Emergency Situations: If you get lost or injured; keep calm and stay put. If you have cell service, call 911 or the DEC Forest Ranger Emergency Dispatch, 833-NYS-RANGERS. To see a list of forest rangers in the Adirondack Park see the list for Region 5 rangers, and Region 6 rangers.
High Peaks
Adirondack Canoe Route/Northern Forest Canoe Trail
- The Adirondack Canoe Route is part of the 740-mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT) which links the waterways of New York, Vermont, Québec, New Hampshire and Maine.
Adirondack Mountain Reserve Conservation Easement Tract (AMR/Ausable Club)
- The Adirondack Mountain Reserve Conservation Easement Tract webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Rules specific to this property include no camping, no dogs, no drones, and no off-trail travel.
- The easement agreement provides for public hiking only on designated trails and roads. Do not trespass on AMR lands and waters or participate in any unauthorized activities. (2020)
- The Parking Reservation System has concluded for the 2023 season - For more information, view a list of frequently asked questions (PDF).
Boreas Ponds Tract
- The Boreas Ponds Tract webpage provides information about the area and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the area.
- The Boreas Ponds Lean-to offers the only designated camping location on Boreas Ponds currently. Prior to DEC's construction of the 2 designated campsites on Boreas Ponds, primitive camping must be done at least 150' from the shoreline. Signage is installed at impacted sites within 150' of the shoreline to remind campers not to use these areas and to camp at an appropriate distance. Thank you for helping to protect the natural resource and the Wilderness Experience of all future users by following the 150' rule when selecting a site.
- Gulf Brook Road is gated to motor vehicles for the season but is open to snowshoers and skiers. The lower parking lot may not be plowed during the winter.
- Management of the Boreas Ponds Tract is defined by the 2018 High Peaks Wilderness UMP Amendment and the 2018 Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest UMP Amendment. The amendments describe the management, access, and public recreational opportunities available for the lands and waters on this tract of land. (2018)
High Peaks Wilderness
- The High Peaks Wilderness webpage provides information about the area, its recreational opportunities, and the special regulations that serve to protect the natural resource of the wilderness and the experience of those who visit.
- The bridge over Herbert Brook on the Calamity Brook Trail is out and will be out until Spring 2024. Please use caution when crossing this location during high water.
- Tahawus Road will be closed to all traffic for repairs beginning on December 4. Construction is expected to conclude December 15. Overnight users should empty the parking lot before construction begins. (11/9)
- Per the conservation easement agreement with Elk Lake Lodge, the Gate at Clear Pond will be closed to Public Motor Vehicles as of the morning of October 16, 2023, and will not re-open until after mud season in May of 2024. Hikers will need to park at the Upper Elk Lake Road Parking Lot on the west side of the Elk Lake Road approximately 2.3 miles south of the Elk Lake Parking Lot and Trailhead. From the evening of October 20 until the morning of December 4, no hikers may enter the Elk Lake Conservation Easement. (10/12/23)
- The Moose Pond Horse Trail has extensive blowdown and has grown in considerably north of Shaw Pond. Saddle horse use north of Shaw Pond to the Cold River Horse Trail Junction may be very difficult to navigate. The Moose Pond Horse Trail, which leaves the Newcomb Lake Road north of the Camp Santanoni Farm Complex provides access into the High Peaks Wilderness, the areas west of the Santanoni Mountain Range and connects with the Cold River Horse Trail Network. (5/25)
- Multiple lean-tos in the Flowed Lands area were repaired during the 2023 construction season and more work is planned for 2024. Please respect staged materials in the greater Flowed Lands area and avoid disturbing or moving any lumber materials you find during your adventure. The work of volunteers including Lean2Rescue and the Adirondack 46er Trail Crew are instrumental in helping DEC manage the HPWC, protect the natural resources and preserve the Wilderness Experience of all users.
