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Weather Words: Mud Season | Weather.com
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Weather Words: Mud Season

Sometimes referred to as the "fifth season", mud season describes the period in late spring when the snow is melting, and creates a muddy slush across mountainous areas.

As winter makes the transition to spring and all the snow that’s been piled high begins to slowly melt due to rising temperatures - mud season is here!

Mud season is a slang term that is believed to have started by people living in the mountains across New England, as hikers used it to describe the slushy trails. Now, mountain towns across mainly New England and the Rockies use the term to describe the slow-pace lifestyle between the winter and summer seasons. While mud season may seem like a “dirty” word, residents in mountain towns have learned to embrace the season. In some places, it’s even referred to as the “fifth season.”

Mud season brings slushy roads near Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine.
(NPS)

Mountain towns put away their skis during mud season and opt for mountain biking, white water rafting and use the quiet period to reset their minds before the summer rush of tourists begin to come in.

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But it’s also important to remember the dangers that mud season can bring to the trails. Mud season creates very fragile soils and vegetation, therefore, some trails may close during this period. The trails can become easily damaged by use, leading to erosion, soil damage, and increased maintenance costs.

If you decide to hike during this season, here are some tips:

  • Make sure you are aware and up to date on trail conditions.
  • Make sure you avoid walking off-trail.
  • Choose a different area to hike if the trails are too muddy.

Jennifer Gray is a weather and climate writer for weather.com. She has been covering some of the world's biggest weather and climate stories for the last two decades.

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