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.

Photo credit: Elo Cote

Learn About Winter Hiking & What to Expect on the Trails

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 in the 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:

• As of Monday, March 24 DEC has closed snowmobile trails and mud gates to seasonal access roads on Forest Preserve, State Forest, and Conservation Easement lands due to spring thaw and muddy conditions. Motor vehicle use during the spring mud season damages roads, resulting in road opening delays. DEC will reopen the roads once they are dry enough to safely handle motor vehicle traffic and necessary maintenance is completed. Affected counties include: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Saratoga, Warren, Washington, Herkimer, Jefferson, Oneida, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.
• Weekly Lake Colden Snow Report: As of Wednesday, March 26, snow depths were recorded to be 30 inches at the stake at the Lake Colden Interior Cabin (about 2,750 elevation).
• While public motorized access is closed until the end of mud season, public non-motorized access to Pleasant Lake via the Pleasant Lake Access Road on the Grass River Conservation Easement in the Grass River Wild Forest is open for the season. Similarly, while public motorized access is closed until the end of mud season, public non-motorized access to the Forest Preserve River Corridor via the Windfall Road or Buckhorn Road on the Cranberry Forest Conservation Easement is open for the season.
• The Wanakena Truck Trail in the Five Ponds Wilderness is flooded approximately one mile south of the trailhead due to beaver activity. Users should expect wet conditions and be advised that there is no visible way around this section. Repair work is scheduled for this spring/summer.
• The Moose River Plains entrance gates are closed for mud season. Passenger vehicle access is restricted.
• All gates are closed and locked for mud season in the Perkins Clearing/Speculator Tree Farm Conservation Easement Tracts.
• Gay Pond Road and Jabe Pond Road in the Lake George Wild Forest are closed for mud season.
• Exit 32 on the Northway will be closed for an extended period of time as the DOT replaces a bridge.
• Route 56 to Potsdam remains closed due to a large sinkhole caused by the collapse of a culvert.

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

Dress for Function, Not Fashion

To plan a safe hike in the winter/early spring, one must consider the variable weather conditions.

Here are some basic tips to keep in mind:

• Wear a base layer made of moisture-wicking material to stay dry, add insulating layers like fleece or wool for warmth, and top it off with a waterproof or water-resistant shell. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture.

• Choose thick, warm socks, along with a cozy hat and gloves or mittens to protect extremities.

• Opt for insulated and waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry.

• Bring snowshoes or skis if the snow is over 8 inches deep to navigate the terrain more easily.

• Use sunscreen to protect your skin and wear sunglasses to reduce glare, as UV rays are strong even in winter.

• Carry a reliable timepiece, such as a watch, to track your progress and avoid being caught out after dark.

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.

Pack the Proper Gear

Half of the battle when hiking is having everything you need. The DEC recommends the following in winter:

• Day pack that can hold all your gear
• Water and high energy snacks
• First aid kit
• Trail map and compass or GPS unit
• Extra clothing, including extra hat, socks, and mittens
• Plastic whistle (avoid metal)
• Microspikes or crampons
• Flashlight or headlamp and extra batteries
• Pocket knife
• Trekking poles
• Bivy sack, space blanket, and heavy duty garbage bags for emergency shelter
• Fire starter kit: matches in waterproof container and cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly

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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About the Author: Erin Nudi Erin is an avid reader, yogi, jogger, and hiker living in Queensbury. When she's not perusing books at Northshire, Owl Pen Books, or Beldame Books, you can find her at a local event or park with her family.