Mt. Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail
Trail
14.0 mile
22.5 kilometer
loop
Intermediate/Difficult
Elevation
Ascent:
3,101'
945 m
Descent: -3,101' -945 m
High: 5,181' 1,579 m
Low: 2,160' 658 m
Grade
Avg Grade: 8% (5°)
Max Grade: 57% (30°)
Dogs
Leashed
Weather
Current trail conditions
Minor Issues
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“The most common route to the highest point in New York State.”
— KC93 Ci
Features
Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife
Overview
Need to Know
As with the rest of the Adirondacks, it can get muddy, so make sure you walk through the mud and not off the trail to minimize impact.
Description
From the dam, hike downstream to the bridge and continue left following the signs to Mt. Marcy. From here it is 0.7 miles to Phelps Mountain Trail, which surprisingly takes you to the summit of Phelps Mountain (4,140'). Continue past this trail and pass Indian Falls where you'll encounter a stream crossing. This area is the steepest and most difficult of the entire hike.
After this steep stretch, follow the trail for about 1.2 miles to an intersection that will take you down to Bushnell Falls. Continue straight, beyond the treeline threshold, and push to the summit. Enjoy the view!
History & Background
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Flora & Fauna
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Contacts
Local Club: Adirondack Mountain Club
Jul 16, 2019: Searching for Azalea
Jul 8, 2019: How to Participate in the 2019 Leave No Trace Hot Spot
Jun 24, 2019: Trail Work Report: Avalanche Lake
Land Manager: NY Dept of Environmental Conservation
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