- The gate on Corey's Road Road to access the Seward Range is now closed and will likely remain closed for the foreseeable future until the road dries out. (2/29/24)
- DEC has closed the Motor Vehicle access to the Cascade Day Use area for the winter. Parking remains available at any of the DOT pulloffs along Rt 73 east or west of this location. The gate will be opened in the spring of 2024 after the snow and ice have melted. (12/5/23)
- The Bridge over South Meadow Brook on the Klondike Trail was removed due to a broken stringer and unsafe conditions. Hikers can follow the South Meadow Trail to the Mt Van Ski Trail to gain access to the Klondike Trail. (2021)
- The trail from Lake Arnold to Feldspar Brook is experiencing extensive flooding. Crossing flooded areas on floating logs and old pieces of bridging is dangerous and should be avoided when possible. Seek alternate routes. If you must cross, be prepared to wade through deep water. (2021)
- The high-water crossing footbridge over Phelps Brook on the VanHo Trail to Mt. Marcy just above Marcy Dam came to the end of its service life and was removed by DEC. When Phelps Brook is running high and the low water crossing is unsafe, hikers can use the newly developed Phelps Brook Lean-to Trail between the South Meadow (aka Marcy Dam Truck) Trail (0.5 mile north of Marcy Dam) and the Van Ho Trail (above the crossing). The trail is marked with red Foot Trail markers. (10/2021)
- DEC and other agencies will be enforcing the No Parking Zones along State Route 73. (2023)
- The Town of Keene prohibits parking along Johns Brook, Market, and Adirondack Streets in Keene Valley. Violators will be towed.(2023)
- The Opalescent Bridge on the East River Trail to Allen Mountain and Hanging Spear Falls is washed out. (2020)
- Cold Brook Trail is not maintained. The trail has not been maintained since Tropical Storm Irene. (2020)
- The trail to Little Porter Mountain from the Garden Trailhead is closed. The portion of the trail crossing private land has been closed to public use by the landowner. Trespassing on those lands is now prohibited. The summit of Little Porter Mountain can still be accessed from the Marcy Field Trailhead or the Cascade Mountain Trailhead. (2020)
- Many of the herd paths found on Mount Marshall and some of the other trail-less peaks meander around the slopes of the mountain without reaching the peak. Those climbing these peaks should navigate with a map and compass rather than follow the paths created by others. (2020)
- Blueberry Horse Trail is passable to horses and riders, however, riders should take care near drainages and several stream crossings that will be muddy. DEC plans to improve the trail tread of this route in the future. (2020)
- The bridge over Ouluska Brook on the Northville-Placid Trail has collapsed into the brook. During low water conditions, crossing the brook is still possible. (2020)
- The Calkins Creek Horse Trail has two bridges out, making it impassable for horse drawn wagons and difficult for horses. (2020)
- Once again the private landowners have agreed to allow hiking on Owls Head Trail during the week. Parking at the trailhead and hiking the trail are prohibited on weekends. (2020)
Dix Mountain Tract
- The Dix Mountain Tract webpage provides information about the area and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the area. This will be incorporated into the High Peaks Wilderness webpage in the near future.
- The lands of the Dix Mountain Tract are now part of the High Peaks Wilderness. (2020)
- DEC will be changing signs, webpages, and regulations to transition to the High Peaks Wilderness.
- All regulations applicable to the High Peaks Wilderness are now in effect including, but not limited to:
- Group size: Groups should consist of no more than 15 hikers and no more than 8 campers.
- Glass Containers: Glass containers are prohibited.
- Information about the former Dix Mountain Area may be found in the High Peaks Wilderness section above.
Jay Mountain Wilderness
- The Jay Mountain Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Jay Mountain Road is managed by the Town of Lewis and is a seasonal road. The road is not maintained from October - April, effectively closing it to public automobile use during that time.
Northville-Placid Trail
- The bridge over Ouluska Brook has collapsed into the brook. The brook is passable during low water conditions. (2020)
Sentinel Range Wilderness
- The Sentinel Range Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Several sections of the Pitchoff Mountain Trail, including the segment to "Balanced Rocks", are severely eroded. These areas are challenging to navigate. Please use caution and turn back if it is too difficult for your party to safely cross. (2020)
- Beaver activity has flooded some parts of the Jack Rabbit Trail. (2020)
Other areas in the High Peaks:
Northwestern
Grass River Wild Forest (includes Cranberry Forest, Grass River, Long Pond, Sevey's, Silver Lake, and Tooley Pond Conservation Easement Tracts)
- The Grass River Complex webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Public motorized access to Allen Pond via the Allen Pond Road on the Tooley Pond Conservation Easement is closed and will remain closed until the end of mud season. (1/17/24)
- As of Tuesday, March 5, snowmobile trails are closed for the season. Gates will be shut and locked to ensure public safety and protect roads and trails during mud season. (3/5/2024)
- Access to the Forest Preserve River Corridor along the South Branch of the Grass River via the Windfall or Buckhorn Roads is open for the season. (05/11)
- The St. Lawrence County Multi-use Trail, which crosses the Grass River, Long Pond, and Tooley Pond Conservation Easements, closed for the season on September 15. (09/15)
Raquette Boreal Complex (includes Five Mile, Goldmine, Hollywood Mountain, Hungry Bay, Kildare, Peaked Hill, Preston Lot and Stark Conservation Easement Tracts)
- The Raquette Boreal Complex webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- As of Tuesday, March 5, snowmobile trails are closed for the season. Gates will be shut and locked to ensure public safety and protect roads and trails during mud season. (3/5/2024)
- Access to the Five Mile Conservation Easement closed for the season on September 30. (10/14)
Northern
Adirondack Rail Trail
- Details are available on the rail trail webpage. Please respect posted signage and barricades in work areas and email [email protected] with questions.
