Trail Overview
Forest Road R 87 connects Sherman Kennedy Road at the south end and Riley Barnhill Road at the north end. It is a 3-mile-long trail that takes you through the northeast part of the Blackwater River State Forest and gives you access to several trails along the Narrows Creek District. The trail starts off pretty easy with wider sections and packed ground through the pines, but it gradually becomes more technical the farther you go. As the trail narrows, deep ruts begin to form in several spots, which can make line choice important, especially if the ground is wet. There are areas where brush and trees get tight, so wider vehicles may need to take it slow. About halfway through, there’s a small stream crossing that’s usually manageable, but it’s still worth checking the depth after heavy rain. A 4x4 vehicle with decent ground clearance is recommended to comfortably navigate the ruts and uneven sections. It’s a fun trail that starts out relaxed but keeps you paying attention by the end. Blackwater River State Forest is one of the largest State Forests in Florida and is named for the Blackwater River. It is located in the Florida Panhandle, northeast of Pensacola.
Difficulty
Several uneven and rutted sections require good tire placement and ground clearance. The trail begins fairly easy but becomes narrower with deeper ruts as you continue. There is also a small creek crossing that can vary in depth depending on recent rain. While most stock 4x4 vehicles with decent clearance should be able to complete the trail, drivers will need to pay attention to line choice in the tighter and more eroded areas. Mud and soft ground are possible after wet weather, which can increase the difficulty.
