Trail Overview
This trail is located within the John M. Bethea State Forest and is part of the Osceola Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which comprises this State Forest and the abutting National Forest (NF). The trail is open to public access year-round unless otherwise posted. Vehicle access rules vary between the National Forest and the State Forest. This trail is open only to registered highway legal motor vehicles. All-terrain vehicles (ATV’s), off-highway vehicles (OHV’s), side-by-sides (SxS), and unlicensed/unregistered motorcycles or vehicles are prohibited. There are no fees or permits required to access or use the trails.
The trailhead is located off Eddy Grade or via one of the other internal network trails. Some of the conditions of the connecting trails leading to this trail may be more difficult or technical, especially during or following rain or storm events.
This trail is an unimproved, dirt and sand mixed trail. It is mostly a single-vehicle-wide trail, having plenty of shoulder area to allow two vehicles to pass. Expect scattered wheel ruts, whoops, and cabin roll as the terrain transitions. Following or during rain events, scattered locations of water crossing or ponding up to 12 inches can be expected. This trail does not require 4WD or High Clearance, however the conditions of connecting trails leading trails to this trail mostly require high clearance 4x4.
The Department of Forestry (DNF) cautions on their website and published maps that the designation of a road or trail should not be interpreted as the trail is passable, actively maintained, or safe for travel.
The remoteness of this area significantly limits cellular coverage. Recommend having backup navigation and communication means. Having maps offline is a must. Also would recommend paper maps or having back up GPS. Additionally with the remoteness, ensure to be equipped for self-recovery or off-road tire/vehicle repairs. There are numerous locations on trails leading out to this trail where there is evidence of vehicles getting unexpectedly trapped in sand or mud.
Difficulty
Dirt/sand trail, typically unmaintained after rain or storm events. May encounter shallow water crossings and obstacles less than 12 inches, including small ledges. Trails are typically one to two vehicles wide.