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Trail Information for the Eastern Adirondacks

Map depicting forest preserve and conservation easement lands in Eastern Adirondacks

Updated: February 9, 2012

General Notice

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.

Mountain Forecast: Weather is an important factor in preparing for hiking or camping in the Adirondack backcountry. Often there is considerable difference in weather conditions at the trailhead and those experienced in the higher elevations. The National Weather Service in Burlington has a product that provides a weather forecast for elevations above 3000 feet and spot forecasts for the summits of a handful of the highest peaks in Clinton, Essex and Franklin County. Use the link near the bottom of the right column to access the forecast.

Be Prepared (11/23)

  • Check (before entering the backcountry)
    • Local Forest Ranger for current information.
    • Current weather conditions and short-term forecast
  • Wear
    • Appropriate outer wear and foot wear (parkas, boots and gaiters)
    • Layers of non-cotton clothes
  • Carry
    • Map and compass - know how to use them and use them!
    • Flashlight and extra batteries
    • Plenty of food and water
  • Pack
    • Extra clothes and socks
    • Hat and gloves or mittens
    • Ensolite pad to rest on and insulate your body from cold surfaces
    • Bivy sack or space blankets for extra warmth
    • Fire starter supplies - waterproof matches, butane lighter, candles, starter material, etc.
  • Always inform someone of your itinerary and when you expect to return

Motorized Equipment in Wilderness, Primitive and Canoe Areas: DEC has adopted a regulation prohibiting the use of motorized equipment in lands classified as wilderness, primitive or canoe. Public use of small personal electronic or mechanical devices such as cameras, radios or GPS receivers are not affected by this new regulation. See Section 196.8 in the DEC Regulations.

Camping Group Sizes in Wilderness, Primitive and Canoe Areas: DEC regulation requires that groups of ten or more persons camping on state land obtain a permit from a forest ranger. DEC policy prohibits issuing group camping permits to groups wanting to camp on forest preserve lands in the Adirondacks that are classified as wilderness, primitive or canoe area. This policy was developed to protect natural resources, the primeval character of the area and exceptional wilderness experiences for all recreationists, and follows Leave No Trace practices. Except for the eastern High Peaks Wilderness, Pharaoh Lake Wilderness and the William C. Whitney Wilderness, where the group size is 8, camping groups in wilderness, primitive and canoe area lands are limited to 9 people or less.

Camping Permits: Camping for more than three nights or in a group of ten or more in Wild Forest lands requires a permit from a Forest Ranger. The following information must be provided to the forest ranger to obtain a camping permit: Name, Address, City, State, Zip Code, Vehicle License Plate Number, Telephone Number, Date of Birth, Number in Group, Camping Dates, and Location of Campsite.

Campsites: Camping at designated campsites in the backcountry is done on a first come, first served basis. There is no reservation system for these primitive campsites. Campsites in popular areas fill up quickly on weekends so plan accordingly.

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

Camp Santanoni Winter Weekends: Two more Winter Weekend events will be held at historic Camp Santanoni this season. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers will be able to access the Gate Lodge, the Main Lodge and the Artist's Studio, view interpretative displays, and take interpretive tours. The Winter Weekend events are being hosted by DEC, Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH), the town of Newcomb and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry's (ESF) Adirondack Interpretive Center. AARCH staff will staff the Artist's Studio, which will serve as a warming hut with a fire and hot beverages, and provide tours of the Main Lodge. The Adirondack Interpretive Center will provide snowshoes to lend to visitors at the Gate Lodge. Events will be held on January 14-16, President's Day holiday weekend, February 18-20, and the weekend of March 17-18. See the press release for additional information. (1/19)

Winter Conditions: Currently there are 2 to 6 inches of snow on the ground in the lower elevations of the northern portion of this area, with 0 to 2 inches of snow in the southern portion. Snow depths are deeper in the higher elevations of both portions. This weekend temperatures are predicted to be in the teens during the day and below zero at night. Always check weather forecasts and conditions before entering the backcountry. See below for more information on conditions and how to prepare for them. See below for more information on conditions and how to prepare for them. (2/9)

