It's probably only the die-hards who are still checking this page, so you know what "spring conditions" mean - hard and fast when it's cold, brooks without bridges problematic to cross, and softening ice on lakes. That said, here are a few specifics after a week that included rain on Monday and Tuesday, temps in the 50s on Thursday with a bit warmer temps Friday (and maybe some rain) and Saturday. Cooler again as we go into next week, but still above freezing most of each day.
Specifically, the only section of the Jackrabbit Trail that is sure to still be skiable is the section from Whiteface Inn Lane to the top of the pass. Approaches to the High Peaks are definitely deteriorating, but still have cover. Beyond Marcy Dam, it's still looks a lot like winter with skis or snowshoes still very much required. 4-1/2' of snow at Lake Colden with 5-6' feet (and maybe more in some places) still at 4,000 feet. Except for Avalanche Lake and Lake Colden, no lake ice can be considered safe; and still there is the caveat to stay away from inlets and outlets. The Opalescent now prevents crossing Flowed Lands to access Lake Colden from the south.
The next update next week should be able to recommend a few hikes that have sufficiently thawed to be possible options for early season hiking.
Specifically, the only section of the Jackrabbit Trail that is sure to still be skiable is the section from Whiteface Inn Lane to the top of the pass. Approaches to the High Peaks are definitely deteriorating, but still have cover. Beyond Marcy Dam, it's still looks a lot like winter with skis or snowshoes still very much required. 4-1/2' of snow at Lake Colden with 5-6' feet (and maybe more in some places) still at 4,000 feet. Except for Avalanche Lake and Lake Colden, no lake ice can be considered safe; and still there is the caveat to stay away from inlets and outlets. The Opalescent now prevents crossing Flowed Lands to access Lake Colden from the south.
The next update next week should be able to recommend a few hikes that have sufficiently thawed to be possible options for early season hiking.
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