Pushmataha County Backcountry Explorer
Ouachita logging roads and mountain challenges
Deep in Oklahoma’s roughest country, this forgotten network of logging roads climbs through dense Ouachita Mountain timber where Depression-era logging camps once stripped these hills bare. The 24-mile loop starts near Clayton and immediately hits steep, rocky sections that’ll test your line choice — Buzzard Roost Hill earned its name from the vehicles that didn’t make it up. Crumbling concrete foundations and rusted cable remain from the old Weyerhaeuser operations, now reclaimed by second-growth pine and oak.
Difficult terrain demands experienced drivers with rock sliders and aggressive tread — loose shale and off-camber climbs catch rookies off guard. Best tackled in dry conditions from late spring through early fall when streams are crossable. No permits but you’re deep in working timber country where logging trucks have right of way. Pack recovery gear, extra fuel, and first aid since you’re 20+ miles from cell service. The payoff is pristine mountain country few Oklahomans know exists, with views into the Kiamichi Wilderness from the ridgeline.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Remote |
| Length (miles) | 24 mi / 38.6 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2320 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with protection |
| Nearest town | Clayton, Oklahoma |
| Land manager | Ouachita 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 | |
| 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.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner handle this trail, or do I need mods?
Stock rigs will struggle here. The rocky climbs and technical sections demand at minimum a lift, skid plates, and all-terrain tires — the trail is rated Difficult for good reason. Lockers or a limited-slip will save you on the loose rock.
Is the Pushmataha County Backcountry Explorer accessible year-round?
Best season is May through October. Winter months bring ice and mud that make the rocky climbs genuinely dangerous, and some sections of the old logging roads become impassable after heavy rain regardless of season.
Do I need a permit to run this trail through Ouachita National Forest?
No permit is required for day use on this trail. If you're camping dispersed, follow Ouachita National Forest rules — generally 14-day limits and staying 150 feet from water sources. No fees as of current information, but verify at fs.usda.gov/ouachita before you go.
What's the hardest section actually like, and where does it hit?
The steepest rocky climbs through the Ouachita foothills are the crux — loose shale and exposed rock faces with limited room to maneuver. Approach angles matter here, and a wrong line can put you on your rocker panels fast. Go slow, spot each other, and don't underestimate the descent.
Are there water crossings, and how deep do they get?
Yes, there are water crossings on this trail. Depth varies significantly with rainfall — after a wet spell they can be axle-deep or worse. There is zero cell service on the entire route, so if you get stuck in a crossing, you're solving it yourself or waiting for another rig.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
Log in to contribute a GPX track.