Tar Hollow State Forest Ridge Road Technical Loop

The Ridge Road system in Tar Hollow State Forest follows the spine of the Appalachian foothills through some of Ohio’s most challenging terrain. Built originally to service fire towers, these narrow tracks drop into Pine Creek Gorge where Depression-era CCC crews built stone bridges that still carry traffic today. The descent to Logan Creek involves a technical rocky section known locally as ‘the Staircase’ that tests both driver skill and vehicle articulation.

This is a difficult trail requiring experienced drivers with modified 4WD vehicles, skid plates, and recovery gear. The clay-based soil becomes impassable when wet, making dry summer months the only viable season. No camping allowed within the state forest, but primitive sites exist on adjacent private land with permission. The payoff is genuine backcountry solitude just two hours from Columbus, with views across the Scioto River valley that stretch to the next ridge line.