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DEC Warns of Dangerous Winter Conditions in the Adirondacks and Catskills

Heading to the Adirondacks or Catskills? The DEC warns that fluctuating temperatures are rapidly melting snow and ice, creating hazardous conditions, including a risk of avalanches in some areas. Outdoor enthusiasts should stay alert to changing weather and trail conditions.

Rising temperatures will cause streams and rivers to swell, potentially reaching flood levels. Ice jams on major rivers may also lead to localized flooding, impacting roads and communities.

On frozen lakes and ponds, shifting ice may create dangerous ridges and weak spots, posing risks for snowmobiles and other travelers. Those venturing out should use extreme caution, especially when crossing waterways.

DEC Forest Rangers emphasize the importance of using proper traction devices on icy trails. Snowshoes are recommended in deep snow, while crampons or ice axes may be necessary on steeper, exposed terrain.

Additionally, hikers should be prepared for cold, wet conditions by wearing quick-drying layers and carrying emergency essentials, including extra clothing, food, and headlamps. Navigating through snowy terrain requires more energy, so planning ahead and knowing your physical limits is crucial.

To stay safe, visitors should stick to lower-elevation trails, avoid water crossings when possible, and check weather forecasts before heading out. If conditions worsen, turning back is the best option.

For up-to-date trail conditions and winter hiking safety tips, visit the DEC’s official website. In case of an emergency, call 911 or contact a DEC Forest Ranger for assistance.

See our Adirondack Hiking Guide for more tips >>

Big Upgrade Hits Ski Mountain, Ushering in a New Era

A new three-person chairlift is now operating at McCauley Mountain Ski Area in the southwestern Adirondacks, offering skiers and snowboarders something very special to celebrate this winter! The mountain’s outdated double chairlift was replaced by the Partek triple chairlift this January.

A Much-Needed Upgrade

The old double chairlift was the only one that reached the summit and was in danger of a major breakdown, which would have prevented the skiers from accessing the upper areas.

Instead of waiting for disaster to strike, town officials took action and secured the Hudson Triple from Gore Mountain’s North Creek Ski Bowl.

Fast-Track Installation

This new addition was completed in just six months, whereas lift installations typically take longer. Thanks to the strong collaboration, the old lift was removed in spring of 2024, work began end of July, and by January 2025, the new one was up and running.

In an article by the Adirondack Daily Enterprise, former town board member Kurt Gardner, who has been heavily involved in the chairlift replacement, called the project “the Miracle on McCauley,” referencing the famous Miracle on Ice at Lake Placid.

“You guys have the ‘Miracle on Ice’ up there,” he said. “And now we have the Miracle on McCauley as far as I’m concerned.”

More Improvements on the Way

The chairlift isn’t the only upgrade happening at McCauley Mountain. Several other improvements are in the works, including:

• Expanded terrain access – Enhancements aimed at opening more trails earlier in the season and maintaining better snow conditions throughout winter.
• New snowmaking equipment – Upgrading outdated compressors to allow high-efficiency snow guns to operate at full capacity.
• A magic carpet lift – Replacing one of the bunny hill’s rope tows to create a more beginner-friendly experience.

With family-friendly terrain, a passionate ski community, and new infrastructure, McCauley Mountain is entering an exciting new chapter. Ready to ride the new triple chairlift? Plan your visit today!

Source: Adirondack Daily Enterprise

Long Lake to Receive Proceeds from Sale of Historic Whitney Park

The town of Long Lake is set to receive a major financial boost thanks to the anticipated sale of a historic Adirondack property. Whitney Park, a 36,600-acre private tract of land once owned by Saratoga socialite Marylou Whitney, is on the market, and Long Lake has been named the sole beneficiary of the proceeds.

Town officials say the unexpected gift will provide incredible opportunities for the community for generations to come.

Whitney, a well-known figure in the region, originally owned around 50,000 acres in the Adirondacks. In 1997, she sold 15,000 acres to the state, which is now part of the William C. Whitney Wilderness Area. After her passing in 2019, her husband, John Hendrickson, listed the remaining land for sale, initially asking $180 million. While there was interest, the property has yet to sell and is now listed for over $100 million.

Hendrickson's estate will continue oversee the sale, with Long Lake set to benefit once a buyer is found.

Long Lake officials say they will carefully manage the proceeds to ensure they positively impact the community. While it may take years before the funds arrive, town leaders are already considering how best to use them in a way that honors Hendrickson’s legacy and benefits residents.

Source: North Country Public Radio