Trail Overview

Either way you approach this trail, you will encounter a steep and loose rocky descent, a forced creek fording which can be up to three feet deep, ruts, mud, and a steep, loose rocky climb. Always travel in a group of two or more for this trail, and expect it to take significantly longer for groups of four or more to complete.

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Difficulty

Eddy Lick Ford is named for the forced ford at Eddy Lick Run. During dry seasons, this will be very shallow and manageable; however, after heavy rain or snow melt, it will be 30 or more inches deep and very swift. The crossing is rocky, and entry is gradual on both banks. You will also encounter steep, loose, rocky ascents and descents, which are technically at least partially shelf roads but not incredibly narrow. Sections of the trail will be narrow or grown in with brush. There is a deep, muddy section with rocks and ruts on the south side of Eddy Lick Run, near the campsite there. Expect these to be at least 24 inches deep unless frozen or during drought. There are multiple gates on the north side of the creek, but they do not seem to be in use. Do not attempt to climb or descend the steep pipeline trail near the creek; this section is not part of this track for a reason!

Technical Rating

Ben W.

Jun 13, 2026

Open

We ran this trail from Beech Creek Access to Eddy Ridge road. The decent to the creek was rocky with some rutting but nothing major. The creek crossing was up from some rain and about 18” deep. The mud hole right before campsite SS005 was a solid 24” deep and has an uneven bottom. I drove in the Ranger Tremor and absolutely pushed water with the lower grill. Climb out of the valley was the excepted rockyness with steps.

Corey Turnbull

May 20, 2026

Open

The trail was challenging but doable. With the exception of one mud hole nearing the campsite coming from the northeast start, it was probably a 4/10. The main river crossing wasn’t an issue. I’m sure it would be a different trail depending on weather.

Stephen Ellis

Apr 05, 2026

Open

The ford was running too deep for me to cross. There had been a lot of rain. It will subside in a week or so, but is impassable at this time.