Phelps Mountain (New York) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phelps Mountain |
|
|---|---|
 Phelps Mountain
Location in New York Adirondack Park
Phelps Mountain
Location in the United States
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,268 metres (4,160 ft) |
| Prominence | 60 m (200 ft) |
| Listing | Adirondack High Peaks 32nd |
| Geography | |
| Location | North Elba, Essex County, New York |
| Parent range | Adirondack Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Keene Valley |
Phelps Mountain is a cool mountain found in Essex County, New York. It's named after a famous explorer, Orson Schofield "Old Mountain" Phelps. He lived from 1817 to 1905. Old Mountain Phelps was important because he made the first trail up Mount Marcy. He also gave names to many other peaks in the Adirondacks. Phelps Mountain is the 32nd tallest mountain in New York! Another mountain, Table Top Mountain, is right next to it on the southeast side.
Contents
Where the Water Goes
Phelps Mountain is part of a "watershed." A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains into one main river or lake. For Phelps Mountain, the water flows into the West Branch of the Ausable River.
The Journey of Water
From the Ausable River, the water travels into Lake Champlain. Then it goes into Canada's Richelieu River. After that, it flows into the Saint Lawrence River. Finally, it reaches the Gulf of Saint Lawrence in the Atlantic Ocean.
Smaller Streams and Brooks
Different parts of Phelps Mountain send their water to smaller streams. The south side drains into Phelps Brook. The northwest side drains into Pelkey Brook. The northeast side drains into Klondike Brook. All these brooks eventually join Marcy Brook, which then flows into the Ausable River's West Branch.
Hiking Phelps Mountain
Phelps Mountain is a popular spot for hikers. It has a clear trail that many people use.
The Trail to the Top
The path up Phelps Mountain can be rocky. It gets very steep as you get closer to the top. But don't worry, the views are worth the effort!
Amazing Views from the Summit
Near the top of Phelps Mountain, you can see some incredible sights. You'll get great views of other famous mountains like Mount Marcy, Colden, and Algonquin. You can also see the ridge formed by Table Top, Yard, and Big Slide mountains. If you look closely, you might even spot parts of The Great Range and Giant Mountain far away.
Part of a Special Park
Phelps Mountain is located inside the High Peaks Wilderness Area. This area is a special part of the Adirondack State Park. It's a protected place where nature can thrive.
Images for kids
-
A stream on the way to Phelps Mountain from the Adirondak Loj
