The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today issued an advisory that encourages outdoor recreationists to postpone high elevation activities due to unstable spring conditions. Recreationists are advised to prepare for thinner snowpack on trails, deteriorating and variable snow depth alongside and off-trail, poor quality ice, slippery trails, and high-water crossings. As snow and ice continue to melt at high elevations, steep trails can pose a serious danger to hikers.
“Outdoor adventurers are reminded that unstable weather conditions can present increased safety risks both for the public and emergency responders who may have to be deployed to help,” said DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “DEC urges hikers to find alternate hiking locations in the region and encourages anyone heading out to plan ahead and follow best practices for a safe and enjoyable experience for all.”
Despite warm weather, some high elevation trails still have melting ice and snow. These steep trails feature thin soils that become a mix of ice and mud as winter conditions melt and frost leaves the ground. The remaining compacted ice and snow on trails is rotten, slippery, and will not reliably support weight. These conditions, known as "monorails," are difficult to hike and the adjacent rotten snow is particularly prone to post-holing.
Avoiding high elevation trails during spring also helps reduce erosion on and alongside trails while protecting alpine vegetation. Hikers stepping off trail to avoid ice, mud, and snow easily erode the thin soils, severely damage fragile alpine vegetation, and widen trails. When encountering messy trail conditions on low elevation trails, hikers should walk through the puddles, mud, or snow instead of around them to help reduce trail widening and minimize damage to trailside vegetation. Proper footwear and clothing, such as sturdy boots with gaiters and traction devices, allows hikers to remain on the trail more comfortably despite muddy conditions.
DEC encourages hikers to avoid all trails above 2,500 feet in the Adirondacks, particularly high elevation trails in the High Peaks. DEC urges hikers to postpone these hikes until conditions improve to protect the Adirondack trail system and reduce the likelihood of dangerous rescue efforts of Forest Rangers and volunteers. Until conditions improve, hikers are encouraged to explore lower elevation trails close to home and enjoy other forms of recreation.
Hikers are advised to take caution even on low elevation trails. Hikers will encounter variable conditions such as ice, thick mud, flooded areas, and deep, slushy snow. Backcountry streams are particularly susceptible to high waters and flooding due to consistently melting snow from high elevations mixing with spring rainfall. Hikers should not attempt stream crossings during periods of high, fast-moving water. Stream water is very cold and hikers that fall into streams can become immediately hypothermic.
In addition, backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow these safety guidelines:
- Check weather before entering the woods - if the weather is poor, postpone your trip;
- Be aware of changing weather conditions - if the weather worsens, head out of the woods;
- Dress properly 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;
- Carry a pack with the 10 hiking essentials;
- Carry plenty of food and water. Eat, drink and rest often. Being tired, hungry or dehydrated makes you more susceptible to hypothermia;
- Know the terrain and your physical capabilities - it takes more time and energy to travel through mixed conditions; and
- Never travel alone and always inform someone of your intended route and return time.
Visit the DEC website for a great list of alternative, low elevation hikes. Check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for weekly updates on backcountry conditions and seasonal recreation information for the Adirondacks. Love our NY lands this spring by finding alternate forms of sustainable outdoor recreation, always practicing Leave No TraceTM, and giving back through volunteer work and stewardship.
