South Fork - Gold Ridge Loop, AZ

[WilliamnWendi]

Considering a hike here and was wondering if snow was a problem on the trail. I know there was plenty dropped east of Payson but curious if there was any on the Gold Ridge Loop.

[Grasshopper]

Considering a hike here and was wondering if snow was a problem on the trail.

My guess would be "yes" as of now you should expect snow in the upper segments of both trails (6000+ ft elevations at top) and on the hiking segments of FR3348 and FR201. I can't comment on if it would be a problem or not.. that concern kind-of depends on the hiker I would say. I personally would be more concerned about the more difficult segments (overgrowth, more water flowing..you can get your feet wet on this canyon drainage hike, route finding) in middle and some upper sections of the South Fork Trail #46.. this one can turn out to be a pretty time consuming loop. I'm assuming you are planning to start at the Deer Creek TH/Parking off Hwy 87, if beginning off FR201 there will be snow & slush for sure & could be a little ice early morning.

This last triplog posted for Nov'11 pretty much sums up what I was thinking + expect snow this Dec+more water flowing in South Fork Cyn drainage where you will be hiking in.. http://hikearizona.com/x.php?x=68081

[WilliamnWendi]

that concern kind-of depends on the hiker

The "hiker" knows that his wife appreciates your help. She suggested this hike but I had some suspicions that given some of the higher elevations within the hike itself that snow would be a problem (For us). Thanks again Grasshopper.

[JimmyLyding]

Just make sure you base your opinion on this hike's toughness on what you read on HikeArizona.COM rather than the various Falcon Guides. Pack a lunch and don't wear clothes you can't live without afterwards. If the upper portions aren't snow/ice then they're going to be mud.