Trail Overview
Big Frog - FS 62 is an excellent forest road route for intermediate offroaders looking to explore the scenic, lesser-maintained mountain terrain bordering Georgia and Tennessee. Spanning approximately 11.4 miles, this trail is a key segment of the famous Georgia Traverse, offering a rugged trek through dense woodland with scenic mountain views that are especially breathtaking during the winter months when the foliage is bare. The route takes travelers from near the Ocoee River up to elevations reaching 2,193 feet, navigating a mix of gravel and dirt surfaces that turn to thick mud during wet weather. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, SUVs, and SxSs will find the moderate challenges engaging but manageable, though airing down tires is highly recommended to smooth out the bumpy, uneven ride.
The trail features several deep ruts and off-camber sections, including one notable descent where offroaders will encounter a 9-degree pitch and a significant 18-degree roll. While a stock high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle like a Jeep Gladiator on 33-inch tires can complete the route without a suspension lift, drivers should remain alert and select careful lines through the deeply rutted segments. Rainy conditions can introduce deep puddles along the path, adding an extra layer of mud and difficulty to the drive. Cell service is spotty throughout this remote area, so downloading offline maps beforehand is essential for navigation. The trail can be accessed from several points, with a popular starting point located near the Ocoee River at Ocoee Dam Number 3.
Difficulty
As you know, trail difficulty is subjective and largely due to experience and rig setup. This trail is not difficult but is rough in places. You will need some clearance to get over some of the ruts. There is one place that goes down a hill that is rutted out where we marked the pitch at 9 degrees and the roll at 18 degrees. We have a Jeep Gladiator with 33" tires and no lift and we made it without trouble.
Access Description
Forest Service Road 62 is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Cherokee National Forest. No permits or fees are required to drive the route, but seasonal closures may occur, particularly during winter months or severe weather events. Drivers should check with the Ocoee Ranger District for current road status.
