Hoosier National Forest Forest Road 7055 Hickory Ridge Technical Loop
Limestone climbs that separate trucks from pretenders
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.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1020 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD high-clearance with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Paoli, Indiana |
| Land manager | U.S. Forest Service |
| 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
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner handle this without a lift?
A stock high-clearance 4WD with factory skid plates can get through, but the limestone ledge climbs will drag anything with low front clearance. A 2-3 inch lift helps, and skid plates aren't optional — the rocks are sharp and the approach angles get ugly fast.
Is FR 7055 accessible after heavy rain or in early spring?
Avoid it after significant rainfall — the creek crossings deepen and the clay sections between rock features turn into a slip-and-slide. Best window is June through October when the ground is dry and water levels are predictable.
Do I need a permit to run this trail or camp overnight?
No permit required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping is allowed under standard Hoosier National Forest rules — 14-day stay limit, 300 feet from water sources, pack out everything. No fee, no reservation.
What's the hardest section and what actually makes it difficult?
The limestone climb sections are where trucks earn their keep — loose shale over steep grades with minimal traction and tight lines. It's not a death-defying obstacle, but a poorly chosen line on the wrong stock rig will have you high-centered or spinning out with nobody nearby to pull you.
How far is the nearest gas station and is there any cell service on trail?
Paoli is your last fuel stop — fill up there, it's roughly 15-20 minutes from the trailhead. There is zero cell service on this loop, so download your maps offline and let someone know your plan before you roll in.
Trail track
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