DEC Warns About Hazardous Hiking Conditions

Utica, NY (WIBX) - The Department of Environmental Conservation issued a warning to hikers about hazardous trail conditions due to Hurricane Irene. DEC officials say many backcountry trails in the Adirondacks and the Catskills are now closed and predicted to remain so through the Labor Day weekend. DEC Commissioner Joe Martens said the storm caused flooding, bridge and trail wash-outs, downed trees and other debris that make conditions hazardous for hiking. He says many mountain areas have also been impacted by landslides. Hikers are urged to plan accordingly and be prepared to turn back when conditions warrant.

Updated information on trail closures and trail conditions in the Eastern Adirondacks can be found at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7865.html.

A complete, updated list of closed campgrounds can be found on the DEC website at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/public/76659.html.

Official urge those planning to visit the Adirondack or Catskill regions during the Labor Day weekend to call ahead or check for road closure information at the Department of Transportation's webpage: http://www.511ny.org/ or at, http://readme.readmedia.com/DEC-Warns-Hikers-about-Hazardous-Trail-Conditions/2985883. Travelers can dial 511 for information on road and travel conditions throughout NYS.