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Mount Marcy via Phelps Trail (Van Hoevenberg Trail, Johns Brook Lodge)
Hiking Trail
Hard
16.58 mi
4,230 ft
A popular approach to Mount Marcy with overnight options at Johns Brook Lodge.
From Keene Valley, there are two main routes to the summit of Mount Marcy. While the most adventurous often traverse the Great Range across several High Peaks, that route requires extensive planning and extreme physical preparation to complete the traverse.
The Phelps Trail, paralleling the Great Range from the valley, is still no easy feat. It is, however, a more attainable route for the average hiker.
For those attempting a thru-hike of the Great Range, this route can be used as a return trip to Keene Valley. If beginning at the Rooster Comb Trailhead, stage a car at the ADK Garden Trailhead or plan an additional few miles of hiking on the road.
Beginning at the ADK Garden Trailhead, the route rolls gradually en route for Johns Brook Lodge. Indoor accommodations and food are available but must be reserved ahead of time. Plenty of tent sites are also available, in addition to the lean-to that fills quickly in the summer.
As you continue towards Mount Marcy, keep left at the fork and look for a small spur trail to view Bushnell Falls. In the summer, take a few minutes to cool off in the pool below the falls. Ahead, the trail leads into a notch before veering west to the summit.
The final portion of the route follows the Van Hoevenberg Trail, situated well above the treeline and in the alpine zone. Be especially careful in this delicate ecosystem and stay as close to the trail as possible. Cairns and yellow blazes are there to keep you on track.
Named after a 19th-century New York Governor, Mount Marcy is the state's highest peak hovering just above 5,300 feet. This grandstand offers more astonishing views of the Adirondacks as its summit lies well above the treeline. Enjoy the views and take a picture of the placard denoting your accomplishment.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
From Keene Valley, there are two main routes to the summit of Mount Marcy. While the most adventurous often traverse the Great Range across several High Peaks, that route requires extensive planning and extreme physical preparation to complete the traverse.
The Phelps Trail, paralleling the Great Range from the valley, is still no easy feat. It is, however, a more attainable route for the average hiker.
For those attempting a thru-hike of the Great Range, this route can be used as a return trip to Keene Valley. If beginning at the Rooster Comb Trailhead, stage a car at the ADK Garden Trailhead or plan an additional few miles of hiking on the road.
Beginning at the ADK Garden Trailhead, the route rolls gradually en route for Johns Brook Lodge. Indoor accommodations and food are available but must be reserved ahead of time. Plenty of tent sites are also available, in addition to the lean-to that fills quickly in the summer.
As you continue towards Mount Marcy, keep left at the fork and look for a small spur trail to view Bushnell Falls. In the summer, take a few minutes to cool off in the pool below the falls. Ahead, the trail leads into a notch before veering west to the summit.
The final portion of the route follows the Van Hoevenberg Trail, situated well above the treeline and in the alpine zone. Be especially careful in this delicate ecosystem and stay as close to the trail as possible. Cairns and yellow blazes are there to keep you on track.
Named after a 19th-century New York Governor, Mount Marcy is the state's highest peak hovering just above 5,300 feet. This grandstand offers more astonishing views of the Adirondacks as its summit lies well above the treeline. Enjoy the views and take a picture of the placard denoting your accomplishment.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interbrook Rd Climb | 0.36 mi | 138 ft | 6.9% |
| The Garden to Johns Brook Lodge | 3.53 mi | 787 ft | 4.2% |
| Jeep Rd Climb | 0.78 mi | 223 ft | 5.4% |
| Jeep Rd Climb | 1.00 mi | 335 ft | 6.3% |
| Mt Marcy Trail Climb | 1.58 mi | 453 ft | 5.4% |
| Mt Marcy Trail Climb | 0.99 mi | 525 ft | 10.0% |
| Mt Marcy Trail Climb | 0.59 mi | 719 ft | 23.1% |
| Marcy, Last Push | 0.94 mi | 912 ft | 18.4% |
| Johns Brook Lodge to Garden | 3.30 mi | -778 ft | -4.5% |