Day Hikes Near Snow Lake

The Snow Lake area of the Gila National Forest offers a stunning gateway to some of the most remote and scenic day hikes in southwestern New Mexico. Nestled at the headwaters of the Gila River, this high-country region features a mix of ponderosa pine forests, open meadows, and rugged canyons teeming with wildlife. Hikers can follow the river’s path through lush riparian zones, explore trails leading to dramatic overlooks, or venture into the heart of the Gila Wilderness for a taste of true solitude. Whether you're seeking a peaceful lakeside stroll or a more challenging trek into the backcountry, the Snow Lake area provides an unforgettable hiking experience.

• It is recommended to have the Gila Wilderness map as some trails may be difficult to follow for a variety of factors from wildfire, monsoons, overgrowth and snowmelt. The Gila Cliff Dwellings WNPA Bookstore and any Forest Service district office will have these maps for sale.

• This pages and all the other day hike pages on the Gila Cliff Dwellings website serve as a brief overview of these trails to find out more information and trail conditions contact the Gila National Forest.

• Reserve Ranger District: (575) 533-6605 (Closed on weekends)

Snow Lake Trail #142

The Snow Lake Trail #142 is a short out-and-back trail or a great way to start a multiday adventure. You will traverse the Snow Lake dam and then hike down the canyon to Gilita Creek where the trail junctions with the long Middle Fork Trail.

Trail Overview:

The one mile Snow Lake Trail #142 runs along the west edge of Snow Lake, crosses the dam at the southern end of the lake and then continues to Middle Fork Trail #157.

• Length: Approximately 1 mile
• Elevation change: Approximately 100ft.
• Route Type: Out-and-Back

Highlights:

• Scenic View: Hike along this manmade lake with scenic views of the Gila Wilderness
• More hiking options: This trail connects to other day hikes or longer backpacking trips!

Recommendations:

• Leave No Trace: Ensure you pack out all trash and respect the natural environment to preserve its beauty for future visitors.
• Safety: Always check current trail conditions before your hike, as weather can affect trail accessibility.
• Water Availability: Be prepared to filter from nearby water sources.

Flying V Trail #706

The Flying V Trail #706 provides expansive views of the the Gila Wilderness while hiking through grassland and pinion/juniper. Travel from the mesa top to the Middle Fork of the Gila River.

Trail Overview:

• Length: 3 miles (6 Total)
• Elevation Change: Approximately 900 ft.
• Route Type: Out-and-Back

Highlights:

• Expansive Views: The Flying V Trail provides expansive views of the Gila Wilderness.
• Descend to the water: Descend to the Middle Fork of the Gila to be in an entirely new ecosystem with flowing water and different flora.

Recommendations:

• Safety: Always check trail and weather conditions before your hike.
• Leave No Trace: Ensure you pack out all trash and respect the natural environment to preserve its beauty for future visitors.
• Navigation: While the trail is generally well-marked, some sections may be less maintained. It's advisable to carry a map or GPS device.

Middle Fork (Gilita Creek) #157

Experience the northern end of the Gila Wilderness.This 6 miles trail connects Willow Creek Trailhead and Snow Lake/Dipping Vat Campground and passes through mix conifer and some sections of burn. Gilita Creek, while close to many roads, feels very remote within the walls and silence of the canyon.

Traveling in the canyon means you'll have a harder time getting lost but it might take you a while to get to where you are going. Many many river crossings mean constantly wet feet.This river floods frequently especially during high snowmelt periods and during monsoon season, making it hard to keep the trail open. Beaver dams stabilize the creek while also making some creek crossings deep.

Trail Overview:

• Length: 6.1 miles
• Elevation Change: Approximately 650ft.
• Route Type: Out-and-Back

Highlights:

• Lush Vegetation: Hike through a mixed-conifer forest.
• Solitude: Although next to Forest roads, being in the canyon provides a remote feel.
• Wildlife: Beavers frequently build dams that stabilize the creek.

Recommendations:

• Safety: Know trail and weather conditions before hiking. Flood potential in snowmelt and monsoon seasons.
• Water Crossings: Be prepared for water crossings as you will be crossing water several times during this hike.
• Leave No Trace: Ensure you pack out all trash and respect the natural environment to preserve its beauty for future visitors.