The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today reminds hikers the temporary closure of the Goodman Mountain trail in the Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest in the town of Tupper Lake, remains in effect, due to the presence of a bull moose observed over an extended period of time. 

DEC staff, accompanied by the New York State wildlife veterinarian, conducted a site visit to Goodman Mountain on July 10. The same moose continues to reside on or near the trail and continues to demonstrate unusual behaviors. It is suspected that this moose may have an underlying illness influencing behavior as it continues to remain on or near the trail and is not responsive to attempts to move it off the trail.  Based on these observations, and the terrain, the trail will remain closed to protect the moose and ensure public safety in the event of a close encounter with the public.  Moose are large animals, and while no signs of aggression have been observed, moose can be dangerous if approached too closely. 

DEC Wildlife experts continue to monitor the situation closely, and Forest Rangers will be actively enforcing the closure. The trail will remain closed until DEC determines it is safe to reopen. An update will be issued at that time.