Trail Overview

Wilbur Ford Road - FS109A is a two-track road featuring deep ruts and flowing water during the wet season. This trail winds through various cut units and stunning stands of timber, offering a mix of terrain that challenges even experienced off-roaders. The road is narrow and windy, with massive potholes in certain areas, so proceed with caution. Low speeds are recommended, especially in corners, as they can become slick after rain. Many blind corners require extra vigilance, as there's little room for turning out. The trail surface varies between gravel, sand, mud, and dirt when dry, and includes a one-foot step-down. Following the Sissy Fork River, FS109A is not for the faint-hearted. Expect gnarly, off-camber ruts, deep mud holes (often iced over in colder months), and conditions requiring 4x4 capability. It's one of the true off-road challenges in the Bankhead, best suited for seasoned adventurers.

Photos of Wilbur Ford Road - FS 109A

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

This trail has deep mud holes. The mud holes are very deep, with 24- to 32-inch ruts and off-camber approaches. Water levels can reach up to 24 inches, depending on the season. These conditions are highly seasonally dependent. When dry, this trail remains challenging but is far less technical.

Technical Rating

James Rubley

May 15, 2026

Open

Per usual reports the trail towards the end has gotten really bad. One of the bypass trails for a fallen tree is pinstripe city if that bothers you. All of it is doable minus one of the spots where a downed tree is and you have to go around it. Going down wasn’t a problem, but coming back given the deep rut fallen trees and big ledge I had to winch myself out of it. I’m running 37s with a 3 1/2 inch lift so you’ll definitely want a winch and recovery gear if you don’t have high clearance.

Brad Childress

Jan 18, 2026

Open

Trail was in good condition until I got close to the river. A lot of dead pines have fallen across the trail, but bypasses have been made. You will get pen strips. It would be a good idea to take a chainsaw and recovery gear if you go especially after a storm.

Savannah marsh

Aug 24, 2025

Open

Lots of trees down but there are some trails that go around them. Some areas I would think you would need a wench. Super muddy.

Jesse Mckinney

Jun 19, 2025

Open

Kyle P

Mar 23, 2025

Open

The worst part of the trail is towards the end. Need high clearance 4x4. Do not try to complete this own your own with out recovery equipment. large deep mud holes towards the end.

RJ Koepp

Mar 07, 2025

Open

Several downed trees about 3/4 the way down the trail.