- Lake Placid to Saranac Lake: OPEN for public use. Please respect posted signage and barricades.
- Closure to Snowmobiles: As of 2/15/24, the gates are currently closed between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake on the Adirondack Rail Trail which is currently closed to snowmobiling due to a lack of snowpack. Like many trails in the Forest Preserve, current trail conditions are variable, consisting of snow, ice, and bare pavement/stone dust. Be cautious of frozen ruts and uneven terrain along the trail. Please note that because snowmobile use along the trail is dependent on ever-changing snow conditions, you should check with your local and county snowmobile clubs for up-to-date trail conditions from the time you read this. (2/15/24)
- Saranac Lake to Floodwood Road, Town of Santa Clara: CLOSED for public use. Use of the corridor is prohibited for the duration of the construction contract except during the winter shutdown between December 18 to March 31. Please respect posted signage and barricades.
- Beginning on Friday, 8/18, the section of the trail in Saranac Lake, stretching from Route 86 to North Country Community College is undergoing paving. During this time, it will be unsafe for recreational use. The public should refrain from using this section of the trail during the construction period. Pavement will be used on this short section of high-use trail in order to provide a consistent surface throughout the village.
- Tupper Lake: Interim recreation is allowed at users' own risk on this unimproved section of the corridor. Public use may be limited or restricted in sections due to hazardous conditions or active construction or maintenance. ATV use is prohibited. Please respect posted signage and barricades.
- Saranac Lake Depot: Work began on the parking lot at the Saranac Lake Depot
Debar Mountain Wild Forest
- The Loon Lake Mountain Fire Tower is closed for public use.
- The Debar Mountain Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The Loon Lake Mountain Fire Tower is closed for public use. (12/7/23)
- The Skiff Pond Trail is impassable due to washout. The washout is 0.25 miles south of the parking area at Debar Meadows. Skiff Pond can be accessed by taking the Debar Meadows to Meacham Lake Trail for about 1.8 miles to the intersection with the Skiff Pond Trail and turning east towards Skiff Pond (6/29)
- Debar Meadows Road is closed to public vehicle use. (12/14/23)
- Trespassing in Debar Lodge or any other building is prohibited.
Kushaqua Conservation Easement Tract
- The Kushaqua Tract Conservation Easement Tract webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Mud season has arrived and mud locks are on; all roads are closed to public motorized use. In instances where an open gate is encountered, that does not mean the road is open to public motorized use. To protect the integrity of the road system, all roads are closed to motorized use for mud season regardless of gate status. (3/20/24)
- Logging is in progress in the vicinity of the Mountain Pond Road. The road is being used as a haul road and is closed to ALL motorized use for the duration of the operation. Non-motorized users of the road should use extreme caution and expect to encounter log trucks. (12/11/23)
- Reminder that this is a working forest conservation easement and users of the property should expect to encounter log trucks and logging equipment at any time. Keep a safe distance, use caution, and always yield to them.
Santa Clara Conservation Easement Tract
- The Santa Clara Tract Conservation Easement Tract webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The Madawaska, Pinnacle, Four Mile, and Vanderwalker roads are closed to public vehicles. (12/14/23)
- Mud season has arrived and mud locks are on; all roads are closed to public motorized use. In instances where an open gate is encountered, that does not mean the road is open to public motorized use. To protect the integrity of the road system, all roads are closed to motorized use for mud season regardless of gate status. (3/20/24)
Saranac Lakes Wild Forest
- The Saranac Lake Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and maps of the unit.
- Upper Locks Closure Begins Sept. 18 - Rehabilitation work will begin Sept. 18 and will close the Upper Locks between Upper Saranac and Middle Saranac Lakes. The project is expected to be complete in 2024. (9/7/23)
- The trail from Echo Pond to Cobble Hill and the Purple Trail is flooded by beaver activity. Sections of these trails are very muddy. Hikers and bikers should avoid using the Purple Trail or the trail up the east side of Cobble Hill. (8/17)
- A section of the Bloomingdale Bog Trail, about 0.75 miles west of the State Route 86 parking area, is flooded. (12/7/23)
- Scarface Mountain Trail – The bridge over Ray Brook on the Scarface Mountain Trail is out. This bridge is located 0.5 miles from the trailhead. The Scarface Mountain Trail is closed at that point. (12/7/23)
- The road to Saint Germain and Meadow ponds is closed. (12/7/23)
- Little Clear Pond Road is closed. (12/7/23)
- Connery Pond Road is now closed. (12/7/23)
Saint Regis Canoe Area
- The Saint Regis Canoe Area webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and maps of the unit.
