Are you looking for a thrilling ATV adventure in Upstate NY and wondering what the ATV trails are like? Around Brantingham Lake, the Lewis County ATV trail system and Tug Hill region offer forest scenery, changing terrain and plenty of ways to build a memorable trail day. This guide covers the setting, maps and trip-planning details so you can choose a ride that fits your group.
Planning a rental ride? Compare ATV & Side-by-Side Rentals from our Brantingham Lake location. Grant Island rentals are self-guided and by appointment.
Brantingham Lake sits near riding routes in the Lewis County and Tug Hill region of Upstate New York. The regional network includes off-road ATV trails and designated road connections. Plan a route with the latest official map so you can see which sections connect and suit your machine.
Miles and Miles of ATV Trails in Upstate NY
The appeal of ATV trails in Upstate NY is the variety: wooded stretches, changing grades and the chance to explore the countryside at your own pace. Rocks, ruts, wet ground and other obstacles can change the feel of a route. Choose a machine and route that fit your experience, and check current conditions before your trail day.
Lewis County ATV Trail Map
Start with the official Lewis County ATV trail map to plan your ride. The county publishes its map and area inserts online. Use its latest map alongside current trail notices when choosing your route. The 2026 map is shown below; select it to open the official full-size PDF.
Trail Permits Needed
Lewis County OHV trail permits are issued per machine. If you are bringing your own ATV or side-by-side, check the county’s current trail permit options while planning your trip. For a rental ride, confirm what is included with your chosen booking rather than assuming every rental provider includes a permit. Our ATV rental preparation article offers additional trip-planning ideas.
Where to Buy Trail Permits
| BUSINESS | ADDRESS | PHONE # | HOURS OF OPERATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edge Hotel | 3952 NYS Route 12 Lyons Falls, NY 13368 | (315)348-4211 | 24 hours, 7 days a week |
| Flat Rock Inn | 4100 Flat Rock Road Lowville, NY 13367 | (315)376-2332 | 11am-10pm Friday, Sat & Sun |
| Kovach Repair | 5728 Long Pint Road Brantingham, NY 13312 | (315)348-8172 | 9am-5pm Friday-Wednesday Closed Thursdays |
| Waite Motorsports | 18014 Goodnough Road Adams Center, NY 13606 | (315)583-5680 | 8am-5pm Monday-Friday Saturday 10am-2pm |
| Chamber of Commerce | 7551 S State St Lowville, NY 13367 | (315) 376-2213 | 9am-3pm Monday-Friday |
ATV Trail Highlights
One of the draws of Lewis County’s ATV trails is the scenery: wooded routes, rolling countryside and a landscape that changes with the seasons. Give yourself time to enjoy the setting and take breaks along your planned route. Wildlife sightings vary, so let any encounter be a welcome extra.
Local ATV Clubs
The Black River Valley Four Wheeler Club is a local resource for the Brantingham riding community. Check its current information alongside the county’s official trail resources when planning your visit.
You can also explore the Tug Hill Wheelers ATV Club community for local riding discussion. Use the county’s current notices and official map to confirm route access.
Overall, the Lewis County ATV trail system is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an exciting and rad ATV adventure in upstate NY. With its stunning natural scenery, a diverse range of trails, and active local ATV clubs, it’s no wonder this area has become a favorite among ATV enthusiasts.
Points of Interest Around the ATV Trails
Build your trip around the scenery, small towns and local attractions that appeal to your group. Use the current route map and each attraction’s visitor information to choose your stops. Some visits may involve a separate drive or walk.
One popular destination is the Tug Hill Plateau, a unique geological formation that covers much of the area. The plateau offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, and many of the trails in the area wind through its rugged terrain.
One of my other favorite spots is Tug Hill Vinyard. You can stop and enjoy a wine tour, cheese plate and go fresh fruit picking for Apples, Grapes, Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries and Plums.
Whetstone Gulf State Park offers a gorge setting, hiking trails and picnic areas for a separate outing during your Upstate New York trip. Check the park’s current seasonal information when planning your visit.
For MX racing enthusiasts, there is the State Ranked track of High Voltage MX race track in the town of Greig. You can check them out on their Facebook page in the link above for practice and race scheduling.
For local history, the Adirondack Mennonite Heritage Farm in Croghan preserves a historic homestead as an open-air museum. Check its visitor information to plan a separate stop around your riding trip.
Croghan is another place to explore around your trip. Visit the town’s website, learn about the area’s maple heritage, or explore Croghan Meat Market for its well-known bologna. Check each destination’s current visitor information when building your itinerary.
All in all, the Lewis County ATV trail system offers not only thrilling rides but also a wealth of unique and interesting destinations to explore along the way. Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, history, or local culture, you’re sure to find something to enjoy on these exciting trails.
So, grab your helmet and hit the trails – the adventure of a lifetime awaits!
When Do ATV Trails Open and Close?
Lewis County ATV riding is seasonal, and individual routes can change with weather, maintenance and landowner access. Check Lewis County’s current trail-status notices and trail system FAQs before choosing riding dates. Match any rental reservation to confirmed trail access for your trip.
Local ATV Rentals
Make your trail day easier with Grant Island ATV and side-by-side rentals from our Brantingham Lake location. Compare the current machines, choose an option that fits your group and riding experience, and review the booking details before reserving. Rentals are self-guided and by appointment.
Compare ATV & Side-by-Side Rentals
Request an ATV Trail Plan if you would like help choosing. The planning form asks about your date, group, adventure interests and booking timeline.
Island Accommodations for an ATV Getaway
Turn a trail day into a waterfront getaway in Upstate New York. Grant Island offers boat-in private-island stays on public Brantingham Lake, with tiny cabins, the Main Cottage and an entire-island option for a larger group. Spend time exploring off-island, then return to the lake for the island part of your trip.
Hosts meet lodging guests at mainland parking and bring them to the island by boat. Individual stays share parts of the island with other guests; accommodation amenities and bathroom arrangements vary. Lodging and ATV rentals are booked separately.
Get Island Stay & Booking Details. Share your name, email and accommodation interest to request lodging information and find the setup that fits your group.
Conclusion
The ATV trails in Upstate NY bring together wooded scenery, changing terrain and opportunities to explore the Lewis County and Tug Hill region. Start with the right map, choose a ride that fits your group and leave time to enjoy the places that make this area special.
Do you have a favorite spot along the trails I didn’t mention or have you had an unusual experience riding in upstate NY? Maybe there is something I didn’t answer for you? If so, let me know. I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments.
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Spanning several towns and offering over 500 miles of continuous trails. The exact range of the local trails can vary depending on the specific route you take, but generally, the trails cover the towns of Lowville, Martinsburg, Montague, Osceola, Turin, and Watson.
***85 miles off road trails. Other 400 miles are some paved, and dirt roads
In the Towns of Lowville, Watson, are CLOSED and have never been opened. No excess to Osceola from Hideaway Rest Fish Creek Rd***
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