Prepare for Cold Temperatures: Dress in layers of wool, fleece and other non-cotton clothing. Wear a hat and gloves or mittens. Drink plenty of water as dehydration can lead to hypothermia and eat plenty of food to maintain energy levels and warmth. Use the links near the bottom of the right column to view the National Weather Service's "Weather Forecasts". (2/9)

Snow & Ice: The snow cover is hard and thin with ice prevalent on backcountry trails. Cross-country skiing conditions are improving but still not great. Traction devices and crampons should be carried and used when warranted. The use of snowshoes may be warranted in higher elevations where snow depths exceed 8 inches - the use of snowshoes prevents post holing, reduces injuries and eases travel through the snow. Use the links near the bottom of the right column to view the National Weather Service's "Current Snow Depth Map" which is updated daily. (2/9)

Summits: Conditions on summits are more extreme - lower temperatures, more snow & ice and stronger winds. Use the link near the bottom of the right column to view the National Weather Service's "Mountain Forecasts" for selected summits in this area. (2/9)

Ice on Water: Ice has formed on most lakes and ponds. As always, check the depth of ice before crossing and avoid areas around inlets, outlets and running water. Ice that holds snow may not hold the weight of a person. (2/9)

Snowmobiles: Some gates have been opened on designated snowmobile trails in the Essex County an northern Warren County portions of the area. While in the Warren County and Saratoga County portion of this area most gates have not been open due to lack of snow. Check with the DEC, the local snowmobile club or other sources for current trail conditions before going snowmobiling. Skiers and snowshoers using designated snowmobile trails should keep to the sides of the trail to allow safe passage. (2/9)

Hunting Seasons: Small game and waterfowl hunting seasons are 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 the Forest Preserve. Hunting accidents involving non-hunters are extremely rare. (2/9)

Forest Rangers: Due to a number of retirements, transfers and shifting of geographic areas of responsibility for Forest Rangers in the region, there may be some confusion in contacting the correct Forest Ranger to obtain a camping permit or get information on a specific area of the forest preserve. If you have trouble contacting a Forest Ranger please call the 518-897-1303 during regular business hours or use the e-mail link at the bottom of the right column; provide the area you are interested in and the name and phone number of the appropriate Forest Ranger will be provided to you. (8/18)

Specific Notices

Hammond Pond Wild Forest

  • A bridge over Crowfoot Brook on the Crowfoot Trail is out. (10/27)
  • The bridge over the Berrymill Brook on the Hammond Pond Trail is out. (10/27)
  • The Lindsey Brook Trail is closed due to flooding by beaver activity. (2007)

Hoffman Notch Wilderness

  • As of Early Winter 2011, most trails have been cleared of blowdown. (1/26)
  • The bridge over Hoffman Notch Brook on north end of Hoffman Notch Trail has been washed out. (1/26)
  • A section of Big Pond Trail approximately .5 miles in length near East Branch Trout Brook has not been cleared of blow down yet and will provide obstacle for hikers/skiers. (1/26)
  • There is no bridge over East Branch Trout Brook on the Big Pond Trail. (1/26)

Hudson Gorge Primitive Area

  • Blowdown may be found on trails. (2010)

Lake George Wild Forest (Western)

