Current Adirondack Trail Conditions: What Hikers Can Expect This Season

When preparing for a hike, it's crucial to research the area you're visiting and know what to expect. Check out the current Adirondack trail conditions and other important information that will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience this season.

Learn About Winter Hiking & What to Expect

Winter hiking in the Adirondacks can be a unique, rewarding, and beautiful experience. It also requires adequate preparation and planning, arguably even more than at any other time of year.

Research where you are hiking beforehand, as a High Peak will be quite different from a snowshoe stroll through the woods. Proper gear like boots, microspikes, or crampons are essential for handling icy conditions. Snowshoes are a must for deeper snow, and are actually required if the snow is taller than 8 inches.

Layer up your clothes with a moisture-wicking base layer, insulated jacket, and waterproof outerwear. Remember essentials like mittens or gloves, hats, and face protection to guard against frostbite. Pack high-calorie snacks and water, as your body will burn more energy int he cold. 

See the National Weather Service for the Northern Adirondacks >>

View the National Weather Service for the Southern Adirondacks >>

Trail Closures & Notices to Know About

Here's the latest from the DEC:

• Weekly Lake Colden Snow Report: As of Wednesday, November 27, snow depths were recorded to be 7.5 inches. Snow depth is inconsistent as you travel the trails. Anyone planning on a High Peak or Avalanche Pass should bring snowshoes. Snow is forecasted for Thanksgiving (the 28th).
• Jessup River Road in the Perkins Clearing/Speculator Tree Farm Conservation Easement Tracts has been repaired following storm damage.

Please report any damage you see to: info.r5@dec.ny.gov

Dress for Function, Not Fashion

To plan a safe hike in the fall, one more consider the variable weather conditions, and the fact that the foliage season is an incredibly popular time to visit.  

Here are some basic tips to keep in mind:

• Dress in layers - temperatures will be lower at higher elevations and summits.
• Prepare for busy trails - arrive at trailheads early and have a couple of backup plans if the lot is full.
• Bring a headlamp or flashlight - days get shorter in the fall, and it's easy to get caught in the dark.

Wearing the proper clothing is often overlooked when hiking, but it can make all the difference in rough conditions. The DEC has several tips when dressing for fall hiking.

Hikers should avoid wearing cotton as cotton is known to trap moisture. Instead, wear moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics that will keep your skin dry and help to regulate your temperature. Pair this with light-colored clothing that will absorb less heat and make ticks more visible for the ultimate hiking outfit.

In addition, wear layers of clothing. Temperatures can change drastically, especially as you increase elevation and include factors such as rain. You can always remove or add layers.

Finish your outfit off with waterproof shoes or boots that are sturdy but comfortable to help you navigate muddy or wet trails.

Browse Our Suggested Hiking Apparel

Do Your Research Beforehand

Preparing thoroughly before reaching the trailhead ensures you're ready for the challenges ahead.

One of the big things to research is the trail itself. Confirm that the trail you are hiking is suitable for you and is within your skill level. Be realistic when judging your hiking ability to avoid a dangerous situation.

Researching the current trail conditions is another wise thing to do. Apps like “AllTrails” can show other hikers' recent experiences on the trail and give insight into its current state.

Part of your preparation should include understanding the rules and regulations specific to the trail you plan to hike. Respecting both the land and fellow hikers is essential for everyone's safety.

Trailhead Parking

Summer weather brings these trailheads to life, resulting in crowded parking lots and limited parking.

Trailhead parking lots will fill up quickly on lovely days, and many hikers will arrive early in the morning. Be mindful of this, and always have backup trails in mind!

Note: From May 1 through October 31, reservations are required to access the parking lot, trailheads, and trails on the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). AMR is a privately owned 7,000-acre property in the Adirondack High Peaks region, and a popular place for summer hiking.

For a list of frequently asked questions and reservations, visit AMR's website: https://www.hikeamr.org/

Pack the Proper Gear

Half of the battle when hiking is having everything you need. The DEC recommends 10 essential items:

1. Navigation
2. Insulation/Rain Gear
   
3. Light
   
4. First Aid Supplies
   
5. Emergency Kit
   
6. Fire
   
7. Nutrition
8. Water
   
9. Sun and Insect Protection
   
10. Emergency Shelter
    

In the summer heat, you can never have enough water and nutrition. Hikers should also bring multiple forms of navigation, including a map, compass, GPS, or other device, to use on top of the trail markers.

Note that trails have limited cell service, so downloading Google Maps or "AllTrails" maps is useful to do before leaving home.

See Our Suggested Hiking Gear

Sunrise/Sunset

Days are shorter in the winter, and getting caught before sunrise or after sunset can lead to colder temperatures and other complications.

It’s essential to make a schedule and stick to it to avoid getting caught in a situation you didn’t plan for. With that in mind, always bring at least one headlamp, maybe two, even if you plan to return by sunset.

Also, remember to look at a site like Weather.com to see when sunrise and sunset will be in your location.

No Overnight Camping at Trailheads

Just a reminder, there is no overnight camping at trailheads or at other roadside locations where a camping disc is not present. This includes car/van/RV camping.

Campers should seek out designated roadside campsites marked with a "camp here" disc or a campground.

When camping, always carry out what you carry in and dispose of trash properly. Use designated bathroom facilities, pack out human and pet waste, or dig a cat hole.

Report Backcountry Emergencies to This Number

Report emergencies like lost or injured hikers and wildland fires to the DEC Ray Brook Dispatch at 518.891.0235.

Follow This DEC Account

Hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts can follow @NYSDECAlerts on Twitter (X) for real-time updates to help you better prepare for your outing. This account provides updates for DEC-managed lands throughout the state, including the Adirondacks.

For weekly trail updates, visit the DEC website >>

Make sure you Leave No Trace on the trails >>

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