Arizona · Hiking

Alder

5.5 mi
round trip
1,532 ft
climb
6,517 ft
high point
Out and back
route
May, Sep–Oct
best months

Is Alder open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. It doesn't name Alder, so check the source for the area it covers (2 listed).

As of · Source: USFS · Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

Alder is a moderate out-and-back hike of about 5.5 miles on the Clifton Ranger District of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in eastern Arizona. The trail starts at roughly 5,154 feet and climbs to about 6,517 feet, a total gain of about 1,532 feet. The route is natural-surface, and it is open to both horses and bikes. It is not an accessible trail, so plan for that if you're considering a visit with mobility equipment. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station show May highs around 77°F and October highs around 72°F, while July and August bring highs near 89°F and the most wet days of the year. Other trails sit close by, including Little Dutch Blue at about 2.3 miles and Horse Canyon Trail #36 at about 2.4 miles. For an overnight base, Lower Juan Miller Campground and Upper Juan Miller Campground are both about 10 miles away.

Local outfitters

Not on Roamze yet. Their page has how to reach them.

  • Best time to go · May, Sep–Oct

    Best time to visit Alder

    Best months: May and September–October. Best months have typical highs of 55–85 °F, lows of 30 °F or warmer (32 °F where the station doesn't record snow), at most one snowy day and no more than 12 wet days.

    1. Jan

      52° / 20°

      6 wet

    2. Feb

      55° / 22°

      6 wet

    3. Mar

      61° / 27°

      5 wet

    4. Apr

      68° / 31°

      3 wet

    5. May

      77° / 39°

      3 wet

    6. Jun

      88° / 49°

      4 wet

    7. Jul

      89° / 55°

      11 wet

    8. Aug

      86° / 55°

      12 wet

    9. Sep

      81° / 49°

      7 wet

    10. Oct

      72° / 36°

      4 wet

    11. Nov

      61° / 27°

      4 wet

    12. Dec

      52° / 20°

      6 wet

    Typical high / low (°F) and days with rain or snow, 1991–2020. Measured at Black Rvr Pumps, AZ, 32.4 mi away at 6,065 ft. This station doesn't record snowfall. Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020.