting backdrop as Miranda Meyer, executive director of the Rim Country Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the group. Meyer’s orientation on how Payson balances its small-town charm with tourism growth set the stage for a deeper dive into the local tourism dynamics. Students gained insights into the rodeo's significant role in attracting visitors and supporting Payson’s economy, thanks to an engaging talk from Payson Pro Rodeo Board members Stephanie Creasy, Dan Wile and Don Simon. 

The group’s next stop was the Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey’s Cabin, where they traveled back in time to explore the rich tapestry of Payson’s past. The museum provided a fascinating look at the history and heritage of the Tonto-Apache people and other significant milestones that have shaped the area. Learning about this heritage was not only educational but also reinforced the importance of preserving local and cultural narratives within tourism.

After their museum visit, the group headed to the scenic Colcord Mountain Retreat for a picnic and a thought-provoking panel discussion with local short-term rental (STR) hosts. This session allowed the students to hear directly from business owners about the challenges and rewards of running STRs in a popular getaway destination. 

A highlight of this visit was the tour of a unique Civil War-era homestead, which had been transformed into a family compound and STR. This property’s rich history and picturesque location left a lasting impression on the group. 

The day continued with a scenic journey to the top of the Mogollon Rim, where students captured the breathtaking views of the sprawling forest landscape. The final destination was Woods Canyon Lake, where they were greeted by two seasoned experts on the land: 90-year-old “Ranger Bob,” who has dedicated an astounding 62 years to preserving this area, and Black Mesa Ranger Debbie Roznovak. Together, they shared insights on conservation efforts, the region's unique natural features, and the ecological importance of the land. 

ASU’s Tourism Student Association Fall Day Trip to Payson wasn’t just a getaway; it was an opportunity for students to learn firsthand about the balance between tourism and preservation, to engage with passionate community members and to appreciate the lasting impact of thoughtful tourism practices. By connecting with industry leaders, local business owners and dedicated conservationists, they returned inspired and equipped with new perspectives on the role tourism plays in preserving the essence of unique destinations like Payson.