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Have a safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation experience on the lands and waters of the Adirondacks. Properly plan and prepare for your outdoor adventure. Minimize impacts on the mountains and forests, rivers and brooks, ponds and lakes, and the wildlife of the Adirondacks.
Check the Backcountry Information for the Adirondacks web pages for more detailed information on access, outdoor recreation infrastructure, and conditions for those planning to recreate in the Adirondacks. This bulletin provides only the most recent notices.
Emergency Situations: If you get lost or injured, keep calm and stay put. If you have cell service, call 911 or the DEC Forest Ranger Emergency Dispatch, 518-891-0235.
Check mountain weather conditions before heading out this weekend.
Packing the proper gear for a hike is very important, and you should be prepared to encounter all conditions. See our recommended packing list and safety tips. Watch DEC's HikeSmartNY video for more information.
ADVISORY: The backcountry advisory remains in effect for the Adirondacks as DEC continues to assess storm-related damages that could affect the safety of trails. In addition, DEC is evaluating roads and other state facilities in the region that were damaged by flooding and other storm impacts.
Many town, county, and state roads were impacted by the Oct. 31 storm. In addition, storm damage has made some bridges impassable and washed out roads and seasonal access roads. Many backcountry trails throughout the Adirondacks have infrastructure damage, including washed out bridges and downed trees, creating unsafe hiking conditions. The public is encouraged to contact local agencies and DEC before they visit to verify if roads are passable and trails are safe. Please report any backcountry damage to DEC’s Region 5 office by emailing R5.Info@dec.ny.gov.
Plan Ahead and Prepare
Check weather and trail conditions, regulations, and advisories before you travel. Have an alternative plan ready to ensure you can make the most of your time in the Adirondacks. Properly prepare to better ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor recreation experience. Weather forecasts and conditions can and do change quickly. Check the current National Weather Service Forecast, and be prepared for the forecasted conditions, or change your plans.
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Inform someone of your travel plans: Let family or friends know where you are going, your planned route, when you plan to return, and emergency numbers to call if you do not return at your predicted time.
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Snow is forecast at the end of this week. Hikers should have trail crampons and be prepared for heavier snowfall accumulation on summits which may warrant the use of snowshoes for safety and to prevent post-holing.
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Temperatures will be cold. Dress in warm layers and bring extra layers to keep yourself dry and warm. Wear or pack a wind protectant layer for higher elevations and summits. Wear or pack a winter hat and gloves and an extra pair of wool socks.
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It gets dark by 5:00pm but, in the thick of the forest, on trails it can become very dark much earlier. Pack a headlamp and extra batteries. Plan to start your hike earlier to give yourself plenty of daylight.
Practice Leave No Trace
Follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and proper trail etiquette to maintain minimal impact on the environment and the natural resources of the Adirondacks while also ensuring an enjoyable outdoor experience for all visitors.
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Trails are wet, muddy, and may be flooded – what do I do?
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If you come across a wet and muddy portion of trail, walk directly down the center of the trail through the mud and water. The center of the trail is considered the heaviest used portion of the trail and is built to withstand this kind of wear and tear. Walking around the water and mud means you are walking on much more sensitive soil and even vegetation and wildlife habitats. Because the soil and vegetation is more sensitive, walking on it can be extremely erosive and damaging to the vegetation and habitats.
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If you come across a flooded portion of trail, consider turning around at this point. Walking through the flooded waters will mean that your feet, ankles, and even legs can become soaked and make you very susceptible to hypothermia. Walking around the flooded waters will mean that you are creating a secondary trail through easily eroded and wet soil which can destroy the surrounding sensitive vegetation and habitats. Creating a secondary trail can also create confusion among other hikers once the flooding recedes, and if the trail continues to see use from hikers who aren’t sure which is the main trail, its ecosystem will never fully recover.
General Conditions/Notices
Learn the conditions you will encounter from the Adirondack Backcountry Information web pages.
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Travel: Check NY511 for road closures and conditions.
- Weather:
- Snow is forecast Thursday and Friday this week with accumulations totaling up to several inches. High elevations may see heavier localized snowfall and larger accumulation.
- Temperatures will drop throughout the day on Friday with temperatures in high elevations dropping below freezing.
- Night time low temperatures are forecast to be below freezing this weekend with some nights in the teens.
- Check the National Weather Service or NY Mesonow for updated hazardous weather notices and for current conditions and forecasts for the location where you plan to recreate.
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Water Levels: The Adirondacks received 7-9 inches of rain in the month of October with significant rainfall this past weekend. Water levels are high and the ground is wet and muddy. Trails and roads may still be flooded or washed out. Check notices below.
- Early Winter Conditions in the Adirondacks – Be Prepared:
- The sun sets early – Pack a flashlight or headlamp on All hikes.
- Ice will be present in the morning.
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Ice and snow will be present in the higher elevations.
- Those hiking to the higher summits should pack a winter hat, gloves, and trail crampons (foot traction devices).
- Always carry the following items on any hike:
- Water
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Working headlamp or flashlight and extra batteries
- Map of the area
- Food or snack
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Trail crampons (foot traction devices)
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Watch for Moose and Deer:
- Motorist should be alert for moose and deer on and along roads.
