Paddy Mountain Road

Total Miles
5.8

Technical Rating

Moderate

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Trail Type

High-Clearance 4x4 Trail

Accessible By

Trail Overview

Paddy Mountain Road, also known as Paddy Mountain Forestry Road, is a drivable trail that winds through the northeastern region of the picturesque Bald Eagle State Forest. Coming from the west, you'll encounter a sign around 1.5 miles in indicating the transition from a groomed road to a captivating drivable trail. From this point onward, the trail transforms, revealing a rugged path with rocks, washouts, ruts, and the occasional mud hole. Be prepared to encounter overgrown areas and witness the vibrant colors of nature in every season, from the vibrant blossoms of spring to the fiery hues of autumn. All along the trail, you'll get views across the mountain tops and into the valleys. Continuing east, after you navigate through the most demanding part of the trail, a beautiful panoramic vista awaits, presenting an awe-inspiring view of the valley below. The same drivable trail sign is also posted at the eastern end to indicate the trail is not regularly maintained and that four-wheel drive is recommended.

Photos of Paddy Mountain Road

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Difficulty

There are loose rocky sections with occasional washes and ruts.

Technical Rating

Status Reports

Despite heavy rains the night before, the trail was only a little muddy. There were a few areas of loose rock but nothing a simple 4x4 couldn't handle. The trail was fairly open, only a couple small sections were the laurel was encroaching the trail however it was easy to avoid.

Perfect difficulty for a stock 2024 Tacoma. Trail edges were overgrown on most of the trail. Prepare for some pinstriping on your vehicle.

Bone stock Tacoma TRD Pro manual transmission. I did the trail east, heading west, which is climbing the majority of the trail. I aired down, and stayed in 4-low through the steep climbing portion. I didn’t have any issues to complete the trail, it was fine, but for a stock 4x4 vehicle it gets a tiny bit rowdy in a couple spots. I don’t see how a vehicle that’s not a normal high clearance 4WD could do the trail E to W climbing … but I dunno.