Hiking Laws & Permit Information

Visitors to the High Peaks Wilderness must adhere to specific state regulations set by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). These rules are designed to protect the environment, wildlife, and hiker safety.

General High Peaks Wilderness Regulations

1. Campfires are prohibited in the Central Zone of the High Peaks Wilderness.
    

2. Group Size Limits – Maximum of 15 people for day hikes and 8 people for overnight trips.
    

3. No camping above 3,500 feet, except at designated lean-tos and campsites.
    

4. Camping Restrictions – Camp only in designated sites or, if necessary, at least 150 feet away from roads, trails, and water sources.
    

5. Bear Canisters Required – Mandatory for all overnight campers from May 1 to October 31 in both the Central and Outer Zones of the High Peaks.
    

6. Pack Out All Waste – Carry out all trash, leftover food, and gear. Littering is strictly prohibited.
    

7. Leash Laws for Dogs –
    

   • Central Zone: Dogs must be leashed at all times.
      

   • Outer Zone & Adirondack Canoe Route: Dogs must be leashed at trailheads, campsites, and above 4,000 feet.
      

   • Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR): No dogs allowed.
      

8. Prohibited Vehicles & Equipment – Bikes, drones, and ATVs are not allowed in wilderness areas.
    

9. Snowshoe & Ski Requirement – Skis or snowshoes are required when snow depths reach 12 inches off-trail.
    

10. Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR) Rules –
     

    • Parking and access require a reservation between May 1 and October 31 (hikeamr.org).
       

    • No camping, dogs, drones, or off-trail travel permitted.
       

11. Adirondack Canoe Route Permits –
     

    • Groups of 9-12 people must obtain a camping permit from the local Forest Ranger.
       

    • Campfires are permitted in designated firepits only.
       

Stay Updated on Changing Regulations

Regulations are subject to updates by the DEC, and visitors should always check for the latest trail conditions and notices before planning a trip. Information can be found on the DEC Adirondack Backcountry Information Page.

 

Leave No Trace: Protecting the Adirondacks

The Leave No Trace™ Seven Principles serve as a guideline for responsible recreation, ensuring that wilderness areas remain pristine for future generations.

1. Plan Ahead & Prepare

• Research trails in advance and know your limits.
   

• Pack proper gear, food, water, navigation tools, and first aid supplies.
   

• Check weather forecasts and adjust plans if necessary.
   

• Create a timeline and turnaround time to avoid hiking after dark.
   

• Inform family or friends of your itinerary before heading out.
   

2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging vegetation.
   

• In winter, travel on snow at least 6 inches deep to minimize impact.
   

• Avoid cutting switchbacks or creating new trails.
   

3. Dispose of Waste Properly

• Pack out all trash, food scraps, and broken gear.
   

• Use outhouses or designated toilets when available.
   

• If no facilities exist, dig a cat hole at least 6 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources to bury human waste.
   

4. Leave What You Find

• Do not disturb natural features, remove rocks, or take historical artifacts.
   

• Avoid carving or painting on trees, rocks, or shelters.
   

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Use designated fireplaces and firepits only.
   

• Collect only dead and downed wood for fires.
   

• Ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving.
   

6. Respect Wildlife

• Keep a safe distance from all wildlife.
   

• Never feed animals—human food disrupts their natural behaviors and can lead to dangerous encounters.
   

• Store food properly in bear canisters where required.
   

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Keep noise levels low to allow others to enjoy nature.
   

• Yield the right of way to uphill hikers.
   

• Allow hikers on footbridges and bog crossings to finish before stepping on.
   

• Keep pets under control and clean up after them.
   

• Park only in designated areas, avoiding entrances, exits, and emergency lanes.