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Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin: A Step Back in Time

Discover the captivating history of Arizona's Rim Country and the legacy of Western author Zane Grey in Payson's Green Valley Park.

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Explore the history of the Rim Country and the legacy of Western author Zane Grey at this museum complex in Payson. See artifacts from the region's past and tour a replica of Grey's cabin, which was tragically lost in the Dude Fire of 1990.

A brief summary to Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin

Local tips

  • Check the Rim Country Museum's website for current hours of operation, as they can vary.
  • Allow at least 1.5 - 2 hours to fully explore the museum and Zane Grey Cabin.
  • Consider visiting during the weekend for full access to the museum and its exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin are located within Green Valley Park in Payson. If you are already in the park, follow the paved paths towards the replica of the Herron Hotel. The museum is located adjacent to the Zane Grey Cabin replica.

  • Driving

    From AZ-87 in Payson, turn west onto Main Street. Continue for approximately 1 mile, then turn north onto S Green Valley Parkway. The Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin will be on your left within Green Valley Park. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin

The Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin offer a glimpse into the history of Northern Gila County and the life of Zane Grey, the famous author of Western novels. Located in Payson's Green Valley Park, the museum complex features exhibits about the area's Native American heritage, pioneer days, and resource extraction industries. The Rim Country Museum itself is housed in several historic structures, including a replica of the turn-of-the-20th-century Herron Hotel. Inside, you'll find displays showcasing artifacts from the ancient cultures that inhabited the Mogollon Rim, as well as exhibits on local mining, ranching, and rodeo history. Payson's original forest ranger station and residence, built in 1907, provides a glimpse into the life of a forest ranger. A highlight of the museum is the replica of Zane Grey's cabin. Grey, who is known for his Western novels, such as *Riders of the Purple Sage*, built his original cabin under the Mogollon Rim in 1921 and used it as a retreat and writing space until 1929. The original cabin was destroyed in the Dude Fire of 1990. The replica was built in 2005 and is a faithful copy of the original, constructed from local Ponderosa pine. Inside, you'll find a replica of his writing chair, a small cot, table, bear rug, Grey's saddle, and assorted cowboy boots and hats. The museum complex also features outdoor exhibits, including the original Tonto Forest Ranger Station, an original 1800s log cabin, and Payson's first fire truck.

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