For Release: Wednesday, January 9, 2008

DEC Extends Public Comment Period on Draft Adirondack Trail Plan

Comments Will Be Accepted Until February 15, 2008

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will be providing the public additional time to offer comments on the draft plan for the Adirondack portion of the North Country National Scenic Trail, a 140-mile trail, winding from Boonville on the western edge of the Adirondack Mountains to Crown Point on the shores of Lake Champlain.

The plan would cover the eastern boundary of a hiking trail that's been talked about for two decades. The North Country National Scenic Trail is similar in concept to the Appalachian Trail; however, rather than follow a mountain range, it would take visitors through a diverse series of landscapes in seven states. Running from Crown Point, NY, to Lake Sakakawea, ND, the 4,600-mile route would connect national forests, scenic areas and other significant resources. In New York, the path would capitalize on existing major trail networks such as the Finger Lakes Trail and the Onondaga Trail.

In the Adirondack Park, the trail would utilize approximately 70 miles of existing paths and would require approximately 50 miles of new trail construction, along with some temporary connectors. The ultimate goal is a route that is completely off-road and non-motorized, though the proposal includes some temporary roadside paths. The proposed route would go through nine different wilderness or Wild Forest areas (including the Moose River Plains and the Hudson River Gorge) as it meanders generally northeast from the hamlet of Forestport to Crown Point.

Comments are welcome and will be accepted until Friday, February 15. For more information on the plan, downloadable copies, and where to submit comments, visit the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/39658.html .