87 NE out of Mesa, Az

[socal]

Hello wondering if this route is doable middle of March? Looks like it goes through Tonto National forest. Roads clear or snowy and wonder if there is fuel? I would take it up to I-40 East. Thanks.

David
LTVA Hotsprings

[socal]

Well all good advice. Think I'll stay on 10 headed East. Thanks to all for the knowledge.

[Desert_Captain]

Last Friday's snowstorm dropped more than 2' in Payson at 5,000' and I-17 was closed from Camp Verde north 40 miles to Flagstaff which got 4'+. While the OP's route may be doable in March he will need to watch the weather very carefully.

Traveling anywhere near Flagstaff and or the White Mountains can become a serious challenge. A couple of years ago we were near Sedona on May 8th and Flagstaff got 6". I-40 is often closed between Albuquerque and Flagstaff. Good luck.

:C

[azdryheat]

Unless you're sightseeing I'd take a different route. I'd take the 17 to Flag and then the 40 east. But if you like driving through snow in the White Mountains have a nice trip.

[dapperdan]

We've been on 87 going TO Mesa in March, last year and three or four years ago. Both trips into Mesa from Holbrook was great, we had no issues weather-wise. Maybe we got lucky, not sure. :B
There are plenty of choices in Payson to get fuel/gas. The first time through Payson we stopped at the Walmart for staples, we wanted to groceries BEFORE heading into Lost Dutchman.

Dan