Thu, 14 May 2026 10:21:32 -0400WeeblyMon, 30 Mar 2026 13:09:58 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/the-end-may-be-nearUPDATE 4/3/26:
      After another warm day today, Friday,  and with no forecast for any snow into next week, I guess it's time to bring these reports to an end for the season. I hope that you have found them useful in planning your ski trips. If so, don't forget that this website has a "Donation" tab.
      Otherwise, the one comment to the previous report indicates that there is still good snow that starts not far past Marcy Dam. That said, heading toward Marcy involves a potentially difficult crossing of Phelps Brook just above Marcy Dam and an apparently equally difficult crossing or Marcy Brook at Indian Falls. There is a high water route to avoid the Phelps Brook crossing, but no alternative to the Marcy Brook crossing. On some mornings these crossings won't be very difficult, but melting with the warm temperatures later in the day may make them treacherous on the afternoon return. (This warning applies in particular to any hikers planning to hike street and Nye.)
     I will thus leave it to all the die-hards to make the best of these final weeks of High Peaks skiing.

Sunday was the last day that the two remaining groomed centers, Mt. Van Hoevenberg and the Paul Smith's VIC, were open and grooming.  Their timing was good as, after some sun early Monday there is nothing but rain in the forecast through next Sunday. And some days will see temperatures in the 50s so what will be left for the coming weekend or beyond will be much less that there now is remaining on the ground. For now, the VIC, Hays Brook, and Fish Pond still have skiable cover, but no guarantees how long that will last. In the backcountry, there will still be good cover past Marcy Dam and higher up on Wright, but brook crossings will be difficult as all snow is gone from the brooks. 

​If there is any change in the forecast before the weekend, we'll let you know; but it now seems that only you die-hards will continue skiing and you know where to find what's left. ]]>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:20:06 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/spring-skiing-editionUPDATE 3/26/26
Temperatures rose into the 50s on Thursday, which was about 10 degrees warmer than originally predicted. And now it looks like mostly rain before the cold front comes through to cool things down to the 20s for Friday and Saturday. So, any predictions of snow cover below should not be assumed to be current. With the weekend cool down, the best bet is to enjoy the final weekend of grooming at the Paul Smith's VIC. Back to the 40s for highs next week, and we'll try to get a handle on backcountry conditions going forward.

INTRODUCTION
There hasn't been much recovery from the meltdown earlier this month, but there is still skiing to be had. It's definitely spring conditions so expect hard, frozen surfaces whenever the temperature is below freezing. Wednesday will warm up with some sun. Thursday will also be warm, but with a chance of rain followed by much colder temperatures Friday through Sunday. Unless the cold front on Thursday night produces more snow than the inch currently predicted, good conditions will only be at the areas that are still grooming.  The high winds last Tuesday mean that there could be new trees down, so keep that in mind on any fast downhills, and report any you find on the Jackrabbit Trail so we can be ready if it snows again. (Thanks for the report of the tree down near McKenzie Pond.)

JACKRABBIT TRAIL
Some sections are skiable, but best to wait until the temperatures have warmed up several degrees above freezing.
McKenzie Pass Section still has good cover from Whiteface Inn Lane to the top of the pass and down most of the way to McKenzie Pond. Then thin but skiable out to McKenzie Pond Road.  
Old Mountain Road Section is also skiable with care. The new start is thin, but manageable and it improves from there. No report on whether the beaver pond on the Lake Placid side can still be crossed. 
Other sections may be skiable, but no specific reports.

GROOMED CENTERS  

        SCOTTS COBBLE NORDIC CENTER
         15 km of groomed trails on Craig Wood Golf Course - rentals, lessons operated by High Peaks Cyclery. Trail fee of $15/day - $10/half-day. Residents of the Tri-Lakes area ski for free (Donations appreciated)       scottscobblenordic.com.
518-523-9811 or 518-523-3742
          KM Open and Groomed:   Track Set: 
          Remarks:  Closed for now, but ready to reopen if it snows..
          MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG:
        https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/daily-update/   518-523-2811
          Km Open and Groomed:  Track Set:   
         Legacy loops have  thin cover and are not being groomed with only the Flatlander officially listed as open. Competition loops are being groomed and have very good cover thanks to the preparations for the World Cup races..        
 PAUL SMITH'S VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER:
         https://www.paulsmithsvic.org/trailconditions/  518-327-6241
           Km Groomed and Open: 15 km  Track Set: 15 km 
           Remarks: Most wider trails groomed and set with good skiing as of Wednesday. Continued grooming through the weekend should keep the skiing good even with the colder temperatures. This will be their last week of grooming and the lodge will be closed as of Sunday.    
             DEWEY MOUNTAIN:
           https://www.facebook.com/deweymountainrecreationcenter  518-891-2697
            Km Open:  5   Track set: 
             Remarks: Lower trails reported as good skiing and the upper trails are open. 
           TUPPER LAKE X-C SKI TRAILS
           https://www.facebook.com/Tupper-Lake-Groomed-XC-Trails-102907273119538/  518-359-8370
            Km Open:    Track set:   
            Surface Conditions:  
​        Remarks:  No current report

          ADK CASCADE WELCOME CENTER (PREVIOUSLY: CASCADE CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER) 
Unfortunately, not operating this winter with its long-term status yet to be determined.

BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS
Winter conditions regarding temperatures and snow depth still sufficient to require skis or snowshoes.  Wednesday 3/17  report from Lake Colden says the snow depth at the cabin was 27" and it has not likely changed much since then.  Still 4-5 feet or more of snow with deeper drifts at 4,000 feet.   Lake ice: Use your own judgment, and as always use care around inlets and outlets.    
Whiteface Highway:  The highway should be mostly skiable, but some corners may be bare.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing: No current report.
Marcy Dam, Truck Trail:  Meadows Lane now blocked off for the winter. Park on the left to leave room for ranger vehicles with snowmobile trailers in the event of an emergency.  No current report, but back to continuous (if sometimes thin) cover to Marcy Dam.
Fish Pond Truck Trail:   Still skiable based on the base that had accumulated before the meltdown.  The ponds for the alternate return are not likely skiable. 
Hays Brook Truck Trail: Still very skiable according to a report from a ski on Monday. The most recent storm has not been plowed, but 4WD will not have any problem. 
Newcomb Lake Road: As usual, still good skiing despite the meltdown.   
Gulf Brook Road to Boreas Ponds:  Cover right from Blue Ridge Rd. and it has continued to be plowed.
​Raquette Falls: No current report
Avalanche Pass:  The hiking trail is still officially closed due to the July landslide, but the ski trail is open. (Of course the two join up, but that is how at least some are reporting the situation.)  Crossing of Avalanche Lake is now questionable.  Calamity Brook Trail from Upper Works to Flowed Lands, still skiable, but the bridge over Calamity Brook is out and the crossing is likely very difficult. Also, the Opalescent River in Flowed Lands is no longer crossable.
 ​Ausable Lake Road:  Thin cover at the gate and probably no snowmobile traffic.
Wright Peak Ski Trail:  It was skiable up to the divergence from the hiking trail, but no longer. Good cover remains on the top half.  
Mt. Marcy Ski Trail:  Plenty of  snow past Marcy Dam, but crossing of Phelps Brook just above the dam and the crossing of Marcy Brook at Indian Falls could be difficult.  
​]]>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:41:28 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/post-meltdown-reportUPDATE 3/23/26:
       Below freezing Monday morning, so it will be frozen surfaces given the wet snow that has fallen recently. Ungroomed areas that still have snow will be marginal until it warms up.
​           No updated report from Mt. Van Hoevenberg as they are probably in (personal) recovery mode after hosting three World Cup races and over 30,000 spectators over the past three days. Going forward at Van Ho, there will be good cover on the competition trails for several weeks to a month, but the Legacy trails only have a few inches on no base.
        The Paul Smiths VIC reports fresh grooming as of Monday, and that is surely the best skiing available today and for the rest of the week.

UPDATE 3/21/26:
      On Friday we picked up 3-5" of heavy, wet snow - heavy enough that previously bare areas may again be skiable.  No specific reports except that the McKenzie Pond Rd. approach to the Jackrabbit Trail is again skiable. And given the cover that survived on the Whiteface Inn Lane side that should be back to good skiing again. 
      Otherwise, Friday was a memorable day at Mt. Van Hoevenberg with about 8,000 fans lining the course to cheer on our recent Olympic medalists, Jessie Diggins, Ben Ogden, and Gus Schumacher, in the 10km event. Today's sprint at 1 PM will supposedly be carried live by NBC, which might be better than dealing with heavy wet snow.

Yet again, your usual reporter left some nice conditions here to ski a bit in Norway only to return to mostly bare ground. Maybe I should stay home next year.

EVENT PROMOTION
Nevertheless, there is still some snow out there and we could again see some good new snow return after the  official start of spring.  Meanwhile, this weekend doesn't look to be all that great for skiing, so consider watching the best x-c skiers in the world who will be competing at the World Cup Cross-Country finals at Mt. Van Hoevenberg Friday, Saturday, or Sunday - or perhaps all three. Friday and Sunday will be distance races, but with multiple laps there will be plenty of opportunity to see the racers. Saturday may be the best day since that will be the sprints. Competing in those sprints will be Olympic Silver Medal winner Ben Ogden along with another American, Gus Schumacher, who teamed up with Ben to take silver in the Team Sprint at the Milan-Cortina Olympics.

Sunday will be significant in that it will culminate with the presentation of the crystal globes for the best overall performances in the season that started back in November.  American Jessie Diggins, who has announced her retirement, will truly go out on top as she has already wrapped up the Distance World Cup along with enjoying a comfortable lead in the Overall Crystal Globe standings. This will truly be a memorable day for American cross-country skiing. 

Tickets are $20 for adults for one day or $40 for all three days. Teens and seniors are $10/day and $20/for three. Those 12 and under are free. The best link I've found to purchase tickets is here: tinyurl.com/5t4xsxks

CONDITIONS INTRODUCTION
Despite a bit of new snow today, Tuesday, conditions are limited. The weather through the coming weekend will be mostly cloudy with temperatures upper 30s to 40 and some chance of rain or snow each day.  The high winds on Tuesday mean that there could be new trees down, so keep that in mind on any fast downhills, and report any you find on the Jackrabbit Trail so we can be ready if it snows again. 

JACKRABBIT TRAIL
Unfortunately, not much of the trail can be recommended at the moment.
McKenzie Pass Section: higher section still has snow and could be good with a bit of new. A check of the trailhead today determined that there is still reasonably good cover right from the road. Surface conditions are classic "dust on crust" but with a bit more snow it would be o.k.  The McKenzie Pond Road approach is not skiable.
Other Sections: No current reports.

GROOMED CENTERS  

        SCOTTS COBBLE NORDIC CENTER
         15 km of groomed trails on Craig Wood Golf Course - rentals, lessons operated by High Peaks Cyclery. Trail fee of $15/day - $10/half-day. Residents of the Tri-Lakes area ski for free (Donations appreciated)       scottscobblenordic.com.
518-523-9811 or 518-523-3742
          KM Open and Groomed:   Track Set: 
          Remarks:  Closed for now, but ready to reopen if it snows..
          MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG:
        https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/daily-update/   518-523-2811
          Km Open and Groomed:  Track Set:   
         Legacy loops no longer skiable and competition loops are closed for the World Cup. See above.        
 PAUL SMITH'S VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER:
         https://www.paulsmithsvic.org/trailconditions/  518-327-6241
           Km Groomed and Open: 15 km  Track Set: 15 km 
           Remarks: Most wider trails groomed  and set with others still skiable. Best skiing available for the coming weekend.   
             DEWEY MOUNTAIN:
           https://www.facebook.com/deweymountainrecreationcenter  518-891-2697
            Km Open:  5   Track set: 
             Remarks: Lower trails skiable with caution. Upper trails closed.. 
           TUPPER LAKE X-C SKI TRAILS
           https://www.facebook.com/Tupper-Lake-Groomed-XC-Trails-102907273119538/  518-359-8370
            Km Open:    Track set:   
            Surface Conditions:  
​        Remarks:  No current report

          ADK CASCADE WELCOME CENTER (PREVIOUSLY: CASCADE CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER) 
Unfortunately, not operating this winter with its long-term status yet to be determined.

BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS
Winter conditions regarding temperatures and snow depth still sufficient to require skis or snowshoes.  Wednesday 3/12  report from Lake Colden says the snow depth at the cabin is 32".  Still 4-5 feet or more of snow with deeper drifts at 4,000 feet.   Lake ice: Use your own judgment, and as always use care around inlets and outlets.    
Whiteface Highway:  The highway should be mostly skiable, but some corners may be bare.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing: No current report.
Marcy Dam, Truck Trail:  Meadows Lane now blocked off for the winter. Park on the left to leave room for ranger vehicles with snowmobile trailers in the event of an emergency.  No current report, but likely not continuous skiing to Marcy Dam.
Fish Pond Truck Trail:   Still skiable cover according to comment from this past weekend.  The ponds for the alternate return are not likely skiable. 
Hays Brook Truck Trail: Still skiable according to a report from last weekend and a more recent comment on this report. 
Newcomb Lake Road: As usual, still good skiing despite the meltdown.   
Gulf Brook Road to Boreas Ponds:  Cover right from Blue Ridge Rd. and it has continued to be plowed.
​Raquette Falls: No current report
Avalanche Pass:  The hiking trail is still officially closed due to the July landslide, but the ski trail is open. (Of course the two join up, but that is how at least some are reporting the situation.) Still skiable once one gets to Marcy Dam. Crossing of Avalanche Lake is now questionable.  Calamity Brook Trail from Upper Works to Flowed Lands, still skiable, but the bridge over Calamity Brook is out and the crossing is likely very difficult. Also, the Opalescent River in Flowed Lands is no longer crossable.
 ​Ausable Lake Road:  No snow at the gate.
Wright Peak Ski Trail:  It was skiable up to the divergence from the hiking trail, but no longer. Good cover remains on the top half.  
Mt. Marcy Ski Trail:  Plenty of  snow past Marcy Dam, but crossing of Phelps Brook just above the dam and the crossing of Marcy Brook at Indian Falls could be difficult.  
​]]>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:08:40 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/the-best-winter-continuesINTRODUCTION: 
During the past week, we have continued to pick up small amounts of new snow which has kept the surfaces fresh but without any need for trailbreaking. It will be mid to upper 30s on Saturday, but cold again Sunday and Monday before warming to the 30s mid week.  No significant new snow in the forecast, but for  a change we really don't need more to maintain great conditions.
This will be my last report for a few weeks. Megan Gorss, who did a great job filling in last year, will again keep the report updated.

JACKRABBIT TRAIL
Every section of the Jackrabbit Trail has plenty of cover to be skied. 
McKenzie Pass Section: Fully skiable  with finally good snow right from McKenzie Pond Rd.
Old Mountain Road Section: Skiable. Use the new start that bypasses Rock and River.  Park on the left at the bottom of the field to access this new start. 
Paul Smiths Section: Trail skiable from the VIC to  Lake Clear as there apparently won't be any logging on the trail this winter.
Other sections:  Craig Wood to Birdsong Lane and the new section around Scotts Cobble both in good shape. Good skiing behind the guardrail to reach Mountain Lane, and the new trail to the top of the hill is covered and clear. 
 River Road to the Lake Placid Club golf courses also has good cover. 

GROOMED CENTERS  

        SCOTTS COBBLE NORDIC CENTER
         15 km of groomed trails on Craig Wood Golf Course - rentals, lessons operated by High Peaks Cyclery. Trail fee of $15/day - $10/half-day. Residents of the Tri-Lakes area ski for free (Donations appreciated)       scottscobblenordic.com.
518-523-9811 or 518-523-3742
          KM Open and Groomed: 15  Track Set: 15
          Remarks:  Continued good skiing with bot track and skate lanes.
          MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG:
        https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/daily-update/   518-523-2811
          Km Open and Groomed: 45  Track Set:   40
         Remarks: Due to training for the IBU biathlon competitions, all competition loops plus the approach to the tubes that allow access to the North Brook Loop are closed. (Access to the North Side (formerly the biathlon side) and the North Brook Loop is via the bridge​. There are also restrictions on the approach to the Legacy trails from the lodge. Otherwise, all Legacy trails are open and recently groomed with set track on most sections. The groomers recommend the Porter Mt. Loops as the best skiing. So don't let the competition restrictions keep you from skiing there this weekend, and as a bonus you can watch some high level biathlon action.          
 PAUL SMITH'S VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER:
         https://www.paulsmithsvic.org/trailconditions/  518-327-6241
           Km Groomed and Open: 30 km  Track Set: 30 km 
           Remarks: All trails open and groomed as of 2/26.   
             DEWEY MOUNTAIN:
           https://www.facebook.com/deweymountainrecreationcenter  518-891-2697
            Km Open:  10   Track set: 8
             Remarks: Lower and Upper Mountain trails groomed. Lower trails with  track set, and some track set on upper trails. 
           TUPPER LAKE X-C SKI TRAILS
           https://www.facebook.com/Tupper-Lake-Groomed-XC-Trails-102907273119538/  518-359-8370
            Km Open: 10   Track set:   10
            Surface Conditions:  Perfect powder conditions
​        Remarks:  Annual Brewski on Saturday.

          ADK CASCADE WELCOME CENTER (PREVIOUSLY: CASCADE CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER) 
Unfortunately, not operating this winter with its long-term status yet to be determined.

BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS
Winter conditions regarding temperatures and snow depth sufficient to require skis or snowshoes.  Wednesday 2/26,  report from Lake Colden says the snow depth at the cabin is 53".  Now 6 feet or more of snow with deeper drifts at 4,000 feet.   Lake ice crossable, but as always use care around inlets and outlets.    
Whiteface Highway:  The highway is definitely skiable with cover from edge to edge on most of the usually windy spots. However, all that looks white will not necessarily have the same depth of coverage.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing: There is good cover all the way to  the landing. Ice on the pond is an alternative to the up and down start.  No  slush, but as always, the outlet must be given a wide berth.
Marcy Dam, Truck Trail:  Skiable all the way to Marcy Dam. Meadows Lane now blocked off for the winter. Park on the left to leave room for ranger vehicles with snowmobile trailers in the event of an emergency. 
Fish Pond Truck Trail:   Great skiing all the way to Fish Pond.  The ponds for the alternate return are now skiable, although slush was still an occasional issue two weeks ago and may still be.
Hays Brook Truck Trail: Definitely very good skiing to both the Sheep Meadow and Grass Pond.  The parking lot was not plowed after last week's 7-8" snowfall, so it may be necessary to park on the highway. 
Newcomb Lake Road: As usual, good skiing with over a foot of snow in Newcomb.  The side road to Moose Pond also has good cover, reportedly no fresh broken track.  
Gulf Brook Road to Boreas Ponds:  Good cover.  As of 2/5 (the latest in-person inspection) there continues to be space for about five cars plowed. No guarantee that this will continue, but we like the trend. Parking for Hoffman Notch has also been plowed.  (Parking on the road is legal - just not ideal.)  Otherwise, good cover and at least an older broken track all the way to the ponds.
​Raquette Falls: Good skiing to the falls. Gate to the Seward trailhead is now closed, so no plowing or likely any vehicular traffic that might make it possible to drive to the actual trailhead. The "default" parking at the end of town plowing adds about a mile to the ski.
Avalanche Pass: Officially, the hiking trail is still closed due to the July landslide, but the ski trail is open. (Of course the two join up, but that is how at least some are reporting the situation.) Definitely skiable with plenty of cover on the slide area. There may be some amount of avalanche danger from the new slide, but to date no problem and people have been skiing the slide.. Calamity Brook Trail from Upper Works to Flowed Lands, skiable and broken out. Caution needed when crossing the Opalescent River in Flowed Lands
 ​Ausable Lake Road:  Good cover right from the gate.
Wright Peak Ski Trail:  Finally skiable up to the divergence from the hiking trail with great cover on both the approach and the top part of the trail. 
Mt. Marcy Ski Trail:  Plenty of  snow  and broken out.  ]]>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:21:08 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/february-19th-2026UPDATE: Saturday AM 2/21
As predicted we have some new snow. 4", 6", 8" depending on location. It started as heavy, wet snow but graded to lighter snow before the storm ended before midnight. Given that the snow is on the heavy side, trail breaking will be more of an issue that we originally thought. Groomed centers will be able to offer some great skiing, and we will hope for some reports of which trails have been broken out. We won't say anything about avalanche danger than to note that, with this heavy snow on a firm base, the danger exists.

INTRODUCTION:
Despite these few warm days, everything has remained skiable, but the  powder surfaces are now firm hardpack where they have been skied or groomed. However, there will be a significant amount of new snow on Friday and into Saturday - 3-9 inches, which is enough to cover the hardpack without being too hard for trailbreaking. Temperatures will be near 30 all weekend, dropping to 20 for a high on Tuesday, but returning to near 30 for the rest of the week.

JACKRABBIT TRAIL
Every section of the Jackrabbit Trail has plenty of cover to be skied, but until the new snow any steep terrain demands caution.
McKenzie Pass Section: Fully skiable  with finally good snow right from McKenzie Pond Rd.
Old Mountain Road Section: Skiable. Use the new start that bypasses Rock and River.  Park on the left at the bottom of the field to access this new start. 
Paul Smiths Section: Trail skiable from the VIC to  Lake Clear as there apparently won't be any logging on the trail this winter.
Other sections:  Craig Wood to Birdsong Lane and the new section around Scotts Cobble both in good shape. Good skiing behind the guardrail to reach Mountain Lane, and the new trail to the top of the hill is covered and clear. 
 River Road to the Lake Placid Club golf courses also has good cover. 

GROOMED CENTER  

        SCOTTS COBBLE NORDIC CENTER
         15 km of groomed trails on Craig Wood Golf Course - rentals, lessons operated by High Peaks Cyclery. Trail fee of $15/day - $10/half-day. Residents of the Tri-Lakes area ski for free (Donations appreciated)       scottscobblenordic.com.
518-523-9811 or 518-523-3742
          KM Open and Groomed: 15  Track Set: 15
          Remarks:  
          MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG:
        https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/daily-update/   518-523-2811
          Km Open and Groomed: 45  Track Set:   40
         Remarks: All  competition loops open plus 40km of Legacy trails open with set track on most sections. Some disruptions near the 1980 stadium due to preparations for the upcoming IBU Cup biathlon races. Also, access to the double tubes is closed du to IBU prep work. Access  the North Side (formerly the biathlon side) via the bridge​.           PAUL SMITH'S VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER:
         https://www.paulsmithsvic.org/trailconditions/  518-327-6241
           Km Groomed and Open: 30 km  Track Set: 30 km 
           Remarks: All trails open and recently groomed, so good skiing evn before the new snow.  
             DEWEY MOUNTAIN:
           https://www.facebook.com/deweymountainrecreationcenter  518-891-2697
            Km Open:  10   Track set: 8
             Remarks: Lower and Upper Mountain trails groomed. Lower trails with  track set, and some track set on upper trails. Somewhat icy until the new snow
           TUPPER LAKE X-C SKI TRAILS
           https://www.facebook.com/Tupper-Lake-Groomed-XC-Trails-102907273119538/  518-359-8370
            Km Open: 10   Track set:   10
            Surface Conditions:  Powder and hardpack
​        Remarks:  No specifics on snowfall or overall snow depth, but their Facebook page shows ample snow and fresh grooming as of 2/14. 

