Travel Safely and Sustainably on New York's Trails
We are “almost” through winter and on the path to spring. While spring officially arrives on March 19, in the interim we will still be experiencing some temporary thaws, and occasional snow and rain showers. Also typical of March is the start of an increased presence of mud on New York’s trails. Although the early spring weather may make you want to hit all the trails, consider choosing those that are paved, hardened, or at lower elevations. When encountering mud, slush, or puddles, stay on the trail and walk through them to help protect plants and prevent erosion. It is always important to take safety measures when walking on trails during mud season—and it is equally important to practice the principles of “Leave No Trace™.” No matter what time of year you hike, practice being sustainable and safe. Be sure you:
- Plan ahead—use maps, guides, and DEC’s website. Don’t forget to check the trail conditions when planning.
- Headed to the Adirondacks? Sign up to receive weekly trail conditions to your inbox.
- Know the weather conditions before heading out, as well as what it was like in the days before to be prepared for current trail conditions and to pack gear accordingly. Note that snowshoes or skis are required in the High Peaks Wilderness when snow depths exceed 8 inches. Snow, ice, mud—whatever the condition, make sure your footwear is appropriate and comfortable.
- Pack the 10 Hiking Essentials and Hike Smart NY.
- Wear layers and bring extras in case you get wet. Other clothing notes:
- Avoid cotton—it holds moisture.
- Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics keep skin dry and help regulate body temperature year-round.
- Light colored clothing makes it easier to see ticks. Read more about how to “Be Tick Free.”
- Share Your Plans ahead of time. Tell someone where you are going, what time you are leaving, and when you plan to return. It is a good idea to charge your phone ahead of time, but note that you might not have cell service out on the trail. If there is one, sign the book at the trail head letting our Forest Rangers know you are on the trail. Sign out of the trail book when you return and let your contact person know you are safely back.
- Leave as little impact as possible by staying on designated trails and take your trash home with you. Pack out garbage, food scraps, broken gear, and more. If hiking with dogs, make sure they are on a leash and carry plastic bags to pack out your dog’s waste.
- Preserve the environment—leave feathers, rocks, and leaves where you find them. Do not deface trees, lean-tos, or other outdoor structures.
- Follow campfire rules and safety. Look up regulations on the state land you will be exploring to make sure fires are permitted. Warming temperatures and low humidity in the spring can create heightened conditions for wildfires. If building a campfire, use on site down or dead wood and when finished, confirm the fire is completely out. Never leave a fire unattended.
- Respect wildlife—do not approach, follow, or feed the animals. Enjoy them from a distance and remember you are in their home. Do not disturb the plants and their flowers. Protect and preserve our environment for your next visit and so others can also enjoy.
- Look out for storms—and be prepared to turn back any time conditions warrant.
- Be hospitable to other visitors while sharing the outdoors. Be courteous of all other users regardless of their sport, speed, or skill level. On narrow trails, yield to oncoming hikers and when going downhill, yield to hikers going uphill. When arriving, park in designated parking areas so you do not block gates, entrances, exits, or other vehicles.
- Keep calm if lost or injured. Make sure you call 911 or DEC Dispatch 1-833-NYS-RANGERS should an emergency arise.
Read more about how to Leave No TraceTM.