The recent snows have provided great conditions for winter outdoor recreation in the Adirondack backcountry, but “winter can also present troublesome – even perilous – conditions to the unprepared,” said Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Joe Martens.

Backcountry visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for snow, ice and cold to ensure a safe and enjoyable winter experience, Martens said in a press release.

Skis and snowshoes are recommended for traversing snowy backcountry terrain, along with the skills to use them properly.

In fact, visitors to the Eastern High Peaks are required to use snowshoes or cross-country skis for their safety and the safety of other backcountry users. DEC strongly recommends that visitors to other parts of the Adirondacks do the same.

Snow depths range from 6 to 20 inches or more, DEC said. The deepest snows are in the eastern Adirondacks with the thinner depths in the western portion. Snow depths are also deeper in the higher elevations like the High Peaks and other mountains over 3,000 feet.

Seasonal access roads are closed. Motor vehicles should not be driving on seasonal access roads that serve as snowmobile trails in the winter such as the Moose River Plains Road.

Most gates and designated snowmobile trails are or will be open by the weekend. Snowmobilers should check on local trail conditions before heading out. Skiers and snowshoers using designated snowmobile trails should keep to the side to allow safe passage of snowmobiles. Snowmobiles should slow down when passing skiers and snowshoers.

Snowshoes or skis ease travel on snow and prevent “post holing”, which can ruin trails and cause sudden falls resulting in injuries. Ice crampons should be carried for use on icy mountaintops and other exposed areas.

In addition, DEC says backcountry visitors should follow these safety guidelines:

• Dress properly with layers of wool and fleece, not cotton, clothing, such as a wool or fleece hat, gloves or mittens, wind and rain resistant outer wear, and winter boots.

• Carry a day pack with an ice axe, plenty of food and water, extra clothing, map and compass, first-aid kit, flashlight/headlamp, sunglasses, sun-block protection, ensolite pads, stove and extra fuel, and bivy sack or space blankets.

• Carry plenty of food and water. Eat, drink and rest often. Being tired, hungry or dehydrated makes you more susceptible to hypothermia.

• Check weather before entering the woods. If the weather is poor, postpone your trip. Be aware of weather conditions at all times. If the weather worsens, head out of the woods.

• Know the terrain and your physical capabilities. It takes more time and energy to travel through snow.

• Never travel alone and always inform someone of your intended route and return time.

• Traveling through snow takes more energy and time than hiking the same distance, especially in freshly fallen snow. Plan trips accordingly.

Ice conditions at this time are “iffy,” since ice has only recently formed on most waters especially on large water bodies. Alternating periods of freezing and thawing have occurred over the past month weakening any ice that is present. Always check ice thickness before traveling across it. Avoid ice over running water, near inlets and outlets and near boathouses and docks, especially those with "bubblers" or other ice prevention devices. Ice that holds snow will not hold the weight of a snowmobile at this time and may not hold the weight of a person, DEC says.

Skiers and snowshoers are reminded that the Avalanche Pass Slide in the Eastern High

Peaks is closed to public recreation of any type during the winter.

Call the DEC Forest Ranger Emergency Dispatch at 518-891-0235 to report lost or injured people or other backcountry emergencies.

The DEC Adirondack Trail Information web page (www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7865.html) provides current trail condition information and links to current weather, snow cover and other important information to help ensure a safe and enjoyable Adirondack backcountry winter experience.