          ADK CASCADE WELCOME CENTER (PREVIOUSLY: CASCADE CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER) 
Unfortunately, not operating this winter with its long-term status yet to be determined.

BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS
Winter conditions regarding temperatures and snow depth sufficient to require skis or snowshoes.  Wednesday 2/18,  report from Lake Colden says the snow depth at the cabin has settled down from 50" to "only" 48".  Now 6 feet or more of snow with deeper drifts at 4,000 feet.   Lake ice crossable, but as always use care around inlets and outlets.    
Whiteface Highway:  The highway is definitely skiable with cover from edge to edge on most of the usually windy spots. However, all that looks white will not necessarily have the same depth of coverage.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing: There is good cover all the way to  the landing. Ice on the pond is an alternative to the up and down start.  No  slush, but as always, the outlet must be given a wide berth.
Marcy Dam, Truck Trail:  Skiable all the way to Marcy Dam. Meadows Lane now blocked off for the winter. Park on the left to leave room for ranger vehicles with snowmobile trailers in the event of an emergency. 
Fish Pond Truck Trail:   Great skiing all the way to Fish Pond.  The ponds for the alternate return are now skiable, although slush is still an occasional issue.
Hays Brook Truck Trail: Definitely very good skiing to both the Sheep Meadow and Grass Pond.  The parking lot continues to be plowed. 
Newcomb Lake Road: As usual, good skiing with over a foot of snow in Newcomb.  The side road to Moose Pond also has good cover and there is reportedly broken track for at least a mile with no difficult blowdown to negotiate. 
Gulf Brook Road to Boreas Ponds:  Good cover.  As of 2/5 there continues to be space for about five cars plowed. No guarantee that this will continue, but we like the trend. Parking for Hoffman Notch has also been plowed.  (Parking on the road is legal - just not ideal.)  Otherwise, good cover and a broken track all the way to the ponds.
​Raquette Falls: Good skiing to the falls. Gate to the Seward trailhead is now closed, so no plowing or likely any vehicular traffic that might make it possible to drive to the actual trailhead. The "default" parking at the end of town plowing adds about a mile to the ski.
Avalanche Pass: Officially, the hiking trail is still closed due to the July landslide, but the ski trail is open. (Of course the two join up, but that is how at least some are reporting the situation.) Definitely skiable with plenty of cover on the slid area. There is also a yet to be determined amount of avalanche danger from the new slide, but to date no problem and people have been skiing the slide.. Calamity Brook Trail from Upper Works to Flowed Lands, skiable and broken out. Caution needed when crossing the Opalescent River in Flowed Lands
 ​Ausable Lake Road:  Finally good cover right from the gate.
Wright Peak Ski Trail:  Finally skiable up to the divergence from the hiking trail with great cover on both the approach and the top part of the trail. Much yse on that trail this past weekend.
Mt. Marcy Ski Trail:  Plenty of  snow  and broken out.  ]]>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:01:18 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/finally-a-warming-but-not-too-warm-trend-plus-new-snowUPDATE 2/14/26:
This has been the easiest year yet to report ski conditions as nothing really has changed since the skiing  was good.  Sunday and Monday will continue just what has been reported below as of 2/6 with temperatures near but not above freezing. Then the middle of next week will see some warmer temperatures, but nothing that will in any way diminish the base we have built up. Perhaps the surfaces will suffer a bit, but temperatures will drop with a bit more snow to improve surfaces before the coming weekend when it will again be below - but not too far below - freezing.

Pretty much no change in the conditions reported as of last Friday. We are looking at some more new snow on Tuesday into Tuesday night. The National Weather Service still says just 1-3 inches while other forecasters say 3-6". We'll see, but unlike some recent winters it doesn't really matter except the degree to which your drive to the trailhead might be affected. 

Looking ahead, not much new snow past Tuesday, but warming to the 20s as of Wednesday and then around freezing for highs Saturday-Monday. If you stayed inside last weekend because it was too cold, you have no excuse this weekend.]]>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:25:43 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/good-snow-but-another-cold-weekend-aheadINTRODUCTION:
Given the continued cold weather and the amount of snow on the ground, there is almost no need for this report. Everything is skiable with powder surfaces and will remain so through the weekend and into next week.  There will be a few inches of new snow on Friday night and Saturday will not be bitterly cold to start with. However, the temperature will drop significantly in the afternoon, so get out early. Sunday will see a high of maybe zero, but warming to the mid 20s by the middle of the week

JACKRABBIT TRAIL
Every section of the Jackrabbit Trail has plenty of cover to be skied, and  all sections by now have been well broken out.
McKenzie Pass Section: Fully skiable and broken out with finally good snow right from McKenzie Pond Rd.
Old Mountain Road Section: Skiable with beautiful powder surfaces. Use the new start that bypasses Rock and River.  Park on the left at the bottom of the field to access this new start. 
Paul Smiths Section: Trail skiable from the VIC to  Lake Clear as there apparently won't be any logging on the trail this winter.
Other sections:  Craig Wood to Birdsong Lane and the new section around Scotts Cobble both in good shape and cleared of blowdown. Good skiing behind the guardrail to reach Mountain Lane, and the new trail to the top of the hill is covered and clear. 
 River Road to the Lake Placid Club golf courses also has good cover. 

