Black Fly Season in the Adirondacks

Exploring the great outdoors of the Adirondacks is an exhilarating experience, filled with adventure, beauty, and inspiration. When venturing outside from mid-May through early July, your exploration will likely also have black flies, as that is black fly season in the Adirondacks. No need to worry—there are precautions you can take to ensure your journey is as black fly-free as possible!

Family Camping in the Adirondacks

When is black fly season in the Adirondacks?

With Adirondack black fly season typically running from the middle of May through early July, chances are good that you’ll experience Adirondack biting flies on your hiking, paddling, camping, or biking adventure. Black flies are typically most active several hours after sunrise and one or two hours prior to sunset.

Hiker near a waterfall

How to Survive Black Fly Season

Whether you’re spring hiking, paddling, or backpacking, it’s important to be prepared, and that includes protecting against Adirondack biting flies during Adirondack black fly season by following the tips listed below. Find gratification hiking to the summit of a mountain you’ve never climbed, look for Adirondack animals that call the mountains home, and discover breathtaking views as you paddle through calm waters—just because the black flies are out, doesn’t mean you won’t have fun!

Kayaker in the Adirondacks

Tips and Tricks to Protect Yourself from Adirondack Biting Flies:

  • Wear a head net or a hat with netting around it that covers your neck
  • Wear and bring bug spray when being active outdoors during Adirondack black fly season. If you use a product with DEET, it is recommended to put it on your clothes, not directly on your skin.
  • Use all-natural bug repellant
  • Wear long sleeves and long pants • Wear lighter colored clothes
  • Avoid wearing perfumes
  • Avoid being outside when Adirondack biting flies are most active
Hiker in the Adirondacks

Things to Do to Avoid Black Flies

•    Museums & Historic Sites
•    Arts & Culture
•    Dining
•    Breweries & Distilleries
•    Wineries
•    Scenic Drives
 

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