Clinton County Military Road
War of 1812 supply route near Canadian border
Built during the War of 1812 to move troops and supplies toward the Canadian border, Clinton County Military Road remains one of New York’s most challenging backcountry routes. The original corduroyed sections have given way to rutted two-track that climbs through dense hardwood forest toward the Adirondack foothills. Stone foundations from military camps dot the route, while the infamous “Artillery Hill” climb tests modern 4WDs just as it challenged horse-drawn cannons two centuries ago. The road culminates at an overlook near Chazy Lake where you can see into Quebec on clear days.
This is expert-level terrain demanding serious 4WD capability, skid plates, and recovery gear. The combination of steep grades, loose rock, and narrow passages between massive boulders has claimed more than a few oil pans and differentials. Summer brings the most stable conditions, but expect mud holes that don’t dry out until late July. No permits required for the road itself, though some camping areas require reservations. Stock up on everything in Plattsburgh—once you’re committed to the route, the nearest services are 40 miles of rough road away.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Expert |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3400 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Built 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Plattsburgh, NY |
| Land manager | NYS Department of Environmental Conservation |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| 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 Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner run this trail, or does it need to be built?
A stock rig will struggle — this trail is rated Expert with rocky technical climbs and 2,650 feet of elevation gain. At minimum you need a lifted 4WD with skid plates, a locker helps significantly, and high-clearance is non-negotiable on the rockier sections.
When does the trail open and is July really the earliest safe window?
July through September is the reliable window. At 3,400 feet near the Canadian border, snow and mud can linger well into June, and fall storms can roll in fast after September. Don't push it early — the high sections will punish you.
Do I need a permit to run this trail or camp along it?
No permit required to drive the trail — it's managed by NYS DEC under public land access. Dispersed camping is allowed within DEC guidelines; no fee, no reservation, but follow Leave No Trace and don't camp within 150 feet of water sources.
What's the hardest section and what am I actually looking at getting through it?
The upper rocky climbs are where rigs get stopped — loose exposed rock, steep pitch, and limited line choice. Expect slow crawling, potential for body damage if you pick bad lines, and real recovery risk if you're running solo without a locker.
Are the water crossings actual obstacles or just annoying wet spots?
They're real crossings — not decorative puddles. Depth varies by season and recent rain, and with spotty cell service and no easy bail-out once you're deep in the 18 miles, check water conditions before you go and carry a tow strap at minimum.
Trail track
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