GROOMED CENTER  

        SCOTTS COBBLE NORDIC CENTER
         15 km of groomed trails on Craig Wood Golf Course - rentals, lessons operated by High Peaks Cyclery. Trail fee of $15/day - $10/half-day. Residents of the Tri-Lakes area ski for free (Donations appreciated)       scottscobblenordic.com.
518-523-9811 or 518-523-3742
          KM Open and Groomed: 15  Track Set: 15
          Remarks:  Based on an earlier cold snap, the area may not be open on Sunday due to the conditions.
          MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG:
        https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/daily-update/   518-523-2811
          Km Open and Groomed: 45  Track Set:   40
         Remarks: All but 3 km of Competition loops open plus 40km of Legacy trails open with set track on most sections. 
​           PAUL SMITH'S VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER:
         https://www.paulsmithsvic.org/trailconditions/  518-327-6241
           Km Groomed and Open: 30 km  Track Set: 30 km 
           Remarks: All trails open.  
             DEWEY MOUNTAIN:
           https://www.facebook.com/deweymountainrecreationcenter  518-891-2697
            Km Open:  10   Track set: 8
             Remarks: Lower and Upper Mountain trails groomed. Lower trails with  track set, and some track set on upper trails. 
           TUPPER LAKE X-C SKI TRAILS
           https://www.facebook.com/Tupper-Lake-Groomed-XC-Trails-102907273119538/  518-359-8370
            Km Open: 10   Track set:   10
            Surface Conditions:  Packed powder
​        Remarks:  No specifics on snowfall or overall snow depth, but their Facebook page shows ample snow and fresh grooming as of 2/4. 

          ADK CASCADE WELCOME CENTER (PREVIOUSLY: CASCADE CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER) 
Unfortunately, not operating this winter with its long-term status yet to be determined.

BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS
Winter conditions regarding temperatures and snow depth sufficient to require skis or snowshoes.  Wednesday 2/4,  report from Lake Colden says the snow depth at the cabin has settled down from 50" to "only" 47".  Now 6 feet or more of snow with deeper drifts at 4,000 feet.   Lake ice crossable, but as always use care around inlets and outlets - especially on Avalanche Lake where it is best to exit the ice to the right about 50 yards before the outlet and use the bridge.  
Whiteface Highway:  The highway is definitely skiable with cover from edge to edge on most of the usually windy spots. However, all that looks white will not necessarily have the same depth of coverage.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing: There is good cover all the way to  the landing. Ice on the pond is an alternative to the up and down start.  No  slush, but as always, the outlet must be given a wide berth.
Marcy Dam, Truck Trail:  Skiable all the way to Marcy Dam. Meadows Lane now blocked off for the winter. Park on the left to leave room for ranger vehicles with snowmobile trailers in the event of an emergency. 
Fish Pond Truck Trail:   Great skiing all the way to Fish Pond.  The ponds for the alternate return are now skiable. 
Hays Brook Truck Trail: Definitely very good skiing to both the Sheep Meadow and Grass Pond.  The parking lot continues to be plowed. 
Newcomb Lake Road: As usual, good skiing with feet of snow in Newcomb.  The side road to Moose Pond also has good cover and there is reportedly broken track for at least a mile with no difficult blowdown to negotiate. A comment on the previous report  said that Newcomb Lake Road had two good tracks on either side of the road with a snowshoe track in the middle as far as the farm complex with just ski tracks beyond.
Gulf Brook Road to Boreas Ponds:  Good cover.  As of 2/5 there continues to be space for about five cars plowed. No guarantee that this will continue, but we like the trend. Parking for Hoffman Notch has also been plowed.  (Parking on the road is legal - just not ideal.)  Otherwise, good cover and a broken track all the way to the ponds.
​Raquette Falls: Good skiing to the falls. Gate to the Seward trailhead is now closed, so no plowing or likely any vehicular traffic that might make it possible to drive to the actual trailhead. The "default" parking at the end of town plowing adds about a mile to the ski.
Avalanche Pass: Officially still closed due to the July landslide. Reported to be skiable. There is also a yet to be determined amount of avalanche danger from the new slide. Calamity Brook Trail from Upper Works to Flowed Lands, skiable and broken out. Caution needed when crossing the Opalescent River in Flowed Lands
 ​Ausable Lake Road:  Finally good cover right from the gate.
Wright Peak Ski Trail:  Finally skiable up to the divergence from the hiking trail with great cover on both the approach and the top part of the trail.  
Mt. Marcy Ski Trail:  Plenty of  snow  and broken out.  ]]>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 13:52:41 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/best-conditions-in-yearsUPDATES 2/3/25:
The only update that is really needed is to note that Wednesday and Thursday will see highs in low 20s with some sun. Friday will grade to snow but still not be truly frigid, but Saturday and Sunday will see highs around zero. Then a few degrees warmer as we start the following week. It's not ideal, but it beats a January Thaw.
INTRODUCTION:
Given the new snow and continued cold weather, there is almost no need for this report. everything is skiable and will remain so through the weekend and into next week. 

JACKRABBIT TRAIL
Every section of the Jackrabbit Trail has plenty of cover to be skied, and most if not all sections by now have been broken out.
McKenzie Pass Section: Fully skiable and broken out with finally good snow right from McKenzie Pond Rd.
Old Mountain Road Section: Skiable with beautiful powder surfaces. Use the new start that bypasses Rock and River.  Park on the left at the bottom of the field to access this new start. 
Paul Smiths Section: Trail skiable from the VIC to  Lake Clear as there apparently won't be any logging on the trail this winter.
Other sections:  Craig Wood to Birdsong Lane and the new section around Scotts Cobble both in good shape and cleared of blowdown. Good skiing behind the guardrail to reach Mountain Lane, and the new trail to the top of the hill is covered and clear. 
 River Road to the Lake Placid Club golf courses also has good cover. 

GROOMED CENTER  

        SCOTTS COBBLE NORDIC CENTER
         15 km of groomed trails on Craig Wood Golf Course - rentals, lessons operated by High Peaks Cyclery. Trail fee of $15/day - $10/half-day. Residents of the Tri-Lakes area ski for free (Donations appreciated)       scottscobblenordic.com.
518-523-9811 or 518-523-3742
          KM Open and Groomed: 15  Track Set: 15
          Remarks:  Full Moon Party on Friday. Bonfires, skiing, sledding, and music.
          MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG:
        https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/daily-update/   518-523-2811
          Km Open and Groomed: 45  Track Set:   40
         Remarks: All but 3 km of Competition loops open plus 40km of Legacy trails open with set track on most sections. "Classic Saturday" features double track set on the best line on Porter Mt. - just like it was 40 years ago. full Moon Party on Saturday. 
           
​           PAUL SMITH'S VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER:
         https://www.paulsmithsvic.org/trailconditions/  518-327-6241
           Km Groomed and Open: 30 km  Track Set: 30 km with most track refreshed as of Thursday
           Remarks: All trails open.  
             DEWEY MOUNTAIN:
           https://www.facebook.com/deweymountainrecreationcenter  518-891-2697
            Km Open:  10   Track set: 8
             Remarks: Lower and Upper Mountain trails groomed. Lower trails with  track set, and some track set on upper trails. 
           TUPPER LAKE X-C SKI TRAILS
           https://www.facebook.com/Tupper-Lake-Groomed-XC-Trails-102907273119538/  518-359-8370
            Km Open: 10   Track set:   10
            Surface Conditions:  Packed powder
​        Remarks:  No specifics on snowfall or overall snow depth, but their Facebook page shows ample snow and fresh grooming as of 1/20. 

          ADK CASCADE WELCOME CENTER (PREVIOUSLY: CASCADE CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER) 
Unfortunately, not operating this winter with its long-term status yet to be determined.

BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS
Winter conditions regarding temperatures and snow depth sufficient to require skis or snowshoes.  Wednesday 1/21,  report from Lake Colden says the snow depth at the cabin is 50".  Now 6 feet or more of snow with deeper drifts at 4,000 feet.   Lake ice crossable, but as always use care around inlets and outlets - especially on Avalanche Lake where it is best to exit the ice to the right about 50 yards before the outlet and use the bridge.  
Whiteface Highway:  The highway is definitely skiable with cover from edge to edge on most of the usually windy spots. However, all that looks white will not necessarily have the same depth of coverage.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing: There is good cover all the way to  the landing. Ice on the pond is an alternative to the up and down start.  No  slush, but as always, the outlet must be given a wide berth.
Marcy Dam, Truck Trail:  Skiable all the way to Marcy Dam. Meadows Lane now blocked off for the winter. Park on the left to leave room for ranger vehicles with snowmobile trailers in the event of an emergency. 
Fish Pond Truck Trail:   Great skiing all the way to Fish Pond. Still no report on whether there is any slush on the ponds for the alternate return, but there shouldn't be a problem
Hays Brook Truck Trail: Definitely very good skiing to both the Sheep Meadow and Grass Pond.  The parking lot had  been plowed and has continued to be plowed. (Thanks to Jackie N for the comment confirming the current plowing.) 
Newcomb Lake Road: As usual, good skiing with feet of snow in Newcomb.  The side road to Moose Pond also has good cover and has been skied with, apparently no difficult blowdown to negotiate. An earlier report said that Newcomb Lake Road had two good tracks on either side of the road with a snowshoe track in the middle - ideal use of the space available on this wide road.
Gulf Brook Road to Boreas Ponds:  Good cover.  As of 1/24, some plowing for parking was evident at the highway, but no report on plowing since then. Parking on the road is legal - just not ideal.
​Raquette Falls: Good skiing to the falls. Gate to the Seward trailhead is now closed, so no plowing or likely any vehicular traffic that might make it possible to drive to the actual trailhead. The "default" parking at the end of town plowing adds about a mile to the ski.
Avalanche Pass: Officially still closed due to the July landslide. Reported to be skiable. There is also a yet to be determined amount of avalanche danger from the new slide. Calamity Brook Trail from Upper Works to Flowed Lands, skiable and broken out. Caution needed when crossing the Opalescent River in Flowed Lands
 ​Ausable Lake Road:  Finally good cover right from the gate.
Wright Peak Ski Trail:  Finally skiable up to the divergence from the hiking trail with great cover on both the approach and the top part of the trail.  
Mt. Marcy Ski Trail:  Plenty of  snow  and broken out after Monday's storm. ]]>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:42:46 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/this-winter-storm-warning-didnt-disappointSunday night and into Monday the area picked up anywhere from 10-16" of new snow.  Even the lower amount is enough to make every popular ski route fully skiable, and with no thaw in sight we will be able to enjoy these conditions through the week and coming weekend. No significant new snow after Monday, so trails broken out this week will be great skiing for the weekend. Temperatures will remain below normal with highs only in the 10-15 degree range until Sunday that may actually hit 20. Perfect to keep this very light fresh powder fresh and light. 
Now we just need some reports of which trails have been broken out. 
For now,  we can personally report is that the Keene end of the Jackrabbit Trail has been broken out as far as the top of the pass. No tracks coming up from the Lake Placid side. An online report has the Marcy Trail to Indian Falls and Avalanche Pass broken out.
A skier report said that the McKenzie Pass section of the Jackrabbit Trail has been broken out.
]]>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 22:14:22 GMThttps://www.betatrails.org/conditions/mid-winter-conditions-almostUPDATE 1/23/26: The area picked up 3-6" of new snow on Thursday and Thursday night. It came in a series of snow squalls, so some areas may have received more. Moderate temperatures on Friday, but by now everyone must know how cold it will be on Saturday. Rallying to a high of about 10 on Sunday, and then cold with highs 10-15 throughout the coming week. Possibly another significant storm on Monday.
All conditions below updated to reflect this new snow.

