The use of specialized habitats in animals is often correlated with specialized morphologies. However, some species make use of such habitats despite lacking these morphological specializations. What kinematic strategies might such species use to move through habitats for which their body plans are not advantageous? We examined this question by using high-speed video to film the climbing performance of stinkpot turtles (Sternotherus odoratus) and juvenile American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) climbing up steep inclines (70°). Climbing is not regarded as a standard behavior of either species, but multiple videos have been filmed of alligators climbing fences, and stinkpots have been reported basking in treetops above water bodies. Though both species have short limbs relative to their body size, they show functional plasticity that enables them to meet the demands posed by such substrates. As a substrate becomes more inclined, the forelimbs and hindlimbs might be expected to use greater excursions, but with more crouched postures. We found differences in climbing footfall patterns compared to walking, and reduced velocity while climbing. Between species, both forelimb and hindlimb elevation was higher in alligators than in turtles while climbing. As an exaptation, alligators may also use the tail as a counterbalance contacting the surface while climbing, though stinkpots (with short tails) are unable to do so. The reduced plastron in stinkpots may allow for increased limb mobility conducive to climbing whereas other turtle species limbs would be restricted by the shell. These data have broad implications for better understanding the biomechanical and morphological traits necessary for new habitat invasions, improved biomimetic robot design, evolutionary function.