  • Trails on Tongue Mountain are covered with snow and ice. Due to thawing and freezing the footing is slippery - climbing/traction foot wear is highly recommended. (1/26)
  • The Jabe Pond Road is closed to motor vehicles due to snow and ice. The gate will be reopened to snowmobiles once there is enough snow cover on the ground. (1/6)
  • All ADA accessible roads with motor vehicle access for people with Motorized Access Permit for People With Disabilities (MAPPWD). Permit holders must remember to check the allowable vehicle type and call the Warrensburg office (518-623-1209) for the current combination and conditions. (10/6)
  • A few roads in the Hudson River Recreation area are open but have significant washouts and should only be accessed by 4-wheel drive and other high clearance vehicles, these include: (10/6)
    • River Road;
    • Buttermilk Road north of the Town line; and
    • Gay Pond Road before Campsite #13.
  • The following roads or sections of roads remain closed to motor vehicles due to damage caused by Hurricane Irene, they are passable on foot:
    • Buttermilk Road Extension north of the Gay Pond Road;
    • Gay Pond Road past Campsite #13; and
    • the access road to Darlings Ford Waterway Access Site
  • See the Hudson River Special Management Area web page for more information and maps on the facilities, including ADA accessible facilities, in this area. (10/6)
  • A small detour has been made on the Clay Meadow Trail between the foot bridge and the intersection of the red and blue lake side trail. The detour is approximately 100-200 feet in length and goes around a highly eroded section of the trail that has exposed roots of the surrounding trees. The detour is on relatively flat ground and the original trail can be seen from the detour. (2010)
  • Equestrians should be aware that there is significant blowdown on horse trails. While hikers may be able to get through the trails, it may be impossible or at least much harder for horses to get through. Lack of resources, resulting from the state's historic budget shortfall, preclude DEC from clearing trails of blowdown at this time. Individuals or groups that want to volunteer to remove blowdown may contact Senior Forester Tad Norton in the DEC's Warrensburg office at 518-623-1209. (2010)
  • Several designated tent sites in the Hudson River Special Management Area (aka the Hudson River Recreation Area) have been relocated due to over use and vandalism. The parking and access paths to the new locations are clearly marked. Camp at designated sites only. (2010)
  • The Deer Leap trail is washed out and heavily cobbled with boulders from the trail head to the spur to Deer Leap, but is passable on foot. (2007)

Pharaoh Lake Wilderness

  • The bridge over Mud Pond Outlet between Putnam Pond and Treadway Mountain Trails has been replaced. (12/22)
  • The following trails have been cleared of blowdown: (12/22)
    • Rock Pond Trail
    • Rock Pond to Lilypad Pond Trail
    • Crab Pond to Lilypad Pond Trail
    • Bear Pond Trail
  • The bridges over Mill Brook and Pharaoh Brook on the Mill Brook-Pharaoh Lake Trail have been replaced. (10/27)
  • The trails along the northern and western sides of Pharaoh Lake (the two trails between the Lake and Glidden Marsh) have extensive blowdown in the sections along the lake. (9/13)
  • The Springhill Pond Trail has extensive, large-sized blowdown along the entire length from parking area on West Hague Road to Pharaoh Lake. (9/13)
  • The Glidden Marsh Trail has mild blowdown but the downed trees are large. (9/13)
  • The Blue Hill Trail has larger sized blowdown (greater than 2 feet diameter)and some minor trail washout from streams jumping banks. (9/12)
  • The Sucker Brook Horse Trail contains extensive blowdown. (9/12)
  • The bridge over Wolf Pond Outlet on the East Shore Pharaoh Lake Trail was replaced. There is a short reroute between the bridge and the intersection for the Swing Trail. (7/21)
  • The Glidden Marsh-Pharaoh Lake Trail on the north side of the lake has been moved up hill from the lake. Follow the Blue Trail Markers. (7/21)

Santanoni Historic Preserve

  • Two more Winter Weekend events will be held at historic Camp Santanoni this season. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers will be able to access the Gate Lodge, the Main Lodge and the Artist's Studio, view interpretative displays, and take interpretive tours. The Winter Weekend events are being hosted by DEC, Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH), the town of Newcomb and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry's (ESF) Adirondack Interpretive Center. AARCH staff will staff the Artist's Studio, which will serve as a warming hut with a fire and hot beverages, and provide tours of the Main Lodge. The Adirondack Interpretive Center will provide snowshoes to lend to visitors at the Gate Lodge. Events will also be held on the President's Day holiday weekend, February 18-20, and the weekend of March 17-18. See the press release for additional information. (1/26)
  • The carriage road between the Gate House and the Main Lodge at Camp Santanoni is skiable, backcountry trails in the area are in rough shape. (1/26)

