Hoosier National Forest Forest Road 4616 Patoka Lake Technical Loop
Indiana's gnarliest National Forest technical loop
Forest Road 4616 cuts through the rugged hills above Patoka Lake, where limestone outcroppings and seasonal creek beds create Indiana’s most technical National Forest driving. The route starts near Wickliffe and climbs through dense hardwood forest, with the notorious “Rock Garden” section demanding careful line choice through basketball-sized limestone chunks. Crawford Creek crossing at mile 3.2 can run knee-deep in spring, while the ridgeline overlook at Hoosier Point provides views across the lake and surrounding forest.
This is legitimate difficult terrain requiring high-clearance 4WD with skid plates and recovery gear. Rock sliders recommended for the limestone sections. Best tackled April through October when creek levels are predictable. No permits needed but respect the seasonal hunting closures October-December. Dispersed camping allowed along the ridges with stunning sunset views over Patoka Lake. This loop proves Indiana has serious 4×4 terrain that’ll test your rig and skills.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 720 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Wickliffe, IN |
| Land manager | Hoosier National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a lifted Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner handle this trail stock, or do I need lockers?
A high-clearance 4WD with skid plates is the minimum — stock Wranglers and 4Runners with A/T tires can complete it, but the limestone climbs will punish anything with low clearance. Lockers or a limited-slip rear will help on the slippery rock sections, especially after rain.
When does FR 4616 typically open, and is it accessible after heavy rain?
Best window is April through October, but Indiana's clay and limestone mix turns greasy fast after rain — the creek crossings can swell and the climbs get slick. Check with Hoosier National Forest directly before heading out after any significant rainfall.
Do I need a permit or pass to run this trail?
No permit or fee is required to drive FR 4616 through Hoosier National Forest. Standard National Forest rules apply — stay on designated roads and follow any posted closures.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The limestone rock climbs are the crux — loose, angled shelves that will slide tires on anything without aggressive tread or lockers. Expect at least one or two spots where you'll want to walk the line before committing, especially on the uphill sections.
Is there any cell service on the trail, and how far is the nearest gas from the trailhead?
Cell service is nonexistent on this loop — plan accordingly and download offline maps before you leave. The nearest reliable fuel is in Jasper or Loogootee, both roughly 20-30 miles out, so top off before heading to the trailhead near Wickliffe.
Trail track
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