DEC Issues Hiker Safety Advisory for High Peaks Region of Adirondacks

Trail to Avalanche Pass Remains Closed Due to Landslide

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today issued a hiker safety advisory following recent heavy rains that caused major and minor landslides across the Adirondack High Peaks region. DEC advises hikers to recreate safely and reduce negative impacts on all trails to help protect natural resources throughout the Adirondacks during this time.

Landslide activity occurred over the last week from heavy rain, creating hazardous and unstable conditions in high terrain. Avalanche Pass trail in Keene remains closed from the intersection with Lake Arnold Trail to the southern end of Avalanche Lake. DEC staff are working to assess the damage and condition of the area impacted by the mud and rockslides. Hikers should avoid the area until DEC announces that the trail has reopened. Impacted routes include the passage south to Lake Colden area from the Adirondak Loj, and loop routes over Algonquin Peak, Mount Colden, and Mount Marcy back to the Adirondak Loj through Avalanche Pass.

In addition, a slide on the southeast side of Mount Colden into Feldspar/Lake Arnold trail in Keene, Essex County, resulted in trail blockage. A short bushwhack around debris is necessary to continue on the trail. Hikers are encouraged to take extreme caution if seeking alternate routes or navigating debris.

Thunderstorms are predicted to continue throughout the remainder of the week and are expected to produce more heavy downpours and potential landslide activity. Visitors to the High Peaks are advised to check the weather for the day of, night of, and day after their trips in case of an unexpected overnight. Storms can emerge suddenly and quickly in high elevations.

Water levels rise rapidly in heavy rains and can become impassable within minutes. Visitors should avoid getting caught on the wrong side of a stream and turn back at the sign of changing weather conditions.

Hypothermia can occur even in the summer months and especially during times where very wet conditions are present. Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Stay warm and dry by packing extra layers in a waterproof bag within your pack. Pack extra socks to keep your feet dry and change them often. Carry plenty of food and water. Being tired, hungry, or dehydrated makes you more susceptible to hypothermia.

Hikers are advised to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for weekly updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information for the Adirondacks.

View the HikeSmartNY webpage for detailed information on safety and preparedness and what to do in case of an emergency in the backcountry.

Love Our New York Lands to help all New Yorkers and visitors access, enjoy, and feel welcome on state lands. While enjoying these shared spaces, be respectful of other visitors. Share trails, treat people with kindness, and leave things as you found them for others to enjoy. Follow the Hiker Responsibility Code, practice Leave No Trace^TM principles, and consider visiting trails less traveled.