JO

““LZ

Where does one get permits to backpack here?
Do you recommend going solo?
Are dogs allowed in the Park?

Thanks”
JO
12:04:46 PM
6/10/05
ignore this user


The only area that requires a permit in the Adirondack Park is the eastern zone of the High Peaks Wilderness. These permits are for overnight stays only and are picked up at most (all?) of the trailheads that lead to that area. The permits are free and are put in place so the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) can keep track of how many people are camping in this high use area.

Dogs are allowed on all state land, but should be on a leash when in areas that have a high concentration of people or when hiking in the Alpine Vegetation Zones, which are marked with large white signs. http://community.webshots.com/photo/173405047/173406980EzJYSX
Dogs are not permitted on the Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR), which is privately owned, but has many trails that are open to the public.

As far as going solo, unless familiar with the routes, I would not go solo on the unmarked routes. Dix Mountain is the only peak part of the Dix Range that has a maintained and marked trail. The other 4 have herd paths that lead to the summits; note that these are not true bushwhacks.

Within the Adirondack High Peak region, there are three major wilderness areas, the High Peaks Wilderness, which is split into Eastern and Western areas, the Dix Mountain Wilderness, and the Giant Mountain Wilderness. Camping above 4000’ in these areas is not permitted as well as camping above 3500’ in an area not designated as a campsite. You must camp at least 150’ away from any trail or water source unless designated as a campsite. The eastern portion of the High Peaks Wilderness has additional rules, which prohibit campfires and staring in July require the use of a bear-proof canister for food.

If you’re planning on hiking in the High Peaks region, I highly recommend the National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map #724 (http://www.ngmapstore.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=317&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=54&iSubCat=144&iProductID=317 ), which is printed on waterproof paper and shows all public and private lands, marked trails and mileage, and general rules and regulations in the area. In addition to that it is also a good idea to get a copy of the Adirondack Trail Guide to the High Peaks Region published by the Adirondack Mountain Club (http://www.adk.org/new_store/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=GHP ).

If you have any addition questions feel free to send me an email to the address on my profile. If I don’t have an answer for you, I should be able to direct you to a source that will.”

“Thanks LZ”

“good to see you JO”