- The canoe carry between Hoel Pond and Turtle Pond crosses the Adirondack Rail Trail. Construction is underway on this portion of the Adirondack Rail Trail. Those carrying across should watch for construction vehicles and use caution when crossing. (6/8)
- A section of the canoe carry between Floodwood Road, near Floodwood Pond, and Long Pond is flooded. Visitors may need to paddle across the flooded section. (5/25)
Other areas in Northern Adirondacks:
Northeastern
Black Brook Conservation Easement Tract
- The Taylor Pond Wild Forest webpage provides information about the Black Brook Conservation Easement Tract and other conservation easement lands within the Taylor Pond Complex, including recreational opportunities and a map of the area.
- Motorized use is NOT permitted on the property. Snowmobile access is limited to designated routes only and as conditions permit. Cars, trucks, ATV’s & UTV’s are not allowed. Park at designated parking areas and access by non-motorized means only.
- Snowmobiles are prohibited on the portion of the Stevens Road between the gate at the north end of the property line and Guideboard Road to the south. Riders must stay on the designated C8 Route along Fern Lake Road, there is no alternate route through the property.
Sable Highlands Conservation Easement Tract
- The Sable Highlands Conservation Easement Tract webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Mud season has arrived and mud locks are on; all roads are closed to public motorized use. In instances where an open gate is encountered, that does not mean the road is open to public motorized use. To protect the integrity of the road system, all roads are closed to motorized use for mud season regardless of gate status. (3/20/24)
- All gates will be closed through the end of mud season to protect the integrity of the roads. This includes MAPPWD Routes. (12/21/23)
- Piney Ridge Road is closed until further notice due to multiple severe washouts. (7/20)
- The bridge across Ouleout Creek on the Cobble Hill Public Use Area is CLOSED TO ALL, including pedestrians. (7/6)
- Reminder: public ATV & UTV'S are prohibited on the property with the exception of Wolf Pond Road, which is a Town road.
- The wheelchair ramp at the Fishpole Pond Accessible Fishing Site was damaged by a wildfire and is unusable. (2020)
- Reminder that this is a working forest conservation easement and users of the property should expect to encounter log trucks and logging equipment at any time. Keep a safe distance, use caution, and always yield to them.
Terry Mountain State Forest
- The Mud Pond Road is now closed for mud season. (3/14/24)
Ausable Marsh Wildlife Management Area
- The gate on the access road into Ausable Marsh WMA is closed due to flooding. (12/21/23)
Kings Bay Wildlife Management Area
- Catfish bay and Point Au fer gates are closed.
Other areas in Northern Adirondacks:
- Ausable Marsh Wildlife Management Area
- Kings Bay Wildlife Management Area
- Chazy Highlands Wild Forest
- Lake Champlain Islands Complex
- Taylor Pond Complex
- Wilmington Wild Forest
Western
Aldrich Pond Wild Forest (includes Aldrich and Sucker Lake Conservation Easement Tracts)
- The Aldrich Pond Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Powell Road leading to South Creek Lake often experiences flooded conditions due to beaver activity. Users should exercise caution and be aware of changing road conditions throughout the seasons. (2020)
Bog River Complex (Lows Lake, Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest, and Big Tupper/Piercefield Flow Conservation Easement Tracts)
- The Bog River Complex webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The work on Low’s Lower Dam has ended for the 2023 field season, but the project has not been completed. Repairs will continue in the spring of 2024 and the area is expected to remain closed through the fall of 2024. Additional information can be found in the updated press release (DEC Reminds Visitors of Lows Lower Dam Access Road Closure). (12/13/23).
- Access to Hitchens Pond and Low's Lake during construction will require extensive portages, and users are advised to seek other areas to visit while the construction project is in progress. More information can be found in the full press release.
