The weather may finally be nice enough to head outside, you may want to rethink taking a hike.

The State Department of Environmental Conservation is urging hikers to postpone hitting Adirondack trails above 2,500 feet.

Officials say those high elevation trails need more time to dry and harden following the winter. Many are still covered with slowly melting ice and snow, making the trails difficult and even hazardous.

If you decide to hike a lower elevation trail, be on the lookout for thick mud, flooding, ice, and deep slushy snow.

Should you encounter these conditions, the DEC urges walking in the center of the trail in order to not damage trailside vegetation.

The DEC is also warning people about the dangers of black bears.

Officials are urging people to remove or secure outdoor food sources that may attract them. Bird feeders should be emptied and spilled seeds cleaned up. You're also urged to keep garbage cans inside and thoroughly clean outdoor grills of any leftover food.

Intentionally feeding the bears is illegal.

Unintentional feeding can create problems for the surrounding community if the bear becomes a threat.

For more on how to live responsibly with black bears, head to Bearwise.org.