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.

Photo credit: Sydney Lemay

Check Out Fall Hiking Conditions & Tips

To plan a safe hike in the fall, one more consider the variable weather conditions, and the fact that the foliage season is an incredibly popular time to visit.

Here are some basic tips to keep in mind:

• Dress in layers - temperatures will be lower at higher elevations and summits.
• Prepare for busy trails - arrive at trailheads early and have a couple of backup plans if the lot is full.
• Bring a headlamp or flashlight - days get shorter in the fall, and it's easy to get caught in the dark.

See the National Weather Service for the Northern Adirondacks >>

View the National Weather Service for the Southern Adirondacks >>

Trail Closures & Notices to Know About

Here's the latest from the DEC:

• Public access is now closed to the Grass River Conservation Easement. This excludes the recreation corridor on the property that allows year-round public motorized access to the Forest Preserve Stone Dam Parcel via the Dean Road and Pleasant Lake Access Road.
• All public access to the Five Mile Conservation Easement is closed for the season.
• Construction of parking areas, campsites, and trail maintenance on the Oswegatchie Conservation Easement is ongoing. Expect to see heavy equipment and trail crews working through October 11. This is in the Watson's East Triangle Wild Forest.
• There are two washouts on the Stony Pond Trail in the William C. Whitney Wilderness and Round Lake Wilderness. The washouts are located about 0.75 miles and 1 mile from the trailhead.
• Water will be turned off at the Otter Creek Assembly Area in the Independence River Wild Forest after Columbus Day Weekend.
• The gate on the access road leading to the Bog River Dam, also known as Lows Lower Dam, has reopened following a period of closure for dam maintenance. The Lower Dam Road and parking area near the end of the road are now open to the public.
• Access to the Town of Schroon Lake's boat launch will be closed on October 19 due to a town event.
• The public water source at Johns Brook Lodge is being turned off this week due to cold temperatures. The resource will be unavailable for the rest of the season.
• The bridge across Constable Creek on the Constable Pond-West Mountain Trail has been replaced.

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

Dress for Function, Not Fashion

Photo credit: Alan Nudi

Wearing the proper clothing is often overlooked when hiking, but it can make all the difference in rough conditions. The DEC has several tips when dressing for fall hiking.

Hikers should avoid wearing cotton as cotton is known to trap moisture. Instead, wear moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics that will keep your skin dry and help to regulate your temperature. Pair this with light-colored clothing that will absorb less heat and make ticks more visible for the ultimate hiking outfit.

In addition, wear layers of clothing. Temperatures can change drastically, especially as you increase elevation and include factors such as rain. You can always remove or add layers.

Finish your outfit off with waterproof shoes or boots that are sturdy but comfortable to help you navigate muddy or wet trails.

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

Summer weather brings these trailheads to life, resulting in crowded parking lots and limited 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!

Note: 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.

For a list of frequently asked questions and reservations, visit AMR's website: https://www.hikeamr.org/

Pack the Proper Gear

Half of the battle when hiking is having everything you need. The DEC recommends 10 essential items:

1. Navigation
2. Insulation/Rain Gear
   
3. Light
   
4. First Aid Supplies
   
5. Emergency Kit
   
6. Fire
   
7. Nutrition
8. Water
   
9. Sun and Insect Protection
   
10. Emergency Shelter
    

In the summer heat, you can never have enough water and nutrition. Hikers should also bring multiple forms of navigation, including a map, compass, GPS, or other device, to use on top of the trail markers.

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

Although days are longer during the summer, 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.

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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Erin Nudi Erin is an avid reader, yogi, jogger, and hiker. She's passionate about everything Lake George, Adirondacks, and the Capital Region, and loves supporting the hardworking business in this area. When she's not attending local events, you can find her at a park with her two young kids and husband.