- The Student Conservation Association (SCA) and DEC Operations recently completed improvements to 43 primitive campsites on Hitchens Pond and Lows Lake which included rebuilt fire rings, privy maintenance / moving, sign replacement, hazard tree removal, and addition of new privies to 11 sites. (Round Lake Wilderness Area, Eastern Five Ponds Access Primitive Area, Five Ponds Wilderness Area). (11/23)
- Tahawus Trails recently completed work on the Mt. Arab Fire Tower trail, which included replacement of a 50' wooden staircase, a 185 foot trail re-route to avoid a steep rock slope, and maintenance of 45 waterbars. (Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest and Conifer-Emporium Conservation Easement). (11/23)
- The Otterbrook Road recently received maintenance including geotextile and stone placement along 2,000' of road accessing campsites near Horseshoe Lake. (Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest). (11/23)
Cranberry Lake Wild Forest (includes Conifer-Emporium and Massawepie Conservation Easement Tracts)
- The Cranberry Lake Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- As of Tuesday, March 5, snowmobile trails are closed for the season. Gates will be shut and locked to ensure public safety and protect roads and trails during mud season. (3/5/24)
Five Ponds Wilderness
- The Five Ponds Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The Remsen Lake Placid Travel Corridor (Railroad) is considered an active railroad. The railroad is undergoing maintenance adjacent to the Five Ponds Wilderness Area and William C. Whitney Wilderness Area. There is an increase in traffic from trains and equipment working on rehabilitation of the railroad through this section. Users are reminded that the railroad tracks between Harrington Brook and the carry to Clear Pond and Bog Lake (Five Ponds Wilderness) are not a DEC trail and should not be used as a canoe carry when the railroad is active. (09/01)
- The footbridge over Glasby Creek located on the High Falls Loop/Cranberry Lake 50 Trail was recently replaced. (2021)
- The Darning Needle Pond, Fishpole Pond, and Olmstead Pond Trails recently received trail work including new drainage structures, hardening of wet sections of trail, and new trail markers. (2021)
- The Olmstead Pond Trail (part of the Cranberry Lake 50 Trail) has several sections of flooding near the pond due to beaver activity. Users should expect wet conditions and may require short bushwacks around flooded sections of trail until water levels recede. (2021)
- The Student Conservation Association (SCA) and DEC Operations recently completed improvements to 43 primitive campsites on Hitchens Pond and Lows Lake which included rebuilt fire rings, privy maintenance / moving, sign replacement, hazard tree removal, and addition of new privies to 11 sites. (Round Lake Wilderness Area, Eastern Five Ponds Access Primitive Area, Five Ponds Wilderness Area). (11/23)
Watson's East Triangle Wild Forest (Croghan Tract and Oswegatchie Conservation Easements)
- The Watson's East Triangle Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit, and its recreational opportunities and a map of the unit.
- All mud season gates will be shut March 8th. DEC will reopen the roads once they are dry enough to safely handle motor vehicle traffic and necessary maintenance is completed. (3/6/24)
- The Steam Sleigh Trail (snowmobile trail) will not be groomed this year. (11/23)
William C. Whitney Wilderness & Round Lake Wilderness
- The William C. Whitney Wilderness & Round Lake Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit, and its recreational opportunities and a map of the unit.
- Lake Lila Road is closed until spring.
- The Remsen Lake Placid Travel Corridor (Railroad) is considered an active railroad. The railroad is undergoing maintenance adjacent to the Five Ponds Wilderness Area and William C. Whitney Wilderness Area. There is an increase in traffic from trains and equipment working on rehabilitation of the railroad through this section. Users are reminded that the railroad tracks between Harrington Brook and the carry to Clear Pond and Bog Lake (Five Ponds Wilderness) are not a DEC trail and should not be used as a canoe carry when the railroad is active. (09/01)
Other areas in Western Adirondacks:
West Central
Blue Mountain Wild Forest
- The Blue Mountain Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Township 19 Conservation Easement - O’Neil Flow Road is closed due to winter conditions (12/23).
- Township 20 Conservation Easement - Minerva Club Road and Pickwickett Pond Road (access to Fishing Brook) are closed for the winter season (12/23).
- The access road to the radio towers on Blue Mountain is a private road. The use of the road by people other than authorized personnel with administrative duties is prohibited and is considered trespassing. (2020)
Blue Ridge Wilderness & Wakely Mountain Primitive Area
- The Blue Ridge Wilderness and Wakely Mountain Primitive Area webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Cedar River Road will be closed for the winter season. The Wakely Mountain Fire Tower trail will not be accessible by motor vehicles (12/7/23)
- Waterway access to South Inlet and Raquette Lake from the Rt. 28 pull off may be limited due to bridge construction. (5/18)
Moose River Plains Complex
- The Moose River Plains Complex webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- West Mountain Trail (southern access from Uncas Road) - Flooding near the Beaver Brook has been bridged and the trail connection restored. (8/17)
- The Moose River Plains gates are closed on both sides. (3/6/24)
- Wilson Ridge Trail - The Little Moose Lake Outlet crossing is difficult to cross due to beaver activity.
- Otter Brook Trail - Fording the Otter Brook may be difficult during periods of high water. The trail east of Otter Brook is overgrown and blown down trees may impede travel.
- Sly Pond Trail - Encroaching vegetation and fallen trees will impede travel. The trail may be difficult to follow in areas, especially closer to Sly Pond.
- Indian Lake Road is closed to motor vehicles at the Falls Pond Outlet. A temporary foot bridge is in place.
Northville-Placid Trail
- The Sucker Brook Trail which connects the Northville-Placid Trail and the DEC Lewey Lake Campground is unmaintained beyond the height of ground between Lewey Mountain and Cellar Mountain, about 4.4 miles west of the campground.
- Beyond the height of ground blowdown, wet stretches of trail, and beaver activity make the trail difficult to follow.
