The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Barkeater Trails Alliance (BETA) are warning mountain bikers to avoid trails and closed seasonal access roads in the Adirondacks until they have dried and hardened.

Wet and muddy trails are easily rutted and damaged through use, the release said.

"Mountain biking is a popular activity in the Adirondacks," said DEC Regional Director Bob Stegemann. "We are asking mountain bikers to stay off the trails for a little longer, so they don't damage trails, adjacent vegetation, and nearby waters. Damaged trails are less enjoyable to use."

"Mud season in the Adirondacks is a very sensitive time for mountain bike trails," said Josh Wilson, Executive Director of Barkeater Trails Alliance (BETA). "Some trails dry-out relatively quickly in the spring or after periods of rain, while others remain muddy for weeks on end regardless of weather. Riding on wet and muddy trails can cause lasting damage very quickly. If you are leaving ruts in the trail surface, the soil is definitely too wet to be riding. It's time to call it a day and wait for better conditions. Ride dirt, not mud, and help us keep the trails in great shape for you and others to enjoy."

Conditions reports for mountain bike trails in the Wilmington Wild Forest, Saranac Lakes Wild Forest, and other networks on private and municipal land can be found on BETA's website. BETA also utilizes Trail Forks, a website and smart phone app with trail conditions, maps, recommended rides, and other trail information. Mountain bikers are encouraged to check trail conditions reports before planning a ride.

Trailside vegetation and trail surfaces are especially vulnerable to degradation and erosion during this time of year, DEC said. Biking on muddy trails damages tree roots, erodes slopes, and widens trails, making them difficult for riding. DEC asks bikers to help protect the trails, natural resources, and surrounding habitats by checking trail conditions and advisories and avoiding all wet, muddy trails.

Bikes should also not be taken on seasonal access roads that are closed for mud season. These are also best left to dry and harden before being used.