New York Considering Daily Limits for Busy Hiking Trails in Adirondacks, Catskills

If you’ve ever tried to hike one of New York’s most popular trails on a summer weekend, you already know that it can get crowded fast.

Now, state officials are considering putting limits in place.

New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation has released new reports that recommend daily caps on hikers at some of the busiest trails in New York State.

Why New York Is Considering Hiker Limits

The recommendations come after years of increasing crowds, especially during peak summer weekends and holidays.

Officials say the goal is to reduce overcrowding, improve safety and protect natural resources.

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In both the Adirondack High Peaks and the Catskills, heavy foot traffic has led to parking and traffic congestion, safety concerns along busy roadways and even damage to trails and surrounding vegetation.

Adirondack High Peaks Facing Heavy Crowds

The Adirondack High Peaks region has seen some of the biggest impacts.

Popular areas near Route 73, including Cascade Mountain and Adirondack Loj, frequently deal with full parking lots that push hikers onto road shoulders or even private property.

Officials say that creates dangerous conditions for both drivers and hikers.

Crowding is also taking a toll on the trails themselves. Heavily used peaks like Mount Marcy, Cascade Mountain and Algonquin Peak are seeing soil erosion, damaged vegetation and some "Social trails” forming as hikers try to avoid crowded paths.

Proposed Daily Limits Could Cap Visitors

One recommendation includes limiting access at certain trailheads.

For example, a study suggests capping use at about 400 visitors per day at the Adirondack Loj and South Meadows areas. That would likely involve restricting parking capacity, enforcing roadside parking bans and turning visitors away once lots are full.

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Officials say most hikers stay for about eight hours, which makes it difficult for new visitors to find parking later in the day.

Catskills Crowds Even Larger at Kaaterskill Falls

In the Catskills, Kaaterskill Falls is facing even heavier traffic.

During peak season weekdays average about 860 visitors per day, while weekends and holidays average about 1,850 visitors. However, some days approach nearly 3,000 visitors.

Officials say the area can safely handle about 1,000 visitors per day.

The biggest concerns include traffic congestion and safety risks along Route 23A, where hikers often walk along narrow road shoulders.

Timed Reservations Could Be Introduced

To manage the crowds, the state is considering a timed-entry reservation system for Kaaterskill Falls.

Under the proposal reservations would be required from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.. There would be a limited number of vehicles would be allowed each hour. But, visitors could stay as long as they want once inside.

Early morning and evening access would still be available without reservations.

Overcrowding Could Lead to Hiker Limits at Popular NY Trails

For many in Central New York, the Adirondacks and Catskills are go-to weekend destinations.

While nothing is changing just yet, hikers could eventually need to plan trips further in advance and reserve access during peak times.

Officials say there may still be room to increase weekday use if managed properly.

When Changes Could Happen

State officials say 2026 will focus on planning and public feedback, with potential changes starting in 2027.

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The DEC is now asking for public input and will hold virtual meetings later this month, with written comments accepted through June 1.