- Access to Colvin Brook Lean-to and the Northville Placid Trail may be gained from the Moose River Plains trailhead off Limekiln Lake - Cedar River Road.
- Beaver activity has contributed to wet and muddy trail conditions on the following trail sections:
- North of the Carry lean-to in West Canada Lake Wilderness
- South Pond to West Lake and West Lake to Mud Lake in West Canada Lake Wilderness
- The ford over the West Stony Creek in Shaker Mountain Wild Forest may be difficult to cross after periods of significant rain fall.
West Canada Lakes Wilderness
- The West Canada Lakes Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Horn Lake Trail - The Indian River Ford may be difficult to cross during periods of high water. Wet trail conditions are present where the trail crosses the edge of a beaver vly 2.4 miles in from the wilderness boundary at Indian Lake. Fallen trees and encroaching vegetation may impede travel on the interior trail segments closer to Horn Lake.
- French Louie Trail - This trail holds water. Hikers should be prepared to encounter segments of flooded and muddy trail conditions after periods of significant rain.
- Cedar Lakes Trail - The ford over the Stony Creek may be difficult to cross during periods of high water and in Spring during snow melt.
- Northville Placid Trail - Beaver activity has contributed to wet and muddy trail conditions on the section just north of the Carry lean-to
- The Sucker Brook Trail which connects the Northville-Placid Trail and the DEC Lewey Lake Campground is unmaintained beyond the height of ground between Lewey Mountain and Cellar Mountain, about 4.4 miles west of the campground. (2021)
- Beyond the height of ground blowdown, wet stretches of trail, and beaver activity make the trail difficult to follow.
- Access to Colvin Brook Lean-to and the Northville Placid Trail may be gained from the Moose River Plains trailhead off Limekiln Lake - Cedar River Road.
Sargent Ponds Wild Forest
- The Sargent Ponds Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
Other areas in West Central Adirondacks:
East Central
Camp Santanoni Historic Area
- The Camp Santanoni Historic Area webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Newcomb Lake Road to Great Camp Santanoni is variable with snow and muddy conditions. Be aware of potential washouts due to spring runoff. Be prepared to adapt or have a backup plan. (3/19/24)
Essex Chain Lakes Complex (Pine Lake Primitive Area)
- The Essex Chain Lakes Complex webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The Camp Six Road is now closed due to winter conditions (12/23).
- The Chain Lakes Road North and Cornell to Deer Pond roads are now closed due to winter conditions. (12/23)
- The Chain of Lakes Road South, T/Indian Lake is closed due to winter conditions (12/23)
- Seasonal gates on Chain Lakes Rd. have been closed for the season. (12/23)
- Chain Lakes Road South (which provides access to Pine Lake Primitive Area) is not plowed beyond the raft put-in on the Indian River.
- Pine Lake Primitive Area: Currently all gates are closed and the town has the Chain Of Lakes Road South closed at the raft put-in on the Indian River.
- Blowdown remains on some trails. The Chain Lakes Road North to Sixth Lake horse trail has significant blowdown. (05/12)
Hoffman Notch Wilderness
- The Hoffman Notch Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The Bridge over the North Branch of Trout Brook on the Big Pond Trail near its intersection the Notch Trail is washed off its abutments and will require crossing the stream itself. (2021)
- Blowdown may be encountered on these trails.
Jessup River Wild Forest
- The Jessup River Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Perkins Clearing Road, Military Road, and Jessup River Road are closed to passenger vehicles as of 12/3/2023. Pillsbury Mountain trailhead will not be accessible by motor vehicles.
- The bridge at the beginning of Crotched Pond Rd (located on Forest Preserve) which leads to the Crotched Pond Conservation Easement has been repaired. The interior parking area is open. Non-motorized recreation on the Crotched Pond tract is allowed outside of the 1-acre camp envelopes. Due to winter conditions, this gate will be closed starting 12/3/23.
Perkins Clearing/Speculator Tree Farm Conservation Easement Tracts
- The Perkins Clearing/Speculator Tree Farm Conservation Easement Tracts webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit. All roads are closed as of 12/2023.
Siamese Ponds Wilderness
- The Siamese Pond Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The trailhead at Kings Flow is currently closed at the discretion of the private landowner. The public no longer has access to the Chimney Mountain Trail, Puffer Pond Trail and Kings Flow East Trail from this location. This is private land. There is no easement for public access. Hikers can use the DECinfo Locator online map to explore alternative trails (leaves DEC's website) (9/6)
- The 35ft bridge over the Botheration Pond outlet on the Botheration Pond Loop Trail has been replaced with a brand new bridge. (08/11)
- The Chimney Mountain Eagle Cave gate will be open from May 16th to Sept 14th. At all other times of the year the gate will be closed to protect the bat population. (2021)
Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest
- The Vanderwhacker Mountain Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit, and its recreational opportunities and a map of the unit.
