Ratcliffburg Loop

• Primarily gravel and forest roads with varying widths and conditions.
• Numerous tight, twisty sections characteristic of Tar Hollow’s steep terrain.
• Three dedicated trail sections provide technical challenges for properly equipped vehicles.
• Expect occasional mud, ruts, and off-camber features in designated trail areas.

Featured Trail Sections

1. Pleasant Ridge Road – Tar Hollow Trail

• Difficulty: Blue (5)
• Terrain: Mudholes, off-camber sections, uneven surfaces.
• Notes: This is the most technical of the three trails.
• Recommended Equipment: Minimum 33″ tires; high-clearance 4×4 strongly advised.

2. Blue Creek Trail – Tar Hollow Trail

• Difficulty: Roughly a “3” for most of its length.
• Key Feature: Approaches a huge off-camber section near the end.
• Bypass: A safer bypass is located on the right, avoiding the severe tilt.
  • Bypass Coordinates: 39.37919, -82.67719

• Emphasizes the rugged beauty of Tar Hollow State Forest, one of Ohio’s most remote and challenging wooded areas.
• Dense canopy, steep ridges, and deep hollows give the loop a distinctly wild character.
• A rewarding blend of scenic gravel cruising and off-road skill sections.

• Limited directly within Tar Hollow’s interior – although there are multiple picnic areas if you bring your own food.
• Drivers should fuel up and prepare before entering the forest due to limited services. Fuel available in Allenville – 5 miles from Ratcliffburg on RT 50.