Phelps Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Phelps Falls
Phelps Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located in the Adirondack region of New York. It is surrounded by lush forest and is part of the Phelps Brook, offering a serene and peaceful setting for visitors.
The Setting
Phelps Falls sits at 1,158 feet along the White Brook, in the foothills of New York.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Beaver Meadows Falls (60 ft) lies 5.4 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Phelps Falls is relatively short and easy, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a forested area with gentle terrain, leading to the waterfall. The path may be uneven in some sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Phelps Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Phelps Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging.
Current Water Conditions
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
4.53 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge WHITE BROOK NEAR WILMINGTON NY (22 km away).
Today
Moderate
0 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
0 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
0 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
0 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to late May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Lake Placid hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The bare-earth surface loses about 111 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,157 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 41 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 85 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,157 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 111 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Phelps Falls is located near the town of Keene in the Adirondack Mountains. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors may need to hike a short distance to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be roadside or at a nearby trailhead. Visitors should plan accordingly and arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,158 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.201160° N, -73.774861° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as bugs can be prevalent in the area. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
Where to Stay
Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel
Hungry Trout Resort
Lake Placid Inn: Main Street
Grandview Lake Placid
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Adirondack High Peaks region offers numerous hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and other waterfalls to explore.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid feeding animals.
Cities near Phelps Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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