Adult specimens reach 160mm (6.25in) in total length. The species is named for the long fourth toe on each hind foot. They have smooth skin with a dorsal stripe that can be yellow, tan or green. Costal grooves are present and the head is round in shape.
Long-toed Salamander eggs are laid in still or slow-moving water. They are attached to vegetation or logs and can be laid singly or in clusters. Hatch time is 2 to 4 weeks.
Balancers are present on hatchlings with large external gills noticeable on larvae. Larval period lasts from about 50 days to 14 months. Larvae are uniform in color.