JACKRABBIT TRAIL
Every section of the Jackrabbit Trail has enough cover to be skied, and all trees that would pose any problem have been cleared..
McKenzie Pass Section: Fully skiable from Whiteface Inn Lane to the top of the pass. The hill down to McKenzie Pond is now fully skiable to the bottom at McKenzie Pond. Then skiable out  to the road. Coming in from McKenzie Pond Rd., it is still thin for the first 100 yards or so, but better after that.  
Old Mountain Road Section: Skiable with beautiful powder surfaces. Use the new start that bypasses Rock and River.  Park on the left at the bottom of the field to access this new start. No slush on the beaver pond on the Lake Placid side.
Paul Smiths Section: Trail skiable from the VIC to  Lake Clear as there apparently won't be any logging on the trail this winter. Some flooded sections on the section under the power line may again have slush on top of the ice, but the ice is safe.
Other sections:  Craig Wood to Birdsong Lane skiable and cleared of blowdown. The new section around Scotts Cobble is also in good shape and cleared of blowdown. Good skiing behind the guardrail to reach Mountain Lane, and the new trail to the top of the hill is covered and clear. 
 River Road to the Lake Placid Club golf courses also has good cover. 

GROOMED CENTER  

        SCOTTS COBBLE NORDIC CENTER
         15 km of groomed trails on Craig Wood Golf Course - rentals, lessons operated by High Peaks Cyclery. Trail fee of $15/day - $10/half-day. Residents of the Tri-Lakes area ski for free (Donations appreciated)       scottscobblenordic.com.
518-523-9811 or 518-523-3742
          KM Open and Groomed: 15  Track Set: 15
          Remarks:  Trails will remain open this weekend, but the pro shop may close if the combination of wind and cold make the skiing unsafe. 
          MOUNT VAN HOEVENBERG:
        https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/daily-update/   518-523-2811
          Km Open and Groomed: 45  Track Set:   40
         Remarks: 5 km of Competition loops plus 40km of Legacy trails open with set track on most sections. 
           
​           PAUL SMITH'S VISITOR INTERPRETIVE CENTER:
         https://www.paulsmithsvic.org/trailconditions/  518-327-6241
           Km Groomed and Open: 30 km  Track Set: no specific report 
           Remarks: All trails open. Fresh grooming on Thursday. Should be even better with the new snow. 
             DEWEY MOUNTAIN:
           https://www.facebook.com/deweymountainrecreationcenter  518-891-2697
            Km Open:  10   Track set: 8
             Remarks: Lower and Upper Mountain trails groomed. Lower trails with  track set, but upper trails still to thin for set track..
           TUPPER LAKE X-C SKI TRAILS
           https://www.facebook.com/Tupper-Lake-Groomed-XC-Trails-102907273119538/  518-359-8370
            Km Open: 10   Track set:   10
            Surface Conditions:  Packed powder
​        Remarks:  No specifics on snowfall or overall snow depth, but their Facebook page shows ample snow and fresh grooming as of 1/20. 

          ADK CASCADE WELCOME CENTER (PREVIOUSLY: CASCADE CROSS-COUNTRY SKI CENTER) 
Unfortunately, not operating this winter with its long-term status yet to be determined.

BACKCOUNTRY CONDITIONS
Winter conditions regarding temperatures and snow depth sufficient to require skis or snowshoes.  Wednesday 1/21,  report from Lake Colden says the snow depth at the cabin is 39".  Now 4-5 feet of snow with deeper drifts at 4,000 feet.   Lake ice in the High Peaks and most other areas is now crossable, but as always use care around inlets and outlets - especially on Avalanche Lake where it is best to exit the ice to the right about 50 yards before the outlet and use the bridge.  
Whiteface Highway:  The highway is definitely skiable with cover from edge to edge on most of the usually windy spots. However, all that looks white will not necessarily have the same depth of coverage.
Connery Pond to Whiteface Landing: There is good cover all the way to  the landing. Ice on the pond is an alternative.  No current report on any slush, but that is not likely a problem.  As always, the outlet must always be given a wide berth.
Marcy Dam, Truck Trail:  Skiable all the way to Marcy Dam. Meadows Lane now blocked off for the winter. Park on the left to leave room for ranger vehicles with snowmobile trailers in the event of an emergency. 
Fish Pond Truck Trail:   Great skiing all the way to Fish Pond. No report on whether there is any slush on the ponds for the alternate return.
Hays Brook Truck Trail: Definitely very good skiing to both the Sheep Meadow and Grass Pond.  The parking lot had  been plowed earlier, but no recent report on whether that has continued..
Newcomb Lake Road: As usual, the best skiing with over a foot of snow in Newcomb.  The side road to Moose Pond also has good cover and has been skied with, apparently no difficult blowdown to negotiate. An earlier report said that Newcomb Lake Road had two good tracks on either side of the road with a snowshoe track in the middle - ideal use of the space available on this wide road.
Gulf Brook Road to Boreas Ponds: Adequate coverage with 4-5" at Blue ridge Rd.   As of 1/24, some plowing for parking was evident at the highway. Apparently every storm isn't plowed,  but 4WD at least could confidently  pull in and get back out.  So, it's a good trend, but still no guarantee that one can park off the road.
​Raquette Falls: No current report, but should  be good. The Corey's Road gate remains open and hikers at least are still driving to the Seward trailhead, but no report on whether one can still park closer to the trailhead. The "default" parking at the end of town plowing adds about a mile to the ski.
Avalanche Pass: Officially still closed due to the July landslide. Reported to be skiable. There is also a yet to be determined amount of avalanche danger from the new slide. As of 1/15, reported good conditions on the Calamity Brook Trail from Upper Works to Flowed Lands, and it should be even better now. Caution needed when crossing the Opalescent River in Flowed Lands
 ​Ausable Lake Road:  Cover is still  thin under the hemlocks just past the gate but very good skiing after that.
Wright Peak Ski Trail:  Still not likely  skiable up to the divergence from the hiking trail. Otherwise the approach and the continuation to the top are in good shape. 
Mt. Marcy Ski Trail:  Plenty of  snow  above Indian Falls, and now enough to be skiable right from Marcy Dam.]]>