Hike-in Required
No
Open Year-round
Yes
ADA accessible
No
Guided tours
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Snow Lake is a small reservoir located in the Gila National Forest, approximately a 40 mile drive from the town of Reserve. The lake boarders the Gila Wilderness, where you can find an abundance of additional recreational opportunities including the Middle Fork Trail #157 that leads through the stunning canyons of the Middle Fork Gila River.

The reservoir itself is held back by an earthen dam on the southern side. 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.

The water in the lake is a bit murky and not ideal for swimming. Fishing however is a popular activity here. Snow Lake is stocked with trout three times a year: early spring, early summer, and late fall.

There is a small boat launch at Snow Lake for non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors. Camping is also available at Dipping Vat Campground.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Pros

Small lake with fishing, camping and nearby hiking opportunities.

Cons

Water is murky. Water levels have been low recently.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Features

Vault toilet
Boat ramp(s)
Wildlife
Fishing
Family friendly
Potable water
Near lake or river
Big vistas
Picnic tables

Location

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