Gateway Trail System: The Entrance to Essex County's Pioneer Settlement. The Gateway Trail System offers an immersive journey through history, tracing the roots of Essex County’s earliest settlement and pivotal military events. This trail traverses the significant geographic locations tied to William Gilliland’s pioneering settlement in 1765, the Burgoyne Proclamation and Encampment of June 20, 1777, and the Battle of the Boquet in 1812.

To get there: Beginning at the Gateway Park located on NYS Route 22 overlooking the Boquet River and Willsboro Falls, the trail takes travelers down to the Boquet River front via Mill Lane, connects to Gilliland Lane via the Main Street Bridge and follows a meandering trail through the Gilliland Park and Willsboro Preserve (owned by the Adirondack Chapter of the Nature Conservancy). This path take visitors past several historic sites, as well as tremendous fishing access-ways.

Kick off your Revolutionary Quest at the Adirondack History Museum, the perfect launch point for diving into the rich heritage of the Adirondacks! Located in Elizabethtown, this fascinating museum offers an in-depth look at the region’s role in American history. Explore the "History of the Adirondacks" exhibit to get a sense of the landscapes and communities that shaped the area.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and hidden history of Ausable Chasm on your Revolutionary Quest! Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks," this breathtaking natural landmark offers dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and thrilling trails—but it’s more than just a scenic wonder. Ausable Chasm has been around for thousands of years!

In Westport, a stop along the Lake Champlain Revolutionary Quest, history and charm blend perfectly. Established in 1765 by William Gilliland, Westport was originally named “Bessboro” after his daughter—a tribute carried on today by the local Bessboro Shop on Main Street. Stop in for unique finds, then take in the town’s past. Though the original settlement was destroyed during British General John Burgoyne’s march, it likely supplied wood to Benedict Arnold’s troops. And here’s a hometown invention: Westport is also famous for the patented “Westport Chair,” a classic Adirondack style!

On the Lake Champlain Revolutionary Quest, the Big Hollow/Coot Hill Trail offers more than just a beautiful hike—it’s a journey back in time with stunning views of Lake Champlain. This scenic overlook sets the stage for a story about Lake Champlain’s role in the American Revolution. Imagine what the waters were like 250 years ago carrying soldiers, supplies, and strategies that shaped the nation’s fight for freedom. Thanks to Champlain Area Trails (CATS), visitors can now explore this historic landscape on well-maintained paths.

Savor history and flavor at the Essex Inn’s renowned restaurant, a culinary gem nestled within this 200-year-old landmark. Originally built in 1810, the Inn has stood witness to centuries of Champlain Valley heritage. Today, the restaurant continues the tradition of welcoming travelers, offering a menu inspired by local ingredients and regional flavors. At the Essex Inn, history and hospitality come together for an unforgettable dining experience.

Discover a unique combination of history and natural beauty at Fort Ticonderoga! Set on 2,000 acres along the shores of Lake Champlain, between New York’s Adirondacks and Vermont’s Green Mountains, this iconic site invites you to explore one of America’s most storied landscapes. Step into the past and make unforgettable memories as you experience a place that shaped a continent and helped build a nation. This year’s program highlights the commemoration of the American Revolution, featuring live reenactments and special events you won’t want to miss.

The Hancock House in Ticonderoga is a must-see stop on the Lake Champlain Revolutionary Quest. This replica of John Hancock’s Uncle's Boston home houses an impressive collection of historic artifacts and exhibits, bringing the era to life in a unique setting. With its role as a museum and research library, the Hancock House offers a deep dive into the region’s history!

Stroll down Main Street in Essex, a charming stop on the Lake Champlain Revolutionary Quest, where history meets small-town beauty. In 1765, William Gilliland acquired this land on Lake Champlain, envisioning a bustling community. Though the Revolutionary War forced farmers to abandon their fields, Essex emerged from the conflict with a booming agricultural scene. By the 19th century, the town was flourishing, known for its hay and apples that fed markets near and far.

The Moriah Iron Center in Port Henry is a hidden gem on the Lake Champlain Revolutionary Quest, showcasing the region’s rich industrial past. The museum documents the operations of the local iron ore mining industry, which flourished from the 1820 to 1971, its impact on worker's lives, and the preparation, processing, and transport of iron ore from Lake Champlain to the world.

As you make your way along the Revolutionary Quest, stop to raise a glass to history at War Cannon Spirits in Crown Point! Located near the storied grounds of Crown Point’s historic forts, this local distillery crafts whiskey and spirits that pay tribute to the area’s bold past. Sip on expertly distilled whiskey and imagine the soldiers who once defended this land, or toast to the spirit of independence as you savor flavors inspired by the region's rugged character. With its welcoming atmosphere and heritage-inspired drinks, War Cannon Spirits brings a fun, flavorful twist to your revolutionary journey.