I know this has been discussed over at alpinezone, but I thought it'd be a good thing to pick up here. I skied a lot of BC in Maine and NH when I was in School. Now that I'm back in the Empire State, what are some good mountains in the Dacks for backcountry? I've heard Colden and Marcy, myself. What routes do you guys use for these mountains, or others? What is the difficulty of the hikes? What is the difficulty of the skiing? Do you guys mostly do day trips or do you mix in some overnights?

Also, another good idea for a thread, if we are trying to be all-encompassing for the ADKs, is a Backcountry TR section.

Matt I'll respond to this when I have more time. Tryin' to get something done here and get over to the Mountain! Yee Haw!

There are lots of resources available for those willing to do the research.
First of all, you should educate yourself about avalanche awareness and safety.
Avalanches are a reality in the ADK BC. A slider was caught in one yesterday.
Following are some places to start:

Attend the Adirondack Backcountry Ski Festival. There will be guided tours and clinics.
http://mountaineer.com/skifest/index.htm

Books about skiing in the adks:
http://www.adk.org/new_store/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=SST
http://users.adelphia.net/~davgood/vt_ny.html

Hike the hills and explore throughout the year, not just ski season.
http://www.adk.org/new_store/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=GHP
http://www.adk.org/new_store/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=58

Here's a good article about avalanches in the Adirondacks:

http://www.adirondackexplorer.com/aavalanche.htm

freeheelwilly wrote:

Matt I'll respond to this when I have more time. Tryin' to get something done here and get over to the Mountain! Yee Haw!

Willy's getting a day in before he's blacked out for Christmas week. Good move.