New York officials have cancelled “First Day” hikes in the Adirondacks due to extremely cold weather.
The cancelled New Year’s celebration hikes are: Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain; Hadley Mountain; and Willie Wildlife Marsh. The first day hike to the summit of Stillwater Mountain, Herkimer County, has been rescheduled for Monday, January 15, 2018, at 10 a.m.
For more information about the Stillwater hike, visit the first day hikes web page or email information.R6@dec.ny.gov.
Due to the extreme cold weather forecasted for the New Year’s holiday weekend, hikers planning to participate in first day hikes scheduled across New York State are encouraged to contact the park or site directly to confirm details before traveling.
Hikers should be prepared for the conditions by bringing water and wearing warm layered clothing, sunglasses, proper footwear/headwear, and snowshoes if the snow depth is over a foot or so deep. Ski poles or something similar are also recommended to help with balance.
Each participant will receive a New York State Parks “First Day” string style knapsack, and sticker. In addition, there will be a drawing for an Empire State Pass. The Empire Pass allows free admission to all State Parks and DEC day use areas. Visit the DEC website for hiking information and safety tips, especially in winter weather.