Hoosier National Forest Forest Road 7055 Hickory Ridge Technical Loop

Forest Road 7055 cuts through some of the most technical terrain in the Hoosier National Forest, where limestone outcroppings and seasonal creek crossings separate real 4x4s from weekend warriors. The 12-mile loop starts near Paoli and winds through dense hardwood forest before hitting the infamous Hickory Ridge climb — a rocky, rutted ascent that’s claimed more than one oil pan over the years. Creek crossings at mile markers 4 and 8 can run knee-deep after spring rains, and the narrow ridge sections offer zero room for error.

This is solid intermediate territory requiring high-clearance 4WD with skid plates and recovery gear — don’t even think about attempting it in anything less. Best tackled during dry months from June through October when creek levels drop and the limestone isn’t slick as ice. No permits needed, but dispersed camping is allowed at several ridge-top clearings. Expect to air down for traction on the climbs and carry a full-size spare — the sharp limestone has appetite for sidewalls. Reward is some of the best backcountry solitude Indiana has to offer.