- Gulf Brook Road is gated to motor vehicles for the season but is open to snowshoers and skiers. The lower parking lot may not be plowed during the winter.
- A temporary bridge was installed over the LaBier Flow Dam on Gulf Brook Road in the Boreas Ponds Tract, restoring access to the Four Corners Parking Area at the terminus of Gulf Brook Road for pedestrians and motorists. (10/20)
- Moose Pond Club Road is temporarily closed for repairs. No parking is allowed by the gate, as administrative access for repairs will need to remain open. Visitors can park across the Boreas River Bridge on old Rte 28N and access the road on foot from there. (04/2021)
- The Boreas River crossing on the Cheney Pond-Irishtown Trail is not bridged. During low water conditions, crossing by rock hopping may be possible. (2016)
Other areas in East Central Adirondacks:
Eastern
Hammond Pond Wild Forest
- The Hammond Pond Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Nothing to report.
Lake George Wild Forest
- The Lake George Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The first bridge on the Shelving Rock Brook Trail (closest to the road) is unsafe for equestrian use. Equestrian users should ford the stream at this location. (11/17)
- The Longway Trail in Shelving Rock is impassable due to extensive blowdown. (11/17)
- Due to washouts in Lily Pond Road, only four-wheel drive and other high clearance vehicles should be used. (5/2021)
- Dacy Clearing Road gate is closed for mud season. It will reopen when conditions allow. (3/14/24)
- Jabe Pond Road is gated for mud season. (3/14/24)
Pharaoh Lake Wilderness
- The Pharaoh Lake Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
Split Rock Mountain Wild Forest
- The Split Rock Mountain Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
Southwestern
Black River Wild Forest (Flatrock Mountain, John Brown & North Lake Conservation Easement Tracts)
- The Black River Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Loop Road, accessing the Black River Wild Forest and North Lake Conservation Easement, is now closed for the winter season. (12/21/23)
- The bridge across Little Woodhull Creek on the Stone Dam Trail is out. (1/9/24)
- Blowdown can be expected on hiking trails within the forest due to the spring storm of April 19, 2022. Trails will be cleared as manpower allows. (05/05)
- The Little Salmon Outlet Bridge on the South Lake-Herkimer Landing Road has been replaced (11/2021)
- The bridge across the inlet to Bear Lake on the Bear Lake Trail is currently out, all users should be prepared to ford the stream or cross elsewhere. (2019)
- The bridge across the inlet to Little Woodhull Lake on Little Woodhull Lake Trail is out. The stream may not be passable in times of high water. (2016)
- Nick's Lake Outlet Trail to Remsen Falls may be rough and grown in. (2016)
- Watch for trains when crossing the rails to the Nelson Lake Access Hand Launch off State Route 28 on the banks of the Middle Branch Moose River. There is an active railroad present in the summer. Camping is prohibited in and around the hand launch site during June, July and August. (2016)
- Gull Lake Road (the jeep road) is impassable to motor vehicles at this time because it is very rutty and rocky. ATVs use is prohibited. (2016)
- Six of the ten water access sites on the east shore of North Lake are rarely used. Vegetation has begun to grow in on the six sites making them harder to find. (2016)
- Haskell/West Creek Road is a rough road, and 4-wheel drive trucks, SUVs and other high clearance vehicles are recommended. (2016)
- Travel beyond Seabury Brook is challenging as road conditions are poor.
- The road is closed beyond the Honnendaga Outlet Bridge because the bridge is in disrepair. Landowners of the private lands beyond may choose to use the bridge to access their lands.
- Herkimer Landing Road is not open to public motor vehicles, however there are private rights to use motor vehicles on the road. (2016)
- Flansburg/Black Creek Road is open to public motor vehicle use. However, travel beyond Mill Creek Lake will be limited by poor road conditions and snowmobile bridges not designed to support vehicles. (2016)
Fulton Chain Wild Forest
- The Fulton Chain Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The Third Lake Creek Trail, also known as the Lake Crossover Road, will have log truck activity on it through the winter of 2021/2022. This trail is the legal right of way access for a private inholder who is having timber management performed on their property. (12/2021)
- Obey "No Parking" signs on Rondaxe Road in the vicinity of the Rondaxe (aka Bald) Mountain Trailhead.
Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness
- The Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The bog bridging across the outlet of Middle Settlement Lake (on the Middle Settlement Lake Trail, west of the Lean-to) is in disrepair. All users should either exercise caution when passing through or cross at an alternate location. (07/21)
- Lost Lake Trail has been flooded by beaver activity a half mile east of Lost Lake. (7/2021)
- Moose River Mountain Trail has heavy blow down and is difficult to follow at times. (2016)
Independence River Wild Forest (Stillwater Reservoir, Big Moose & Three Lakes Conservation Easement Tracts)
- The Independence River Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- All mud season gates will be shut March 8th. DEC will reopen the roads once they are dry enough to safely handle motor vehicle traffic and necessary maintenance is completed. (3/6/24)
- The Eatonville Trail will be closed between Eatonville Road and Catspaw Lake Road on October 12 while work continues on power lines in the area. Van Arnam Road can be used as an alternative connection through this area.
