Teacher, doctor of medicine, naval veteran of WWII, environmentalist, naturalist, mountain climber, fifty year member of the Adirondack Mountain Club, and author, Dr. Orra Phelps developed a love of nature as a child exploring the Adirondacks. The Orra Phelps Nature Preserve was a family treasure where Dr. Phelps enjoyed solitude, conducted family nature walks, and endeavored to preserve rare plant species of New York State. Deeded to Saratoga PLAN in 1996 by Mary Arakelian, niece of Orra Phelps, the preserve is an 18.03 acre area containing wetlands, stream, and woodland habitats. Approximately 30 of the 40 species of ferns found in New York State can be spotted among the preserve’s flora.

DIRECTIONS

Take the Northway (I-87) to Exit 16. Turn west on Ballard road. After 2 miles, cross Route 9, then turn left (south) on Parkhurst Road. Go one more mile to the preserve parking lot on the left. The trailhead is just beyond the public parking lot.