bugs or no bugs

“My friend and I are thinking about doing a 5-7 day trip in the Adirondaks in the middle of May. My dad suggested the White Mountains or The Smokies. What are the bugs like in all three places in the middle of May. Will it be too icy to traverse on the summits in the White Mountains without crampons or ice axes and what would the weather be like.”

“I can't speak for the Whites or Smokies, but mid May is the start of the height of black fly season in the Adirondacks. It is possible to run into patches of snow and ice in shaded areas and at higher elevations. An ice axe probably won't be necessary, but it is possible that crampons could be useful. I would check for trail conditions a week or so before your trip to see if crampons will be required.”