LOCALadk Magazine

Spring 2016 LOCALadk Magazine 3 LOCALadk The arrival of spring in the Adirondacks is eagerly anticipated. People yearn for the moment they can get into the backcountry to hike, bike, or paddle. However, spring can be fickle, especial- ly in the Adirondacks. Ice, snow, and mud along with warm sun and blustery cold can be experienced - on the same day - in early spring. One key to enjoying the capricious weather is to know about and prepare for both trail and weather conditions. Proper gear allows for proper use of the trail. When hiking to higher elevations, hikers should carry snowshoes and traction devices, even if there is little or no snow at the trail- head. Hikers can quickly find themselves exhausted from post holing through deep snow. Snowshoes are a welcome remedy to a potentially dangerous situation. Snowmelt that freezes overnight can cause icy trails. Crampons, spikes, or other traction devices will help prevent slips and falls. Drainages and brooks that are easily crossed in the morning may fill with meltwater in the afternoon, and may not be crossable. Planning for alternate routes or hiking trails that have high water crossings is recommended. Mud is synonymous with spring, and muddy, water-logged trails easily erode and widen, which destroys trailside vegetation. Proper footwear and gaiters let hikers walk through muddy, wet trails, not around them. Each spring, DEC issues a "muddy trail advisory" asking hikers to avoid trails above 3,000 feet until trails dry. Steep trails on thin soils are slippery and easily erode when muddy. Trails in lower elevations are typically flatter and have deeper soils. Exploring lower trails in the spring preserves sensitive alpine vegetation, prevents erosion, and helps to ensure the safety of hikers. And, spring flowers - trout lily, clintonia, and foam flower, to name a few - bloom earlier at lower contours! Seasonal access roads are closed during mud season. Extra time should be allowed to cover the added distance between the parked car and the trailhead. Bikers are asked to avoid wet and muddy trails. Ruts from bicy- cles can make trails more challenging and harder to ride when they dry. Paddlers also need to show patience. Paddling can be dangerous in the spring. Water levels are high and water temperatures are cold. Between November 1 and May 1, paddlers are required by New York State law to wear a personal flotation device, or PFD. A PFD is recommended any time of year, but in spring it is crucial. Kay- aks and canoes can capsize more easily in high, swift waters. Cold water can quickly cause hypothermia and resultant drowning. In either situation, a PFD can be a lifesaver! Springtime outdoor recreation in the Adirondacks is much safer and more enjoyable when a variety of weather is expected. DEC provides updates through its Adirondack Trail Information web pages www.dec.ny.gov/outdoors. Have a safe and enjoyable time recreating in the Adirondack backcountry! The Spring into Backcountry A message from the Department of Environmental Conservation

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