LOCALadk Magazine

Winter 2020 LOCALadk Magazine 5 LOCALadk Beginner's Guide to Winter Recreation A message from the Department of Environmental Conservation In the Adirondacks, outdoor recreation doesn't stop when the snow starts to fall. Instead, a whole new suite of activi- ties begins—snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, winter hiking, and more awaits visitors to the Adirondacks. Whether you're discovering a new cold weather hobby this year, or are new to winter recreation entirely, this guide will help you enjoy the outdoors safely and sustainably. Before you head out for any winter activity, follow the first principle of Leave No Trace – Plan Ahead and Prepare. Proper planning and preparation will not only keep you safe, it will help you enjoy the time you spend in the outdoors. While there are some activity-specific details to figure out, much of the research you do is the same for any activity. Check the weather for the day of your trip, that night, and the night before to know what temperatures to prepare for and the conditions you can expect to encounter. Check sun- rise and sunset times and plan to make the most of daylight hours. If you're planning to hike, snowshoe, ski, or snowmobile, research the route and bring a paper map and compass on your trip. Trails can be hard to make out under fresh or deep snow, so it's critical to be familiar with trail junctions and major landmarks. Don't rely on your phone for navigation or light—always bring a headlamp. Phones die quickly in the backcountr y, especially when cold temperatures drain the batter y. Check DEC's Hike Smart NY webpage for a full list of the essential items to bring on any backcountr y adven- ture. Whether you are hiking miles up steep slopes or fishing on a frozen lake, it's important to dress in layers. Proper layering is the best way to keep comfortable in cold winter temperatures and prevent hypothermia. Start with warm, non-cotton base layers and wool socks. Wear and bring ad- ditional layers, including waterproof and windproof layers, a hat, and mittens or gloves. Add or remove layers as nec- essar y to keep warm while minimizing sweating. As sweat dries, it cools, creating ideal conditions for hypothermia. In addition to hypothermia, consider other safety risks. When snowmobiling or ice fishing, be extra careful on and around ice. Ice should be at least four inches thick before it is safe to walk on, and at least 15 inches thick before it is safe to drive on it. Thickness varies, so be careful at all times. If you're planning to winter hike or ski in the back- countr y, be aware of any avalanche risks and know what to do in the event of an avalanche. For all forms of recreation, manage risks and know what to do in case of an emergency. In addition to planning ahead and preparing, follow the other six principles of Leave No Trace to help preser ve the natural resources of the Adirondacks and the outdoor ex- perience of other users. Stick to durable surfaces like des- ignated trails, deep snow, and ice. Carr y out what you carr y in, including all gear, trash, and food scraps. Winter is a chal- lenging time for wildlife when food supplies are short and living conditions are tough. Show wildlife respect by giving them extra space, never food, which could create bad habits that make it hard for animals to sur vive on their own. Be considerate of other visitors while enjoying the out- doors. Share multi-use trails respectfully to ensure the safety of all users. If snowmobiling, slow down and watch out for snowshoers and cross-countr y skiers. Keep snow- shoe and ski tracks separate, making travel easier and safer for both user groups. Wear snowshoes when snow is deep to avoid post-holing. Deep holes created by bare boots can freeze overnight and create hazards for skiers and other us- ers who visit after you. Winter recreation is a fun way to experience the season, but always consider safety and sustainability. Follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and research your cho- sen activity to ensure a successful winter outdoor experi- ence. Snow and ice are no reason to stop recreating. By fol- lowing this guide, you can enjoy the outdoors all year round. Patrick DeTraglia St. Regis Mountain Fire Tower

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