For Release: Friday, December 5, 2008
DEC Advises Backcountry Visitors to Be Prepared for Winter Conditions in the Adirondacks
Snowshoes, Skis Strongly Recommended For All Trails
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis today advised visitors to the backcountry of the Adirondacks to be prepared for snow, ice and cold, and to make sure to use proper equipment.
"Winter offers some great opportunities for outdoor recreation, but it also creates conditions that can be troublesome, and even dangerous, to the unprepared," Commissioner Grannis said. "The snow cover in the Adirondacks is more than three feet deep in the higher elevations. While people visiting the Eastern High Peaks are required to use snowshoes or cross-country skis for the safety of themselves and others, we strongly recommend that visitors to other part of the Adirondacks do the same."
DEC Forest Rangers recently rescued two people in separate incidents in the High Peaks Wilderness. Neither of them was fully prepared or equipped for the winter conditions they faced. One man spent two nights in the wilderness in sub-freezing temperatures before being located and taken to get medical treatment.
The use of snowshoes or skis is required on trails in the Eastern High Peaks and strongly encouraged on all other trails in the Adirondacks. The use of snowshoes or skis prevents sudden falls or "post-holing," avoids injuries, and eases travel on snow. Ice crampons should be carried for use on icy mountaintops and other exposed areas.
In addition, backcountry visitors should follow these safety guidelines:
- Dress properly with layers of wool and fleece (NOT COTTON!) clothing: a wool or fleece hat, gloves or mittens, wind/rain resistant outer wear, and winter boots.
- Carry a day pack with the following contents: Ice axe, plenty of food and water, extra clothing, map and compass, first-aid kit, flashlight/headlamp, sun glasses, sun-block protection, ensolite pads, stove and extra fuel, and bivy sack or space blankets.
- Drink plenty of water -- dehydration can lead to hypothermia.
- Eat plenty of food to maintain energy levels and warmth.
- Check weather before entering the woods -- if the weather is poor, postpone your trip. The mountains will always be there.
- Be aware of weather conditions at all times -- if weather worsens, head out of the woods.
- Contact the DEC at (518) 897-1200 to determine trail conditions in the area you plan to visit.
Adirondack Trail Information can be found on the DEC web site. The web pages provide general information and seasonal conditions, specific notices on closures and other situations involving trails, roads, foot bridges, etc., and links to rules & regulations, hiker and camper safety, low impact recreation, weather and more.
