White MountainsMaybe you think Memorial Day Weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, but New Hampshire’s mountains are likely to disagree with you.

Cold, wintry conditions – even ice and snow – can still be found in New Hampshire’s higher elevations. And as many hikers prepare to hit the trails over the holiday weekend, New Hampshire Fish and Game officials are warning people they might still encounter difficult conditions, according to an article on WMUR.com.

Officials say hikers could encounter unexpected weather, particularly in the northern part of the state. They are reminding people to bring extra clothing, food and water, and a map and compass. They also suggest people purchase a Hike Safe card.

The warning comes as a cold front moves into the region, threatening to bring with it wintry conditions. The Mount Washington Observatory says the front will “drop temperatures well below normal” and could bring snow and wind chills that make it feel well below zero on exposed skin.

Read more about New Hampshire officials warning hikers to be prepared.