Rocky Ridge Loop

The Rocky Ridge Loop joins the Fire Tower Trail in two locations. Traveling downhill from the Fire Tower, the first intersection is just a short distance past the wooden bridge. At the signpost where the Fire Tower Trail meets the Rocky Ridge Loop, taking a right at the intersection will lead down Rocky Ridge, toward a rugged, rocky, rooted section, before descending into the neighboring ravine, crossing a typically dry creek bed. After a long climb, the entrance to the Breeden Ridge Trail will be on the right. Taking the fork to the left, the Fire Tower Trail slowly climbs toward the Class A campground, through a scenic, rocky segment, where large limestone boulders line the edges of the pathway. At the next intersection, water and restrooms are available in the campground by taking the left fork, continuing up the Fire Tower Trail. Taking the right fork, following Rocky Ridge, the trail will lead to the Breeden Ridge intersection. After a short downhill and crossing a wooden bridge, the trail begins a long rolling descent through the woods. Part way down the trail, a fork to the left will lead to the Breeden Ridge Trail. Further down the trail, after a series of twists and turns, the trail transitions into a rocky and rooted section, following along the edge of a steep-sided ravine. After crossing a typically dry creek bed, the trail continues a rough, rugged and sometimes narrow climb. Watch for the rock ramp just when it almost seems like the trail has disappeared. Continue up a rocky climb, over a bridge and through the woods. A left turn at the trail intersection will return to the Fire Tower after a long, mostly uphill climb. A right turn will lead back to the campground.