March 20th – the first day of spring!

Everything is starting to melt, trees are budding, and the weather is warming up.  With everything melting it’s a great time to go see waterfalls because they will have more water running over them than usual.  One park in the north east that is known to have a bigger waterfall in the spring than in other seasons is Thacher State Park.

Thacher State Park is famous for its Indian ladder trial.  This is where you can see 2 waterfalls and walk behind them.  The trial follows along a cliff so make sure to stay on the trail.  There are stairs to climb at one end.  There is also 25 more miles of trails for you to explore.  There is no fee to hike at Thacher State Park, just a $6 parking fee.  For later in the season the park has cliffs for climbing and suspended adventure courses in the trees.

Mother and Two Daughters Hiking at a Waterfall - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010
Budding Cherry Blossoms - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010
Waterfalls in Park - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Important things to remember when hiking in the spring

Hot and Cold Temperature Icon - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010
The temperature can change drastically during your hike especially if you are going up in elevation

Make sure to wear layers so that you can take layers off or add on layers as you go through your hike. Also bringing a rain jacket isn’t a bad idea since rain can appear out of nowhere.

Work Boots Icon - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010
Wear appropriate shoes

The trail can be wet and slippery, so it is important to wear shoes that have a good grip. Also, if you have water proof shoes those are good too.  Sometimes as you get higher in elevation you will find snow on the trail.

Sun and Moon - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

The sun isn’t out as long as in the summer

Make sure you time your hike so you don’t get stuck in the dark.  It is best to go in the morning since you will have the whole day to have sunlight.

Falling Rocks Warning Sign - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Flash flooding

With everything melting and the possibility of rain always be prepared for a flash flood. Do not go hiking in places known for flash flooding or where a stream could easily overtake a trial.

No Ticks Icon - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Ticks

Ticks start to reappear in the spring. Make sure to dress appropriately and bring tick repellent.  Also make sure to check yourself for ticks when you return home.

Check for ticks in your hair/ hairline, armpits, in between your toes, and other places that are dark and warm.

Flood Area Warning Sign - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Flash flooding

With everything melting and the possibility of rain always be prepared for a flash flood. Do not go hiking in places known for flash flooding or where a stream could easily overtake a trial.

First Aid Icon - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Carry a first aid kit

It’s always important to be prepared for the worst. Band-Aids and ace bandages are good to carry with you.

Animated Compass Icon - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Carry a compass

If you get lost its always good to have a compass with you. If you have a map too that is good.

Animated Apple and Stainless Steel Water Bottle - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Bring food and water

Going through mud, water, snow, and rock scrambles with leave you hungry and thirsty. Make sure to bring light weight food like granola bars and a bottle of water.

Crossing Water Icon - Brenna's Blog - Hello Spring - Martin, Harding & Mazzotti 1800law1010

Be careful crossing streams

Watch out for deep water and strong currents. One wrong move can send you fighting for your life.

Brought to you by: Martin, Harding & Mazzotti, LLP
Please Have a Safe and Healthy Spring Season