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Gifford Road Trail
4.1 ★★★★☆ 10 Google reviews · Running trail in Phelps, New York · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Gifford Road Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Gifford Road Trail
This former rail bed is part of the Ontario Pathways trail system. It is a nice quiet trail that you usually have to yourself. You can get a 5 mile (out and back) hike in. There are some neat swampy areas along the trail, lots of interesting plants, and lots of birds.
Very picturesque, yet can be very swampy depending on time of year/weather conditions. Also part of a well used horse trail. This part of Ontario Pathways is usually very quiet as it is literally ''off the beaten path''. Make sure you wear heavy duty footwear.
Beautiful trail. Lots of wildlife. Great trail for walking dogs. Kids loved it! We all loved being able to walk in the water.
It's a flat rail trail maintained in excellent in condition that run through farm and forested areas.
Trail conditions & character
“Sometimes the trail can be muddy because it's also popular trail for horseback riders but you can usually get around the muddy spots.”
Plan your run at Gifford Road Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Running trails near Phelps
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Perkins Park
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Trails & picnic areas offer scenic lake views, with a swimming beach & water sprayground for kids.
Ontario Pathways, Stanley Trailhead
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Recreation area offering hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing, plus a Pooh-themed trail.