Black River Trail System

The Black River cuts a wild path through the western Adirondacks, and the old logging roads that follow its tributaries offer some of New York’s most challenging 4×4 terrain. Starting from Forestport, the main route follows County Route 28 before branching onto unmarked forest roads that climb through boulder fields toward the McKeever bog. Rock ledges, root gardens, and seasonal water crossings demand careful line choice, while the final push to the Fire Tower Road involves navigating loose granite slabs that’ll test your spotter’s patience.

This is expert-level territory requiring modified 4WD with skid plates, recovery gear, and experienced drivers. The 18-mile loop is impassable during spring snowmelt (March-May) and hunting season brings serious traffic. No permits needed, but notify someone of your route—cell service dies after the first ridge. Primitive camping exists along the river corridor, though Leave No Trace ethics are critical in this fragile ecosystem. You’ll earn stunning views of the central Adirondacks and some genuine technical driving that separates mall crawlers from trail rigs.