- Moose and deer actively seek mates in autumn.
- Moose-vehicle collisions are troublesome – two have occurred already this fall.
- Moose are much larger and taller than deer.
- Their large body causes greater damage, and, when struck, their height often causes them to impact the windshield of a car or pickup truck, not just the front of the vehicle.
- Moose are especially difficult to see at night because of their dark brown to black coloring and their height - which puts their head and much of their body above vehicle headlights.
- Use the moose sighting form to report all moose sightings.
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Hunting Seasons: The Northern Zone (which includes all the Adirondacks) regular big game, small game and waterfowl hunting seasons are now open.
- Hikers should be aware that they may meet hunters bearing firearms or archery equipment while hiking on trails.
- Please recognize that these are fellow outdoor recreationists with the legal right to participate in these activities on forest preserve and conservation easement lands.
- Hunting accidents involving non-hunters are extremely rare.
- Hikers should wear bright colors if it makes them feel safer.
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Ticks: Follow these steps to protect against ticks and prevent disease:
- Wear light-colored, long sleeve shirts and long pants.
- Tuck shirts into pants, button or rubber band sleeves at the wrist, and tuck the bottom of pant legs into your socks.
- Use an insect repellent, and follow label directions.
- View these additional tips for tick prevention.
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Drones: Drones are motorized equipment, and operating drones on lands classified as wilderness, primitive, or canoe is prohibited.
- Seasonal Access Roads:
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Check notices below for road closures due to flooding. If roads remain open, use caution as some portions of seasonal roads may still be flooded or have experienced minor wash out in places.
- Seasonal access roads typically remain open until the end of the northern zone regular big game hunting season unless snow or other conditions warrant an early closure.
- Seasonal access roads are dirt and gravel which can be rough.
- Four-wheel drive SUVs, pick-up trucks, and other high clearance vehicles are recommended for driving on these roads.
- Roads may be narrow – use caution, drive slowly, and watch for oncoming vehicles.
Hikers & Campers
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General Information:
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Trail Conditions:
- Trails are wet and muddy especially in low areas and along waterways. Portions of trails may still be flooded from the Oct. 31 storm.
- If trails are flooded in areas, please consider turning around instead of making a new trail around the flooding. Creating new trails can lead others off trail and damage sensitive vegetation and wildlife habitats.
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Stream levels will still be high, making low water crossings difficult to navigate. Many bridges were washed out or damaged in the Oct. 31 storm leaving some streams impassable. Use caution and be prepared to turn around.
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Expect to encounter heavy blow down in areas. Be cautious of hanging branches and unstable fallen trees. Blow down may take considerably more time to hike around
- Trailheads and trails will be icy in the morning.
- Ice and snow will be present on trails all day in the higher elevations.
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Wear Proper Footwear:
- Wear waterproof boots with warm, wool socks to keep feet dry.
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Trail crampons (foot traction devices) should be carried on all hikes and used when warranted.
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Mountain Summits:
Bikers
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General Information: Biking
- Trail Conditions:
- Trailheads and trails will be icy in the morning.
- Trails may be wet and muddy, especially in low areas and along water.
- Please don’t ride on muddy trails. They are easily rutted and damaged through use – if you are leaving tracks, turn back.
- Due to recent strong winds, blowdown (downed or hanging trees, limbs, or branches) may be present on trails.
- The Barkeaters Trail Alliance provides information on the status of mountain bike trails in the Tri-lakes region of the Adirondacks.
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E-bikes: Electric-powered bikes are prohibited on all bike trails on the Forest Preserve.
Boaters, Paddlers, and Anglers
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General Information
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Boat Launches:
- The Westport Boat Launch on Lake Champlain is closed through November while DEC contractors remove sediment from the front of the boat launch ramp to improve the ability to launch and retrieve boats when water levels are low.
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Conditions:
- Water levels are HIGH, rivers and streams are flowing swiftly, and water temperatures are cold.
- Check the USGS Current Water Data for New York for stream flow of selected waters.
- Water temperatures continue to cool.
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Personal Flotation Devices: Everyone aboard boats, canoes, and kayaks less than 21 feet in length must wear a PFD (life jacket) between November 1 and May 1.
Storm Notices
Notices below reflect the most up to date trail and road closures and conditions based on damage assessment from the October 31 storm. Check the Adirondack Backcountry Information web pages for ongoing issues and more detailed information.
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Boreas Ponds Tract, Town of North Hudson
- Gulf Brook Road is closed due to culvert damage and washout.
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High Peaks Wilderness
- Opalescent Bridge has been washed out along the East River Trail to Allen/Hanging Spear Falls. River is impassable at this time.
- Calamity trail has several bridges out.
- Trails in the High Peaks Wilderness are still being assessed. Hikers should be prepared for extensive blowdown, trail flooding, and bridge washouts. Hikers should turn around if damage is too extensive and report any damage to r5.info@dec.ny.gov.
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Crotched Pond, Indian Lake
- Damage to roads and infrastructure are currently being evaluated.
