Warrior Creek Trail
Cherokee National Forest's rock crawler heaven.
Warrior Creek Trail cuts through some of the most challenging terrain in Cherokee National Forest, where the Appalachian foothills meet serious rock. This 8-mile technical route starts near the Ocoee River and climbs through dense hardwood forest via a series of brutal rock ledges and water crossings. The trail’s namesake creek crossing at mile 4 becomes a serious obstacle during spring runoff, demanding careful line choice and momentum management.
Rated difficult, this trail requires a capable 4×4 with skid plates, recovery points, and low-range gearing. Aggressive all-terrain tires minimum, with many running mud-terrains for the loose shale sections. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, though summer heat can be brutal in the hollows. No permits required, but expect to share the trail with local wheeler groups on weekends. Multiple dispersed camping spots along the ridge provide excellent base camp opportunities.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Technical, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 8 mi / 12.9 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2800 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Benton, TN |
| Land manager | Cherokee National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.