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Trail Information for the Northeastern Adirondacks

Updated October 19, 2009

General Notices

WARNING: Wilderness conditions can change suddenly. All users should plan accordingly, including bringing flashlight, first aid equipment, extra food and clothing. Weather conditions may alter your plans; you should always be prepared to spend an unplanned night in the woods before entering the back country. Back country hiking trails can be rugged and rough - they are not maintained as park walkways - wear proper footwear!

Report back country emergencies, such as lost or injured hikers, and wildland fires to the DEC Forest Rangers at 518-891-0235.

Road & Traffic Information: Use the link in the right column to visit NYS Department of Transportation 511 New York for information on transportation services, traffic, and road conditions throughout New York State.

Trails Supporter Patch: The new Trails Supporter Patch is now available for $5 at all outlets where sporting licenses are sold, on-line and via telephone at 1-866-933-2257. Patch proceeds will help maintain and enhance non-motorized trails throughout New York State. Use the link in the right column for more information.

Seasonal Notices

Fire Danger: LOW

Snow and Ice:Snow and ice may be found above 3000 feet. Hikers are advised to carry instep crampons or stabilicers and use them as appropriate.

Colder Weather: Colder temperatures have arrived in the mountains. Night-time and morning temperatures in the 20s or colder may be experienced, especially in higher elevations. Be prepared before entering the woods. Pack extra non-cotton clothes, including a hat, in addition to your usual equipment. Take off and put on layers of clothing to regulate body heat. Remember the sun sets earlier this time of year. So plan trips accordingly and carry a flashlight with fresh batteries.

Hunting Season: Autumn hunting seasons for small game, waterfowl and big game have begun or will begin shortly. 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 the Forest Preserve. Hunting accidents involving non-hunters are extremely rare. Hikers may want to wear bright colors as an extra precaution.

Be Prepared Before Going Out: Before your trip contact the local Forest Ranger for trail conditions and other important information. (Use the link in the right column or call 518-897-1300)

  • Check current weather conditions and short-term forecast immediately before entering the backcountry.
  • Dress properly with:
    • Appropriate outer wear and foot wear
    • Layers of non-cotton clothes
    • Pack extra clothes and socks
  • Pack an ensolite pad to rest on and insulate your body from cold surfaces.
  • Pack a bivy sack or space blankets for extra warmth.
  • Always carry a flashlight and extra batteries.

Specific Notices

Chazy Highlands Wild Forest

  • The newly acquired Forest Preserve lands on the Standish and Chazy Lake Roads in the Lyon Mountain area, and on the Smith and Carter Roads in the Ellenburg Mountain area, are open for public use. State boundary lines are not yet marked, contact the DEC Region 5 Natural Resources office (518-891-1291)to obtain a property map. Be aware of your location at all times, do not trespass.

Jay Mountain Wilderness

  • There are no designated trails or facilities in this unit and nothing to report at this time.

Lake Champlain Islands

  • All trails and facilities are open and in satisfactory condition.

Split Rock Wild Forest

  • All trails and facilities are open and in satisfactory condition.

Taylor Pond Wild Forest

  • The Poke-O-Moonshine Fire Tower is open Fridays through Tuesday.