DEC Closes Seasonal Access Roads Due to Mud Season

NY DEC Press Releases

Published March 20th, 2026

Detected March 20th, 2026

Summary

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has closed seasonal access roads and associated gates in Regions 5 and 6 due to 'mud season' conditions caused by the spring thaw. These closures are effective immediately and aim to prevent damage to roads from motor vehicle use, with reopening contingent upon drying and maintenance.

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What changed

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued an immediate closure of seasonal access roads and associated gates on Forest Preserve, State Forest, and Conservation Easement lands in DEC Regions 5 and 6. This action is a response to the spring thaw and resulting muddy conditions, commonly referred to as 'mud season,' which can cause significant damage to unpaved roads if used by motor vehicles. The closures are intended to protect road infrastructure and expedite their reopening once conditions permit.

Regulated entities and the public are advised that motor vehicle use is prohibited on these roads until they are sufficiently dry and have undergone necessary maintenance. The DEC recommends checking their Backcountry Information webpages for updates on road openings and advises recreationists to reconsider backcountry excursions due to unstable conditions, including dangerous water crossings and volatile weather. The closures affect specific counties within Regions 5 and 6, and a broader Recreational Use Advisory for backcountry regions remains in effect.

What to do next

Monitor DEC Backcountry Information webpages for updates on road openings.
Reconsider backcountry excursions until conditions stabilize.

Source document (simplified)

March 20, 2026

DEC Closes Seasonal Access Roads and Associated Gates Due to 'Mud Season'

Closures are Effective Immediately due to Spring Thaw in DEC Region 5 and Region 6

Recreational Use Advisory for Backcountry Regions Remains in Effect

Two upstate New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regions are closing snowmobile trails and mud gates to seasonal access roads on Forest Preserve, State Forest, and Conservation Easement lands due to spring thaw and muddy conditions. All gate closures are expected by Friday, March 20.

Motor vehicle use during the spring mud season damages roads, resulting in road opening delays. DEC will reopen the roads once they are dry enough to safely handle motor vehicle traffic and necessary maintenance is completed. Please visit DEC’s Backcountry Information for the Adirondack Park webpage for updates on road openings or for other areas contact local DEC Office.

Affected counties:

DEC Region 5: Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties

DEC Region 6: Herkimer, Jefferson, Oneida, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties

DEC reminds outdoor enthusiasts that a Recreational Use Advisory for Backcountry Regions remains in effect. DEC is committed to providing updates to backcountry conditions but urge recreationists to reconsider backcountry excursions while conditions remain unstable. Each year, experienced backcountry hikers unnecessarily risk their lives attempting to cross dangerous water crossings in order to avoid a longer trip in the backcountry. DEC advises all recreationists to know your route and multiple alternatives, be prepared to wait for water levels to lower, and plan on longer-than-anticipated detours.

“Mud Season” presents unique challenges for recreation in early spring. Weather is often volatile: rain, sleet, freezing rain, snow, and even thunderstorms can occur, sometimes on the same day. Trails are muddy, and high, fast-moving waters make stream crossings on trails dangerous. For tips on how to have a safe and enjoyable experience, visit DEC’s Spring Recreation webpage.

For information about alternative recreation areas, visit DEC’s Find Places to Go webpage.

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