Trail Conditions

First time hiking Porter/Cascade via this route and it didn’t disappoint. We did this as an out and back, though some do it as a traverse. Anyone who has done Blueberry knows that it is short and it kicks your butt!!! Knowing this we took our time. The initial ascent is currently dry, pretty much premier conditions. The trail from Blueberry to the ridge of Porter has plenty of blowdown. But if you take your time and are aware of your surroundings, staying on the trail should not be an issue. Once you hit the ridge the mud starts to show its face. I would consider it minimal especially compared to what is between Porter and the Porter/Cascade intersection. The trek up to Cascade was dry and beautiful as usual. The terrain is rough and the initial ascents and final descents are a grind. That being said once on the ridge it is a casual hike. I would only recommend it to experienced ADK hikers. I only encountered three hikers on the way back from Porter, obviously many between Porter and Cascade. Personally I will only take this route to Porter and Cascade for future hikes until the new trail becomes accessible. As always be safe, leave no trace and happy hiking to all!!!