DEC Advises Backcountry Visitors of Winter Conditions in the Catskills
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 01/22/2020 04:40 PM ESTDEC Delivers Press Release - Information to keep you connected and informed from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation |
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DEC Advises Backcountry Visitors of Winter Conditions in the Catskills |
Winter Recreational Opportunities Available with Proper Preparation and PrecautionsRecent snow, ice, and cold weather have created harsh conditions for winter outdoor recreation in the Catskill backcountry, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos announced today. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for snow, ice, and cold to ensure a safe and enjoyable winter experience. "Now that the colder weather has arrived in the Catskills, visitors can take advantage of all the winter recreation opportunities in the park," Commissioner Seggos said. "However, harsh weather can create dangerous situations to visitors that are unprepared. DEC advises visitors exploring the backcountry to properly prepare for winter recreation and encourages the use of traction devices and snowshoes to navigate trails where appropriate." Snow depths currently range from three to four inches across the central and western portion of the Catskills. At higher elevations and mountain summits, snow depths range from six to 10 inches. Visitors should expect ice on trails, exposed outlooks and mountain summits. The National Weather Service NERFC Snow Page provides detailed maps depicting current snow depths and forecasts. Due to variable winter conditions such as ice and snow, be cautious of weighted down and fallen trees. Down trees can obscure trail markers and make trails more difficult to locate. For backcountry travel, DEC recommends micro-spikes and snowshoes for use as the winter progresses. Traction devices should always be carried on all hikes for use on icy portions of the trail including summits and other exposed areas. All seasonal access roads are closed to motor vehicle traffic. These roads will reopen after the spring mud season upon completion of maintenance and repair work. Seasonal access roads designated as snowmobile trails will be opened to snowmobile traffic as snow depths allow. Many snowmobile trails remain closed despite recent snowfall. Additional snow is needed to provide a good base for snowmobile travel. Visitors should check with local snowmobile clubs to determine the status and condition of specific trails or view the New York State Snowmobile Association Interactive Trail Map. Ice is forming on ponds, lakes, slow moving streams, and backwaters of rivers. Ice is not safe to walk or stand on at this time. Although ice has snow on the surface, it does not mean the ice is thick enough to hold the weight of a person. Ice will remain unsafe until temperatures fall below freezing for a significant, continuous period. For more information about ice safety, go to DEC's website. To ensure a safe backcountry experience, visitors should also follow these additional safety guidelines:
The DEC Catskill Backcountry Information webpage provides current trail condition information and links to current weather and snow cover as well as other important information to help ensure a safe and enjoyable Catskill backcountry winter experience. For more information on winter safety in the backcountry, visit DEC's HikeSmartNY webpage. |