Greene-Sullivan State Forest Ridge Runner Trail
Coal country reclamation adventure
The Ridge Runner Trail carves through what was once Indiana’s most productive coal country, where massive strip mines scarred the landscape until the 1970s. Now reclaimed as Greene-Sullivan State Forest, this 12-mile loop follows reclamation roads over spoil piles that rise 150 feet above the surrounding prairie, creating an unexpectedly challenging terrain of steep climbs, deep water holes, and loose shale slopes. The route passes several abandoned mine structures and connects to Dugger’s old company town ruins, where coal miners once lived in the shadow of the tipples.
Difficult trail requiring aggressive tires and low-range gearing for the steep spoil pile climbs and technical descents through loose mining debris. The water holes can be deceiving — some are shallow puddles, others drop 6 feet with no warning. Best run May through September when prairie grasses are established and wildlife viewing peaks. No permits required, camping allowed at designated sites only. Bring a snatch strap and extra recovery points — these reclaimed hills will humble stock rigs fast. Cell service is decent on ridge tops but disappears in the hollows between spoil piles.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Max elevation (ft) | 750 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with aggressive tires |
| Nearest town | Linton, Indiana |
| Land manager | Indiana Division of Forestry |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | in.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
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner handle Ridge Runner, or do I need a lift?
Stock is risky here. The trail is rated Difficult with water holes and steep terrain on old strip mine grades — you want at minimum a mild lift (2-3 inches) and aggressive all-terrain or mud-terrain tires. A bone-stock rig will likely get hung up or buried.
When is Ridge Runner Trail open, and does Indiana mud make it impassable in spring?
Best season is May through September. The reclaimed strip mine soil turns into serious clay mud after rain, and spring conditions can close or wreck sections fast. Call the Indiana Division of Forestry before heading out if there's been recent rain: https://www.in.gov/dnr/forestry/state-forests/properties/greene-sullivan-state-forest/
Do I need a permit or is there a fee to run Ridge Runner in Greene-Sullivan State Forest?
No permit is required and there's no day-use fee for the trail. Dispersed camping in the forest is free but follow Indiana DNR rules — no fee, but pack out everything.
What's the hardest section on Ridge Runner and what specifically makes it tough?
The steep climbs on old strip mine spoil banks are the crux — loose, eroded dirt over rock with limited run-up, and water holes at the base that can swallow axles if you enter with momentum. Approach slow, spot your line, and expect the exit angles to be as steep as the entry.
How far is the nearest gas station, and is there reliable water on the trail?
Linton, Indiana is your closest resupply — roughly 10-15 miles out — so top off before you drop in. There are water crossings on trail but treat anything you drink from them; there's no potable water source in the forest, so carry what you need for the full 6-8 hour day.
Trail track
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