Enjoy the 2024 Solar Eclipse Responsibly
Adirondack organizations collaborate to offer guidance on enjoying a safe and sustainable eclipse.
The Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST), Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK), and Adirondack Council are urging caution for those considering an Adirondack Park backcountry adventure to view the total solar eclipse this April.
On April 8, 2024, much of the Adirondack Park will be in the path of totality for a once-in-a-lifetime full solar eclipse. While the mountains, lakes, and hiking trails of the Adirondacks may provide a beautiful backdrop to this magnificent celestial event, conditions in the Adirondack backcountry at that time of year can be perilous. No joke, people. Pay attention.
Despite appearances and an influx of visitors, Winter may still be in full effect at higher elevations of the Adirondacks.
Given the combined natural beauty of the Adirondacks and the eclipse, people may consider hiking into the Adirondack wilderness to view this once-in-a-lifetime event. However, full winter conditions will likely be present on the trails and mountains at that time, posing dangers to people and the environment if hikers are not prepared.
Winter turns to Spring in the Adirondacks.
Travelers unfamiliar with the Adirondacks may expect warm spring conditions, but mountain summits and higher elevations continue to be snow- and ice-covered long into the Spring compared to lower elevations. Lakes, ponds, and waterways pose additional dangers during the early Spring months.
Ice may remain on the surface of ponds, lakes, and streams, making them appear solid and safe; however, longer, warmer days and increased flowing water during the Spring can make ice much thinner and unstable.
“The solar eclipse will likely drive visitation to the Adirondacks during a time of year that is typically much less frequented by visitors,” said Savannah Doviak, ROOST media coordinator. “Since visitors may not be familiar with the area’s ever-changing weather and early Spring conditions, our most important role is to share important information about being safe and well-prepared, and about the planned events throughout the region.”
Love Your ADK, comprised of ROOST, Adirondack Council, and Adirondack Mountain Club members, is working to share as much information as possible about early Spring conditions, which can lead to disastrous situations and will hopefully avoid the need for backcountry rescue.
Celebrate the eclipse in Adirondack towns and villages.
Adirondack organizations are advising residents and visitors who plan to travel to the Adirondacks for the upcoming eclipse to avoid mountain trails and bodies of water. There are plenty of other places in the region to experience the eclipse safely without having to venture into the backcountry.
Local organizations, restaurants, hotels, and attractions are hosting viewing parties and events, which visitors and residents are encouraged to attend.
ROOST launched a website to help visitors and residents plan their solar eclipse experience. The site provides information about the science of an eclipse, safety measures, the best places to watch, viewing celebrations and events throughout the region, and essential viewing tips.
ADK Taste also offers information and resources to help people make the most of the eclipse in the Adirondacks.
Stay up-to-date on current weather conditions in the Adirondacks.
However, as it's difficult to predict the weather months in advance, these groups advise that people unfamiliar with Winter hiking in the Adirondacks should avoid higher elevations and bodies of water during the eclipse. For information about viewing the eclipse safely, please visit the "What to Know" section on the EclipseADK website.
“The allure of witnessing the eclipse should not overshadow the necessity of being well-equipped and knowledgeable about the challenges posed by the Adirondack backcountry in early April. We encourage anyone who is considering such a trip to consult with a local visitor center – like Cascade Welcome Center – before committing to their plan.”
Michael Barrett, executive director of the Adirondack Mountain Club, stresses that hiking the Adirondack Mountains during the early Spring is only recommended for the most experienced hikers, who should have proper equipment such as skis or snowshoes, traction devices, extra food and water, emergency supplies, and extra winter clothing to be safe.
“Our primary concern is the safety of anyone considering a hike to view the eclipse,” he said. “Lingering Winter conditions at higher elevations coupled with the unpredictability of early Spring weather demand a high level of preparedness and caution.”
Love Your ADK encourages experienced hikers to follow ‘leave no trace’ guidelines if they are hiking for the eclipse. This includes being prepared by properly researching the planned trip route, traveling and camping on durable surfaces, properly disposing of waste, including packing out what you pack in and leaving what you find, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of others.
Enjoy the 2024 Eclipse in the Adirondacks safely and responsibly.
“The Adirondack Park will be one of the best locations in the Northeast to enjoy this rare solar eclipse, but we want people to enjoy it safely and responsibly,” said Raul J. Aguirre, executive director of the Adirondack Council. “The weather in April is known to be unpredictable, especially in the High Peaks region. Between snow and mud, high water and freezing temperatures, trail conditions in the mountains can be dangerous.
“The ecological health of our highly sensitive summit ecosystems depends on people voluntarily abstaining from hiking when thin soils and alpine plants are exposed. Given the potential ecological damage and personal safety issues involved, we encourage everyone to use the utmost care in planning for this once-in-a-lifetime event.”
According to ROOST Marketing Director Michelle Clement, one of the most exciting aspects of the celestial event is the unique experience it will offer eclipse enthusiasts and the casual observer. “One really important aspect of a total solar eclipse is the shared experience that it offers,” she said. “It is something that we will all experience together – residents, visitors, astronomers, business owners, students, and those simply traveling to the region just to experience it. It’s one of those lifetime events where people will remember where they were and who they were with; we want to ensure that it is a positive, safe and memorable experience for everyone who will be in our region.”
“As we approach April 8, we will have a much better idea about weather, temperatures and anticipated visitation,” Doviak commented. “We simply want everyone to be safe and enjoy the experience.”
While these organizations may not want to say it, we will: Don’t put first responders, park rangers and other emergency personnel in harm’s way if you’re not a thoroughly experienced, skilled, and equipped back-country hiker.
For the latest information, visit the Adirondacks USA Facebook page and the EclipseADK website.
