Labor Day with reasonable crowds

[big_load]

It looks like I'll be out for Labor Day weekend, and I'm looking for a higher-elevation backpack. Will the crowds be unbearable on Weatherford to Humphreys? How about the KP Rim?

[JoelHazelton]

I couldn't imagine crowds being unbearable on the KP Rim, ever.

[azbackpackr]

I agree, just stay away from the Steeple Trail (if it is open) as per what Tewa reported.

I would do Fish Creek to Black River myself, instead of KP. But I am going to Telluride.

[skatchkins]

Oddly enough Mount Graham was great the past two Labor Day weekends for me. Even the Ash Creek Falls trail saw only 2 other people. Saw no one else on the other trails besides Big Creek Falls. And the undeveloped camps spots were empty above Moonshine and even there, the only other camp was right on the road entrance.

[big_load]

I couldn't imagine crowds being unbearable on the KP Rim, ever.

I suppose it's protected by distance, but that's also why I'm leaning toward Weatherford. Even so, you'd think the White Mountains would be more popular in the summer. I guess the city folks find the Rim country a more convenient substitute.

I would do Fish Creek to Black River myself.

I'm thinking a little about that, too. It feels like unfinished business.

[joebartels]

While you might pass 20 groups on the Weatherford it would seem you'd practically have it all to yourself once the sun goes down. If not I'd be interested to know.

[big_load]

Is the Inner Basin approach preferable to Weatherford in any way?

[hikeaz]

Is the Inner Basin approach preferable to Weatherford in any way?

Inner Basin is closed due to the fire. The Weatherford IS open.

It's far, but western New Mexico has gobs of trails where I've never seen another soul, even on Labor day W/E. The Mogollon Crest Trail is pretty cool.

[big_load]

Oops, I got mixed up on which areas remain closed. I was supposed to hike in NM in July, but my schedule got wrecked. If I had another day or two, I'd probably go for it.