Phelps 6-3-2018

Phelps Mountain - 4160'.
The 32nd tallest Adirondack High Peak.

Our trip to Phelps Mountain was a spirited hike which included a few notable firsts. Included among them: this was our first trip to the inner High Peaks zone. The four 4000' peaks that we previously tagged all sit on the outside perimeter. 

Kailee was excited about this trek and instinct told her that we'd be climbing a High Peak, "Because the weatherman on TV said that Sunday would be perfect." 

I figured that parking at the Adirondack Loj would be a mess and concluded that we should start our hike at South Meadows and approach the wilderness via the Marcy Dam Truck Trail. This path would add some slight mileage compared to starting at the Loj. However, I was aware from researching topographic maps that the Truck Trail is mostly flat and the extra distance wouldn't be a problem.

The truck trail passes over a few pretty streams and it got us to Marcy Dam fairly quickly.

This was the first time that either of us had visited the dam. New York DEC is currently in the process of removing the dam and allowing the area return to it's natural form. It was cool seeing what's left of it and the view of Wright Peak and Colden was stunning.

Wright Peak from Marcy Dam.

After a quick break, we signed a second register and began hiking the Mount Marcy trail. The trail to Phelps splits off of the Marcy Trail and crosses another beautiful stream. After this point the climb up Phelps began in earnest.

The Phelps Mountain trail wasn't very challenging and the incline was never to demanding. Kailee had no issues with it. I thought the trail seemed sort of beat and that a re-route in the near future might be a good thing.

A little over halfway up, we took another break and munched on some snacks.

There was one little scramble as we neared the top then we continued along the path through the pines before popping out on the Summit shelf. This last stretch of trail offered some spectacular views of the McIntyre Range & Colden.

The McIntyre Range viewed en route to the Summit of
Phelps.

The Summit itself offered an expansive view from Big Slide to the Great Range to the McIntyre's. A number of the biggest mountains (Giant, Gothics, Dix & Marcy) had their heads in the clouds for the duration of our visit.

Colden.

A number of other adults in their 20s & 30s soon arrived at the Summit and we did a bit of socializing and Kailee was delighted to play with a dog that accompanied one of them. Everyone was in a great mood and smiles were abound.

Summit Back-bend!
Tabletop in the background.

After an enjoyable time at the Summit, it was time to head back. We took a short break when we reached the stream crossing and I let Kailee try out our water filter. We then made our way back to Marcy Dam and took another little break. Kailee dunked her hat in the stream to cool off and we took in a final view of Wright and Colden before departing for the car.

At this point, I decided to carry both of our backpacks so Kailee could have an easy walk back.

We had a really great time on this trek. Phelps is really nice & it was awesome to finally visit Marcy Dam. Whether you're a peakbagger or casual hiker, put Phelps on your bucketlist and wear a smile to the Summit!