Siamese Ponds Wilderness

  • The Town of Johnsburg has replaced the culvert on Old Farm Road, motor vehicles can now access the Old Farm Clearing Trailhead. (1/26)
  • The bridge over Chatiemac Brook on the Second Pond Trail has been replaced. (1/26)
  • The bridge over William Blake Pond Outlet on the Halfway Brook/William Blake Pond Trail that was washed out in the Spring 2011 has been replaced. (1/26)
  • DEC has closed the Eagle Cave between October 15 and April 30 to protect hibernating bats. (10/13)
  • The Peaked Mountain Trail contains blowdown from the beaver pond to the summit of Peaked Mountain. (9/19)
  • Hour Pond Trail and Hour Pond Cut-off to Thirteenth Lake have a some blowdown. (9/8)
  • The Puffer Pond Trail from Chimney Mountain. Trailhead has 4-5 blowdowns all easy to get around, most closer to the height of ground. (9/3)
  • Beavers have a built a dam directly above the foot bridge over Cisco Creek on the Kunjamuck Trail, both ends of the bridge may be flooded at times. (6/23)
  • The Puffer Pond - Kings Flow Trail (Upper Trail) to Puffer Pond is blocked by beaver ponds. A temporary reroute has been marked to the north and upstream of the beaver dam. Hikers can also take the King Flows East Trail to the Puffer Pond Brook (Outlet) Trail to reach Puffer Pond. (6/23)

Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest

  • The Boreas River crossing on the Cheney Pond - Irishtown Trail is not bridged. During low water conditions, crossing by rock hopping may be possible. (2006)

Wilcox Lake Wild Forest

  • The Oregon Trail has minor blowdown between Baldwin Springs and North Bend, the North Bend Bridge is flooded but intact. (9/12)
  • The Spur Trail between West Stony Creek Road and Baldwin Springs has extensive blowdown. (9/12)
  • The Cotter Swamp Trail is passable with minor blowdown. (9/12)
  • The Griffin Connector Trail is passable with minor blowdown. (9/12)
  • The Crane Mountain Trails are passable with minor blowdown. (9/12)
  • There is substantial blowdown on the Stony Creek Trail to Wilcox Lake beyond that to the east Stony Creek bridge; blowdown continues up the trail to Wilcox Lake. The lean-tos and both bridges are in good shape. (9/1)
  • The Crane Mountain Trail Head is accessible from the south by car and truck by way of Ski Hi Road via Putnam Cross Road. The south end of Ski Hi Road is washed out but Putnam Cross Road bypasses the washout. The north access by way of Crane Mountain. Rd is washed out and not accessible with any vehicle. (9/1)
  • Mud Pond Road contains washouts, it is recommended that it be used by trucks only. (9/1)
  • There are multiple trees down on the Pumpkin Hollow Road at the Wilcox Lake Trailhead preventing access to the Wilcox Lake Trail, the Murphy Lake Trail and the Pine Orchard Trail. (8/31)
  • The bridge over a small stream just north of Fish Ponds on the Bartman Trail is out. (6/23)
  • Trails to Wilcox Lake (Stony Creek Trail) and Tenant Falls beginning at the end of the Hope Falls Road, cross private property. While DEC does have a trail easement for the East Stony Creek Trail to Wilcox Lake, there is no formal agreement with the landowner for access to the Tenant Falls Trail. DEC is working on a resolution to this matter. In the meanwhile, hikers and day uses must respect the private driveway at the trailhead and not block it. Also respect the landowner's privacy - stay on the trail, do not enter the private property. (2010)
  • The bridge over Georgia Creek on the Cotter Brook Trail is under water due to beaver activity. (2010)
  • The Pine Orchard Trail is flooded due to beaver activity .5 mile south of Pine Orchard. (2010)
  • The Dayton Creek bridge is out on the trail from Brownell Camp (at the end of Hope Falls Road) to Wilcox Lake. During low water conditions crossing can be made by rock hopping. (2004)
    The Murphy Lake Trail is brushy and difficult to follow along the east shore of the lake from the lean-to to the outlet. (2004)
  • Also the Murphy Lake Trail is flooded at the north end of Murphy Lake. (2004)

More about Trail Information for the Eastern Adirondacks: