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DEC issues High Peaks warnings

The state Department of Environmental Conservation has issued three warnings for users of the High Peaks, and two popular trails are affected.

In a statement released Monday, the DEC said that the high-water bridge on the Calamity Brook trail is unsafe and should not be used. The department also warned hikers that crossing the stream at this time of year can be especially dangerous due to snowmelt and rainfall.

The DEC instead recommends that hikers use the East River Trail to the Flowed Lands, but warns that this will add 3.7 miles one-way to each trip.

DEC also noted that the top landing of the Mount Adams fire tower near Tahawus has been damaged by ice and wind. DEC says users should avoid the tower until repairs are completed later this year.

The third notice states that with ice and snow melting, rare and endangered alpine plants will be exposed on mountain summits.

“Protect sensitive and rare alpine vegetation by wearing snowshoes and skis above the summits and staying on the packed trails,” the DEC said in the release. “Carry and wear crampons when trails are icy and conditions warrant. Stay on the trail.”

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