New York DEC Requires Snowshoes or Skis in High Peaks Trail Region

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has recently issued a bulletin concerning the use of snowshoes or cross country skis in the High Peaks Region. DEC Commissioner Erin M. Crotty made the announcement in light of recent snows that have covered the Adirondack Region.

"Winter offers great opportunities for outdoor recreation, but it also creates conditions that can be troublesome, and even dangerous, to the unprepared," Commissioner Crotty said. "The snow cover in the Adirondacks ranges from 1 foot in the lower elevations to 2 to 3 feet on mountain summits."

The use of snowshoes or skis is now required on all trails in the High Peaks and strongly encouraged on all other trails in the Adirondacks. The bulletin also stated that ice crampons should be carried for use on icy mountaintops and other exposed areas.