The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on July 11 issued a high-water advisory following recent heavy rains and is urging hikers to postpone hikes near waterways and on high-elevation trails. Hikers can recreate safely and reduce negative impacts on trails to help protect natural resources throughout the Adirondack Park during this time. 

Regional waterbodies rose considerably after recent rains from Hurricane Beryl. Streams and rivers are running high and fast with strong currents. Hikers should avoid trails that include stream crossings and use all available high-water routes. Do not attempt to cross swift-moving streams and rivers. Turn back and return another day. 

Current trail conditions across the Adirondack Park are extremely wet and can pose risks to hikers such as falling due to unstable trail tread and slippery rocks, as well as hypothermia. Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid high-elevation trails because sliding boots destroy trail tread, damage surrounding vegetation, and cause washouts by eroding thin soils.  

Hikers are encouraged 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. Avoid getting caught on the wrong side of a stream and turn back at any signs of changing weather conditions.