More and more people are enjoying the outdoors. The call of the mountains has been heard by many and the number of active hikers in the Adirondacks is at unprecedented levels. It's great to see so many people strapping on their hiking boots and making their way into the wilderness. However, with the increased risk of the outdoors comes increased responsibility to keep ourselves safe.

The number of accidents in the Adirondacks is on the rise. Each year the number of search and rescue operations performed by the NYS Forest Rangers reaches a new high, but being performed by the same number of rangers. Some of these operations have a happy ending, however many do not.

In response to the increased number of people who will be venturing into the High Peaks region this winter, Adirondack Mountain Rescue is launching a High Peaks Awareness Program. The aim of this program is to educate hikers on ways to stay safe while hiking. One aspect of the program will be educational presentations that address specific problem areas in the High Peaks region, and how to approach their challenges. While these presentations are great for new hikers, there may be something you seasoned winter hikers may learn, or you may be able to contribute insight from your own experiences.

Please join us on November 30, 2017 for our first such presentation. This presentation will take place in Clifton Park, NY so it will mainly serve hikers in the Capital Region and surrounding areas, however if you have a suggestion for a venue near you for us to do a presentation we'd love to hear about it.

We hope to see you there.