The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is advising visitors to the Adirondacks and Catskills of unsafe winter conditions in the backcountry due to this week’s fluctuating weather. Warmer temperatures will create hazardous conditions with rapidly melting snow and ice. There is also possible avalanche danger in parts of the Adirondacks.
Snowmelt will cause rivers and streams to rise to potential flood levels. Ice jams are possible in major rivers and may create flooding hazards along roadways and in towns and villages. The thaw-freeze cycle is creating ice berms or pressure ridges on lakes and ponds. Snowmobiles should use extreme caution when crossing waterways.
DEC Forest Rangers advise that current trail conditions will make travel without properly fitting traction devices extremely difficult and potentially dangerous. Visitors who decide to enter backcountry areas should carry all forms of traction devices. Wear snowshoes on snowy portions of the trail, especially in high elevations where feet of snow are still present. Visitors should use crampons or other traction devices on icy portions of the trails, including summits and other exposed areas. An ice axe may be necessary above tree line. Check out DEC's Winter Hiking Safety webpage for further details on traction devices.
In addition, backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow these safety guidelines:
- Be aware of changing weather conditions - if the weather worsens, head out of the woods.
- Stream levels can drastically change from the morning to the afternoon. The stream you cross at the start of your hike may be impassable when you return. Choose trails that provide high water bridges or avoid stream crossings altogether.
- Heavy, wet snow will soak clothes quickly and can cause hypothermia. Dress in layers made of wool, fleece, and other materials that wick moisture (not cotton): a wool or fleece hat, gloves or mittens, wind/rain resistant outer wear, and winter boots. Bring extra layers to stay dry.
- Carry a pack with all 10 hiking essentials. Pack multiple headlamps with extra batteries.
- Carry plenty of food and water. Eat, drink, and rest often. Being tired, hungry, or dehydrated makes people more susceptible to hypothermia.
- Know the terrain and your physical capabilities - it takes more time and energy to travel through snow.
- Never travel alone and always inform someone of your intended route and return time.
Take care of trails during transitioning seasons:
- Stick to low-elevation hiking trails.
- Avoid hiking on any trails during periods of significant rainfall.
- If hiking on muddy or flooded trails - stay in the center of the trail to prevent erosion. The center of the trail can sustain boot prints.
Visit DEC’s Winter Hiking Safety webpage for information, resources, and videos on hiking safely in the winter.
Traveling through snow takes more energy and time than hiking the same distance, especially in freshly fallen snow. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency call 911. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.
DEC's Adirondack Backcountry Information and Catskill Backcountry Information webpages provide current trail conditions and other important information to help ensure a safe and enjoyable backcountry winter experience.
