Adirondack Peeks Winter 2024

er gear and how to use it (plenty of YouTube videos are available). PBW: Go for it! Prior to giving it a try, I was so resistant. I hate being cold and had never done any winter activities, and it seemed scary and hard! But I had a hiking partner who loved winter hiking, and he shared his knowledge and passion with me. Find yourself a mentor. Read about proper gear, layering clothes, safety, weather, and trail conditions and go out with someone experienced. Pick a beautiful, bluebird day and try it. The beauty is unbelievable! Being able to hike year-round is such a blessing! SC: Don’t start with high peaks. Learn your limits and be prepared to turn around at a designated time.

JE: Proper winter hiking gear is critical and don’t hesitate to upgrade or replace things that are not working for you. Remember, we are all guests in this park and treat it with care and respect. It is not that hard to be a good visitor so everyone can enjoy their outings.

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Winter gear and clothing are critical elements of safe and enjoyable winter hikes. While this article did not go into any details on those items, the Facebook groups Adiron dack 46ers, Aspiring ADK High Peak Completionists, and Adirondack Trail Conditions can also be good sources of information, as well as the weekly DEC Ranger Reports.

Hopefully, the tips and pho tos get you excited for the winter hiking season. But if you are a person that would rather enjoy the raw beauty of Adirondack winters from your car, no worries. Mud and black fly season will be here before you know it!

WINTER 2024 | 23