Adirondack Mountain Reserve Parking Reservation System Returns

Reservation system aims to improve safety and access along busy Route 73 corridor

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:08pm

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A highly stylized, geometric illustration depicting the grand scale of the Adirondack High Peaks, with a winding road leading to a trailhead entrance framed by towering, sweeping forms of mountains and forests.The Adirondack Mountain Reserve's parking reservation system helps manage access and improve safety for the thousands of visitors exploring the region's iconic peaks and trails.Albany Today

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the return of the parking reservation system for the privately-owned Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR) starting April 17, 2026. The no-cost reservation system, in place since 2021, has helped mitigate risks to pedestrians and motorists along the busy Route 73 corridor in the Town of Keene by managing parking and access to trailheads on AMR lands.

Why it matters

The reservation system has proven successful in improving safety and access in the Adirondack High Peaks region, which sees high volumes of hikers and vehicles. By requiring advance reservations, the system helps prevent dangerous roadside parking and congestion that previously created hazards for both visitors and drivers.

The details

The AMR-specific parking reservation program requires visitors to make a no-cost parking reservation in advance of their visit to access trails and trailheads on AMR lands. Reservations can be made as close as 4:00 a.m. for same-day spots, allowing last-minute cancellations to open spots for other parties. Since the launch of the reservation system in 2021, more than 56,000 users have registered to make parking reservations. The reservation system operates from May 1 through October 31 each year.

  • The parking reservation system will return on April 17, 2026.
  • Reservations for the 2026 season will begin on April 17, 2026.
  • The reservation system operates from May 1 through October 31 each year.

The players

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting New York's natural resources, including the Adirondack Park.

Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR)

A privately-owned 7,000-acre land parcel in the Adirondack Park that allows for limited public access through a conservation easement agreement with the DEC.

Amanda Lefton

The Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Katharine Petronis

The Deputy Commissioner for Natural Resources at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

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What they’re saying

“We are thrilled to see so many people enjoying the Adirondack High Peaks and thanks to the reservation system, many visitors are able to do so much more safely.”

— Katharine Petronis, Deputy Commissioner for Natural Resources, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

What’s next

The parking reservation system will be in effect from May 1 through October 31, 2026. Visitors can begin making reservations on the AMR website starting April 17, 2026.

The takeaway

The Adirondack Mountain Reserve's parking reservation system has proven effective in improving safety and access in the popular Adirondack High Peaks region. By managing parking and trailhead access, the system has reduced dangerous roadside congestion and allowed more visitors to enjoy the area's natural beauty responsibly.