Spring is a time of change and renewal in the Adirondacks, and the weather this time of year can be equally fickle. A mild, sunny spring day can just as easily be followed by a late-season snowfall, and then be gone again by the end of the week. Rapid, unexpected changes in weather are the norm from March through May, with wide ranges in temperature and precipitation, depending on elevation.
Spring Temperatures
Temperatures generally range from the 30s°F to 70s°F across March, April and May. While lower elevations may feel warm, snow and winter-like conditions often persist in the High Peaks with temperatures dropping roughly 5°F for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
- March – Cold and still “wintery”, with highs in the upper 30s°F and lows in the teens to low 20s°F. March is also the windiest month in the Adirondacks, with average speeds around 15 mph.
- April – Temperatures fluctuate with average highs in the low 50s°F during mid-day and lows in the 30s°F in the mornings and evenings.
- May – Temperatures rise quickly, with daytime highs often reaching the 60s°F or 70s°F, while nights remain cool, typically in the 40s°F.
Spring Precipitation
Spring in the Adirondacks is characterized by a mix of lingering snow, rapid snowmelt, and increasing rain. The chance of precipitation increases from 22% at the start of March up to 38% on any given day in May.
- March – Snow gives way to rain as the month goes on with a high likelihood of rain, sleet, snow, or a combination of all three throughout the month.
- April – While rapidly decreasing, snowfall can still occur, especially in higher elevations, with an average of 11 days experiencing some form of rain or snow.
- May – Frequent, moderate rainfall, averaging roughly 3.0 to 3.5 inches for the month with roughly 11 days experiencing measurable precipitation.
Spring Conditions
The increase in precipitation, paired with spring snowmelt, is excellent for new growth and lush greenery, but it’s not ideal for hiking. April and May are known as mud season, characterized by very wet, muddy and unstable trails in lower elevations, while higher elevations often still have snow and ice.
Waterways are also prone to flooding in the spring, and the water temps are cold (40-60°F), making stream crossings dangerous. Hikers are advised to use waterproof boots and gaiters, wear layers, bring traction devices for lingering ice, and avoid, high, fast-moving stream crossings, as cold water can cause immediate hypothermia.
Spring in the Adirondacks Means New Beginnings
Spring weather may be unpredictable, but for those who aren’t quite ready to let go of winter, and those willing summer to arrive, it’s a truly beautiful time of transition. Wildflowers begin to bloom, the trees show off their new leaves, and migrating birds pass through the area in large numbers, while other species return home to their breeding grounds.
If you’re looking for a new beginning in the Adirondacks, spring is also an ideal time to purchase land for sale. With any luck, you’ll close on your property in time to enjoy the last vestiges of spring, and be ready to soak up summer and fall. To search land for sale in the Adirondacks, view our listings, or contact us for help with your search.