This past year, nature has been one of our few sanctuaries. Nothing can revive your spirits like breathing in fresh air. At GO-Cottage, we are fortunate to be amidst the beauty of the Adirondacks. It’s so important to protect our precious environment and lessen the workload of our diligent rangers and stewards by leaving no trace.
Since our Adirondack spring has been peppered with snowfall, much of the winter trail etiquette still applies.
Snowy conditions put animals in especially vulnerable situations. Please observe them from a distance rather than approaching them.
To protect burgeoning plant life, stay on deep snow cover. This time of year can also turn areas of trail muddy, so be sure to stick to snow cover or the middle of existing trails. Doing so prevents damage to plants and the creation of new trails.
For the safety of your fellow adventurers, only cross designated ski areas while wearing snowshoes or skis. Travelling with unsuitable footwear (“postholing”) leads to unsafe trail conditions. Also be sure to put on a face covering if you cross paths with anyone during your hike.
As always, please clean up after yourself! This is a pillar of leaving no trace. Even the skins of fruits and veg can take a long time to decompose. The same goes for pet waste, and besides: no one wants to risk stepping in that!
For more information, check out the Adirondack Council, which is dedicated to preserving our High Peaks wilderness. And tune in to our blog in the coming weeks for more about leaving no trace. Last but not least, Happy Earth Day this Thursday, April 22nd!
