TORCH TRAIL REVIEW #009 | STONE QUARRY & BAT NEST RD (SOUTHERN OH)
In this installment of TORCH Trail Reviews, we’re hitting the dirt in the Midwest with the crew from @JourneyBeyondOverland. We’re tackling two well-known roads in Ohio’s off-road community: Stone Quarry and the Bat Nest Road.
This isn’t just a scenic drive, it’s a test of traction and clearance. From the infamous "FedEx Hill" to the narrow, technical corridors of Bat Nest, this route proves that you don't need a mountain range to find a serious off-road challenge.
TRAIL OVERVIEW
Located in the rolling hills of Southern Ohio, this route covers roughly 10 miles of mixed trail and connector roads. What makes this area unique is its designation as “unmaintained” public roads. While they may appear on the map, conditions on the ground tell a different story. Deep ruts, steep climbs, and dense forest can quickly challenge a stock or lightly modified rig, especially in wet conditions.
THE TERRAIN
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (6/10), with conditions heavily influenced by recent weather.
FedEx Hill: This notorious climb on Stone Quarry earned its name for trapping unsuspecting delivery drivers who followed their GPS a little too far. It features a steep grade and slick mud that demand careful throttle control and proper tire setup, especially after rain.
Bat Nest Road: This is a tight, technical section where the forest closes in and the ruts get deep. It requires precise tire placement to avoid getting hung up on deep ruts and high-center points.
Slick Mud: The soil here is often a clay-heavy mix. When dry, it’s manageable. Once wet, traction becomes limited and recovery gear becomes increasingly important.
THE EXPERIENCE
This scouting mission featured five different rigs, ranging from mid-sized builds to full-sized overland setups. It’s a good reminder that there’s no single “perfect” build for Midwest wheeling, just different approaches to the same challenge.
Community Advocacy: Bat Nest Road remains open thanks in part to local off-road enthusiasts who stepped in to advocate for continued access. It’s a solid example of why responsible use and Tread Lightly principles matter for keeping trails like this available.
Testing Clearance: Washouts, ruts, and off-camber sections throughout the route can put your setup to the test. Lower-clearance vehicles may experience more frequent contact depending on conditions and line choice.
TIPS FROM THE SCOUT
Bring a Buddy: Between the deep mud and the potential for getting high-centered, this is not a trail you want to run alone.
Tire Selection: All-terrain tires may be sufficient in dry conditions, but mud-terrain tires can make a noticeable difference when the trail is wet.
Watch the Weather: Trail difficulty can change quickly. A moderate run can become significantly more challenging after even a short rainstorm, so check conditions before heading out.
SUMMARY STATS
Location: Southern / Southeastern Ohio
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Terrain: Deep mud, steep hill climbs, rocky washouts, tight forest sections
Distance: ~10 Miles
Rig Requirement: 4x4 with recovery points recommended
Lift Recommended: High-clearance suspension is recommended
THE VERDICT
The Stone Quarry and Bat Nest loop is a great example of what Midwest wheeling has to offer. It combines technical terrain with changing conditions, all within a relatively short route. Add in the community effort behind keeping trails like this open, and it makes for a rewarding, and at times challenging, day on the trail.
Conditions can vary significantly depending on weather, but when everything lines up, this route delivers a fun and engaging off-road experience.
Huge thanks to @JourneyBeyondOverland for filming, and bringing their team through this terrain! Check out their channel for more overlanding adventures.
Is your rig trail ready? Don't let "FedEx Hill" claim another victim, and make sure your rig is dialed in before you hit the mud. Check out our upgrades for the Toyota Tacoma or our full range of Suspension Lift Kits.
Want your local trail featured? Drop a comment or message us @torchoffroad and show us where you're scouting! -TORCH