- The Erie Canal Trail Bridge over Otter Creek has been damaged and is closed indefinitely. Horses may ford Otter Creek at the old bridge site. Snowmobiles can cross Otter Creek at the Eatonville Falls Bridge (2018).
Pigeon Lake Wilderness
- The Pigeon Lake Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- West Mountain and Shallow Lake trails are impassable at Beaver Brook due to beaver activity. Maintenance is scheduled for this summer. (06/02)
- The bridge across Constable Creek on the Constable Pond-West Mountain Trail has been removed due to its poor, deteriorating condition. All users should be prepared to ford the creek until a replacement bridge can be installed (06/2021).
- The bridge crossing over the Oswego Pond Outlet on the Twitchell Lake Trail has washed out. An old beaver den can be used to cross the outlet (2016).
- Cascade Lake Trail is wet and very muddy on the north-west section of the trail around Cascade Lake. Be alert of trail reroutes (2016).
Southern
Daniels Road State Forest
- Contractors have repaired the mile stretch of road and parking area.
- The access road was recently repaired but may not be plowed during winter. Users should travel this route carefully and at low speed.
Corinth Edinburg Conservation Easement
- Spruce Mountain Fire Tower trail is the only recreation currently available on this tract. Public truck and ATV use is not permitted anywhere on this easement land. Expect enforcement. (4/6)
- The Spruce Mountain Fire Tower is currently closed until a safety assessment can be performed on the structure. The Fire Tower on Hadley Mountain is a nearby alternative. (9/28/2023)
Dennie Road Conservation Easement
- The ski and snowshoe trails will be open on 12/3/23. If there is snow, please use skis or snowshoes. The trails are groomed periodically throughout the winter.
Ferris Lake Wild Forest
- The Ferris Lake Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- Powley Road which provides access to Ferris Lake Wild Forest is seasonally closed to motor vehicles. The road will be open for snowmobile season when there is adequate snow pack.
- The Mud Pond trail gate off Billy Hamlin Road is closed.
- Billy Hamlin Trail is eroded rough and rocky and very wet in places. (2020)
Lake Desolation Conservation Easement:
- The road to Archer Vly is closed to motor vehicles for the season. All non-motorized uses are still permitted. (11/30/2023)
Northville-Placid Trail
- Hikers using the portion of the trail through the Shaker Mountain Wild Forest may have trouble crossing West Stony Creek during high waters following rains. (2021)
- West River Road which provides access to the Whitehouse Trailhead of the Northville Placid Trail is seasonally closed to motor vehicles for the winter season.
Shaker Mountain Wild Forest
- The Shaker Mountain Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- The South Trail up Kane Mountain off Schoolhouse Road is closed. The trail crosses private lands and the landowner revoked permission for the public to cross. Hikers must use the formal Kane Mountain Trailhead off Green Lake Road. (2021)
- Hikers using the Northville-Placid Trail may have trouble crossing West Stony Creek during high waters following rains. (2021)
Silver Lake Wilderness
- The Silver Lake Wilderness webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities, and a map of the unit.
- West River Road, which provides access to the Whitehouse trailhead of the Northville Placid Trail, is closed to motor vehicles for the winter season. (11/30)
- Working with our partners at the Adirondack Mtn Club, a volunteer trail crew recently helped close and relocate two primitive tent sites from the south shore of Woods Lake to the north shore. The objective of the project was to spread out use and improve camping opportunities for NPT thru-hikers. This project was part of a larger trail work effort that ADK Mtn Club organized on June 4, National Trails Day. (06/23)
Rockwood State Forest
- The road north of Cemetery Road leading to the parking and camping area on the State Forest is very rough due to significant washouts. Several cars have become stuck. Only high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicles should use the road. (6/2021)
Wilcox Lake Wild Forest
- The Wilcox Lake Wild Forest webpage provides information about the unit and its recreational opportunities.
- The Spruce Mountain Fire Tower is currently closed until a safety assessment can be performed on the structure. The Fire Tower on Hadley Mountain is a nearby alternative. (9/28/2023)
- The North Bend Bridge on Oregon Trail is sagging but intact. In wet times of year, hikers will have to go through some water to enter and exit the bridge. (2020)
- The bridge over Georgia Creek on Cotter Brook Trail is out. When water is high, this spot is difficult to cross (2020)
- Dayton Creek on the East Stony Creek Trail is crossable except during high water conditions. (2020)