Eluding the Bugs
Year-round Adirondack residents love the black flies. If not for them, and the mosquitoes, deer flies, and long winters, everyone would want to live here. Even so, this friendship works best at a distance. Yes, the bugs can be a bother at times but we can use our giant human brains to outsmart them. Here are some tips.
General Defense
A first line of defense is to choose a route that matches the conditions you have. If it's hot and humid a low elevation trail that meanders between swamps might not be the best choice. If there’s a breeze, a route along a lake shore open to that breeze can be a good bet. If it’s chilly, get out early when the little buggers are too cold to fly. The bugs like it to be warm and still; for best results, avoid those conditions.
Number 1 Tip: Wear light-colored clothing and a light-colored hat. Deer flies, in particular, are highly attracted to dark colors.
Black Flies
May — Early JulyBlack flies "usually" appear in early May and fade by the 4th of July. Standard repellents work just fine. If you prefer to avoid DEET (which melts plastic and damages lenses), eucalyptus-based alternatives are excellent.
Because they are weak flyers, choosing a route where you can catch a breeze and maintain a steady pace will make for a pleasent outing.
Mosquitoes
June — AugustMosquitoes peak from early June through late August. They breed in stagnant water, so their numbers drop as things dry out in late summer.
Use standard repellents and seek a breeze whenever possible.
Deer Flies
Mid-June — Labor DayThese are the iridescent flies that buzz around your head. Repellents are mostly ineffective and they fly fast so you can't outrun them. But, they are incredibly simple-minded. They are attracted to dark moving objects, like your head if you are not wearing a hat or you choose a dark colored hat. Wear a light colored hat, this cannot be over emphasized, it works.
Ticks
Spring — FallTicks have not been a major issue in the central Adirondacks in the past but they are spreading. Regular tick checks and vigilance are recommended.
If you find one, use a tick removal tool (like the O'Tom Tick Twister) to pry them loose without squeezing. Getting a tick out promptly without smushing it greatly reduces the risks.