Payson Roundup

Cinch Hook gravel pit, located on State Highway 87 and Highway 260 junction, is a popular site for snow sledding and snowplay during the winter season.

Snow is forecast for the Rim Country this week, however, Cinch Hook will not be open for visitation, and the public is prohibited from entering the Cinch Hook pits.

Many people travel from the Valley to play in the Cinch Hook pit when it snows and attempt to park on the side of Highway 87 to enter the area. Parking along the highway is prohibited and not safe.

Visitors wanting to play in the snow are asked to visit such places like the Wing Mountain Snowplay Area until Cinch Hook can be reopened for winter visitation.

For more information about the Cinch Hook area and to check whether or not it is opening, please call the Mogollon Rim Ranger District at (928) 477-2255.

Additionally, Wing Mountain is located 10 miles northwest of Flagstaff off of Highway 180 on Forest Road 222B, and may be opening soon if enough snow falls. The cost per vehicle is $10.

Wing Mountain Snowplay Area is managed by Recreation Resource Management under a temporary special use permit with services including parking management, snowplowing, restrooms and trash receptacles. For conditions at Wing Mountain call (928) 226-0493 or visit http://www.snowplayaz.com/