Adirondack Park Number Three Road

Number Three Road cuts a rough line through the heart of the Adirondacks’ High Peaks region, connecting Long Lake to Newcomb via 18 miles of technical terrain that’ll test your rig and your patience. This forgotten logging road threads between Santanoni Peak and the Seward Range, crossing multiple unnamed creeks that turn into proper water obstacles during spring runoff. The halfway point at Camp Santanoni ruins marks where the Gilded Age elite once retreated — now it’s just you, the mud, and whatever wildlife decides to block the trail.

This is honest Difficult terrain requiring stock 4WD with skid plates and recovery gear. Expect deep mud holes, loose rock climbs, and at least three creek crossings that’ll have you scouting on foot. Best tackled June through September when water levels drop, but even then pack recovery straps and a full-size spare. No permits needed, but fuel up in Long Lake — there’s nothing but wilderness for the next 50 miles.