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Speculator Tree Farm and Perkins Clearing Conservation Easements
- Damage to roads and infrastructure. Closed to the public until further notice.
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West Canada Lakes Wilderness
- Due to the closure of the Indian River Road at the Otter Brook Bridge, the unit is also inaccessible from the northern trailhead within Moose River Plains Wild Forest’s Brook Trout Lake Parking Area.
- Those seeking to access the unit from Sucker Brook Trail from Indian Lake/Route 30 should be advised that the Sucker Brook Trail is not maintained beyond the Height of Ground (approximately 4.4 miles in).
- The Northville Placid Trail trailhead on Haskell Road in Piseco is open. However, please be advised that an assessment of backcountry facility damage has yet to be conducted. Given the level of damage on the periphery of the unit, it is likely backcountry facilities, notably stream crossings, will be impacted.
- West Canada Lake Wilderness is accessible from the Pillsbury Mountain Parking Area and the Spruce Lake Parking Lot.
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Ferris Lake Wild Forest, Towns of Stratford & Arietta
- Powley Piseco Road has severe washouts on either end and is closed for the foreseeable future.
- Edick Road is closed.
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Silver Lake Wilderness, Town of Wells
- West River Road is closed until further notice due to flooding and washouts.
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Moose River Plains Wild Forest, Town of Inlet
- Otter Brook road is closed at the gate at Otter Brook. Severe washout beyond the gate.
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Shaker Mountain Wild Forest, Town of Mayfield
- Tolmantown Road, which provides access to the Benson Tract, is closed from the
- Mayfield end. Bleecker end is still open to the Big T.
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Black River Wild Forest
- The Loop Road at North Lake is passable with high clearance 4WD vehicles. Most of the damage occurred at the section of the Loop Road that passes through private lands.
- Loop Road continues to be closed past campsite #18 due to a washout at Golden Stair Creek.
- The Wolf Lake Landing Road in McKeever is passable with high clearance 4WD vehicles. Access past the gate just before Woodhull Lake is limited to persons with disabilities who possess a valid Motorized Access Program for People with Disabilities (MAPPWD) permit.
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Fulton Chain Wild Forest, Town of Webb
- The Safford Pond Snowmobile Trail has experienced a large beaver dam failure approximately one-quarter mile north of Safford Pond Road, at the Safford Pond inlet. The trail is impassable.
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Black Creek State Forest, Town of Norway
- Stanley Road, which bisects the State Forest from east to west, has an impassable washout midway through the State Forest by the small wildlife pond. The public is advised not to drive onto the dike that retains the pond.
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Wilcox Lake Wild Forest, Town of Hadley
- Tower Hill Road is closed from the Eddy Road intersection to the Hadley Mountain Trailhead due to extensive washout. Hadley Mountain can be accessed from Hadley Hill Road.
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Siamese Ponds Wilderness
- The Cisco Brook Trailhead is not accessible due to impassable road washouts leading to the trailhead.
- 13th Lake Road has been washed out. The public can still access 13th Lake Trailhead by detouring on Harvey Road and meeting back up with 13th Lake Road beyond the washout. The 13th Lake trailhead and accessible trails have also sustained damage. The public is advised to use caution at this location.
- The seasonal road to Old Farm Parking Lot and Trailhead has washed out at a culvert. Temporary parking is being determined.
- Barton Mines Rd to the Halfway Brook and Raymond Brook Trail parking is passable to 4WD vehicles only.
- Route 8 has washed out in several places. The public is advised to use caution.
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Blue Ridge Wilderness
- The bridge across Rock Pond is out. Cascade Pond and the Cascade Pond Lean-To can now only be accessed via the Wilson Pond and Crossover Trail or via the NPT.
Recent Notices
Notices below reflect recent changes in conditions and recreation infrastructure work completed by DEC and its partners. Check the Adirondack Backcountry Information web pages for ongoing issues and more detailed information.
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Kushaqua Conservation Easement Tract: There are two logging operations on the easement that will be using the North Branch Road through the middle of December. (10/31)
- Drive slowly, watch and listen for logging trucks and logging equipment when driving on the road.
- Move safely off the road to allow them to pass.
- Most activity will be during the week, but some may occur on weekends.
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Hammond Pond Wild Forest: The Belfry Mountain Fire Tower will be closed week November 4 -8 while DEC crews replace the lower stairs and landings.
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High Peaks Wilderness: Trails through the Elk Lake Conservation Easement to the Dix Mountain Range and Panther Gorge will be closed to public use. The trails will open December 9 at the end of the Northern Zone Regular Big Game Season.
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Lake George Wild Forest: The public will be able to drive up Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Parkway and enjoy the views for free on the first two weekends in November and on Veterans Day, November 11. The highway is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. provided there is no snow or ice on the road.
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Wilcox Lake Wild Forest: Spruce Mountain Fire Tower and the trail to it will close on Saturday and remain closed through the Northern Zone Regular Big Game Hunting Season. The trail will reopen on Monday, December 9.
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Boreas Ponds Tract: The inner universally accessible parking lot will not open until 2020. The Boreas Ponds Dam is one mile from the Four Corners parking lot.
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