Adirondack Park Number Four Road
Old logging road through Adirondack wilderness
Number Four Road cuts a 25-mile swath through some of the Adirondacks’ most remote territory, connecting Long Lake to Tupper Lake via an old logging route that hasn’t changed much since the 1800s. The road follows the Raquette River drainage, crossing multiple tributaries including the challenging Rock Pond Outlet ford that can run knee-deep during spring melt. Halfway through, you’ll hit the old Number Four railroad grade, where massive white pines tower over the remains of a logging camp that once housed 300 men.
This is moderate 4WD territory requiring high clearance and experience with muddy conditions – the clay sections turn to axle-deep soup after rain. Best tackled June through September when water levels drop, though even then expect at least three creek crossings that demand careful line selection. No permits needed, but fuel up in Long Lake because there’s nothing out there except black flies and the occasional moose. The payoff is legitimate wilderness solitude and some of the best dispersed camping spots in the northeast.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 25 mi / 40.2 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1850 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Long Lake, New York |
| Land manager | New York State Department of Environmental Conservation |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler run Number Four Road without modifications?
Yes — a stock 4WD with decent ground clearance handles this trail fine in dry conditions. Lift and skid plates become more relevant after heavy rain when ruts deepen and the stream crossings get pushy.
When does Number Four Road typically become passable in spring, and is it rideable in fall?
Spring mud season (April–May) turns this into a sloppy mess and risks serious rutting — June is the safe open. Fall through September is solid; after that, early snow and soft ground make it a gamble.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp on Number Four Road?
No permit required — it's managed by the New York State DEC as public land. Dispersed camping is allowed but you must follow DEC regulations: 150 feet from water and trails, no stay longer than 3 nights in one spot.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The stream crossings are the crux — water depth varies significantly with recent rainfall and can catch you off guard. The trail itself is rutted logging road with occasional downed timber; nothing technical, but sloppy conditions after rain will test your recovery kit and patience.
Is there any cell service on the trail, and how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead?
Zero cell service for the full 25 miles — plan accordingly and carry a satellite communicator. Long Lake has a gas station; fuel up there before you head in because Tupper Lake is the next option and you don't want to be guessing on an empty tank after a long day in the backcountry.
Trail track
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