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.

Learn About Early Spring Hiking & What to Expect on the Trails

Spring hiking in the Adirondacks can offer breathtaking views, fewer crowds, and the chance to witness the landscape come back to life. But it's also one of the most unpredictable and challenging seasons on the trails. 

Snow and ice often linger at higher elevations well into May, while lower elevations can be muddy and slick. It's important to wear waterproof boots so that you can walk through the mud and not around it, sticking to the trails, and protecting trailside vegetation.

Before you head out, research your destination. A snow-covered High Peak is a very different experience from a muddy, scenic, woodland stroll. If you're heading to higher elevations, have microspikes or crampons for icy patches and snowshoes if there is more than 8 inches of snow.

Dress in layers starting with a moisture-wicking base, followed by an insulated mid-layer and a waterpoof shell. Don't forget gloves or mittens, a warm hat, and a face protection.

Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks - your body burns more calories hiking in the cold, and hydration is equally as important in chilly weather as it is in summer heat.

See the National Weather Service for the Northern Adirondacks >>

View the National Weather Service for the Southern Adirondacks >>

Recent Trail Closures, Conditions & Notices to Know About

Here's the latest from the DEC:

• The Lake Flower Boat Launch Site in Saranac Lake will be closed for maintenance on May 12 and 13.
• All public motor vehicle road mud gates have been opened in Watson's East Triangle Wild Forest.
• Seasonal gates on the Chain of Lakes Road South in the Essex Chain Lakes Complex are open. Users should use extra caution and be aware of changing road conditions throughout the season.
• Old Military Road and Jessup River Road in the Jessup River Wild Forest remain closed for mud season. Perkins Clearing Road is open to motor vehicles.
• All mud season gates have been opened in the Independence River Wild Forest except for McCarthy Road.
• As of May 1, public access to the designated Public Use Area in the Five Mile Conservation Easement in the Raquette Boreal Complex is open for the season. Public access is only allowed within the Public Use Area.
• Seasonal use roads in Saranac Lake Wild Forest and Saint Regis Canoe Area - Connery Pond Road, Saint Germain Pond Road, and Little Clear/Little Green Road - are reopened.
• The Bear Pond Road Gate in Watson's East Triangle Forest has been opened. The Croghan Tract and Oswegatchie Conservation Easements remain closed for mud season.
• The Basket Factory Road gate in the Independent River Wild Forest has been opened.
• West River Road in the Silver Lake Wilderness, which provides access to the Whitehouse Trailhead of the Northville Placid Trail, is open for the season.

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

Water Levels & Water Crossings

Water levels are high for this time of year. Expect levels to rise with new rainfall. Check out the USGS current water data for New York for stream flow of selected waters. PDFs are required through May.

View current water data >>

Dress for Function, Not Fashion

Photo credit: Alan Nudi

To plan a safe hike in 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.

Trailhead Parking

Trailhead parking lots will fill up quickly on lovely days, and many hikers will arrive early in the morning. Be mindful of this, and always have backup trails in mind!

From May 1 through October 31, reservations are required to access the parking lot, trailheads, and trails on the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR). AMR is a privately owned 7,000-acre property in the Adirondack High Peaks region, and a popular place for summer hiking.

Note, this AMR parking situation had been a pilot program, but it is now permanent. 

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.

As of May 8, sunrise is at 5:34am and sunset at 8:09pm.

Bears & Bear Canisters

Bear canisters are required for overnight users in the Eastern High Peaks between April 1 and November 30. They are encouraged throughout the Adirondack backcountry.

All food, food garbage, toiletries, and other items with a scent should be stores in the bear canister. The canister should be stored a minimum of 100 feet from tents, lean-tos, and cooking sites, and kept closed when not in use.\

Ticks are also out >>

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.