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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
Easy

Phelps Trail

Keene Valley, New York · Essex County · lwn · NYSDEC

Two marker colors: yellow disks to Phelps/Hopkins junction then red disks to Van Hoevenberg Trail.

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44.15223, -73.86594
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Phelps Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High70°F
Avg Low57°F
Peak Rain Chance72%
Humidity80%
UV (avg)6
Air Quality40 · Good
Today
🌦
Drizzle
73°/58°
💧 4%🌬 10mph
5:37 AM8:26 PM
Mon
☁️
Overcast
75°/58°
💧 18%🌬 7mph
5:38 AM8:25 PM
Tue
Thunderstorm
74°/56°
💧 49%🌬 8mph
5:39 AM8:24 PM
Wed
🌧
Rain Showers
60°/57°
💧 72%🌬 4mph
5:40 AM8:23 PM
Thu
🌦
Drizzle
69°/56°
💧 35%🌬 6mph
5:41 AM8:22 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Phelps Trail

Two marker colors: yellow disks to Phelps/Hopkins junction then red disks to Van Hoevenberg Trail.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.
  • Rain jacket / shell
    72% chance of precipitation in the forecast.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 6)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in New York

Trail conditions in New York change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Phelps Trail?

Phelps Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

When is the best time to hike Phelps Trail?

New York has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Phelps Trail?

Phelps Trail is managed by NYSDEC as part of the lwn network. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.