Ashokan Rail Trail

The weekend is upon us, and perhaps a long one for some. Weather forecasts show us with COLD temps, and a couple of inches of new snow Saturday night into Sunday - atop a good base of snow. As always, good clothing and footgear make the difference. Long underwear probably wouldn't be regretted. And treads on your boots, micro-spikes, and poles could be useful. Also, remember to keep your four-legged friends on leash and take their business home with you. Enjoy.

This lovely photo was taken yesterday when the light was strong. Signs of spring are revealing -- in the light, the sounds of the birds chattering, longer days, and sometimes warming temps. Grab it when you can. As for trail conditions, there is a lot of snow, and can even be slippery underfoot if not wearing micro-spikes or treaded boots. We are supposed to get some more snow, but if warming/freezing cycles happen -- you'll need to have gear for ice. Reminder that we don't groom the trail. And with snow we rely on everyone's cooperation -- with cross country ski trails meant to be on the extreme sides of the trail (in each direction) and all others should be staying in the middle. Have fun.

The culmination of the snowstorm was gorgeousness on the trail, and for now, no ice. The trail is not groomed. Only we humans pack it down. Best to let the cross country skiers make tracks on each edge, leaving the middle for snowshoes, walkers and dogs. Enjoy.

Beautiful snow today. We are expecting a significant accumulation, and knowing that locals will be itching to get out there, let's set up our trail to accommodate all users. So, for cross country skiers -- please make your tracks in the far right of the trail in either direction. All other users, please keep down the middle -- and given the trail's 12' width, you should be able to social distance when passing others. Please use single-file as needed. Thanks. And dog owne...rs, please pick up your dog's business and bring it home with you. Enjoy winter's beauty.

Updating this message on 1/29. Good Morning! Reminder that the ART is not plowed in winter. The hi-traffic areas immediately adjacent to all 3 major trailheads have compacted and may be very icy as the temps have plummeted down. Please Exercise Caution entering the trail. Wear appropriate footwear, including yaktraks, micro-spikes or similar. The snow has left a coating atop ice. Expect compacted snow from foot traffic and icy, bumpy trail conditions, especially in the shady sections, cuts and hi-traffic areas. Biking: Fat bikes, xc-width tires (2.25 and up) needed, studded tires even better, but reports from experienced riders note that there were "white knuckle" conditions. Be safe out there and enjoy!