Cruisers on the Rocks 4

Get ready for an epic adventure through the hidden history of Windrock Park! Did you know the nearby city of Oak Ridge was born from the secretive efforts of World War II? Oliver Springs, TN, was one of only three sites linked to the legendary Manhattan Project. The radar base we’ll explore was part of a crucial Aircraft Control and Warning network that played a key role during the Cold War, as Oak Ridge continued its top-secret research—an operation that’s still active today!
On this trail, you’ll get to explore the fascinating remains of this Cold War radar site, perched at one of the highest points in the park. The mix of stunning views and rich history will make this run one you won’t forget. If you love adventure with a dash of mystery, this trail is calling your name!
And don’t forget to bring a jacket—things can get chilly up there!

Radio: 

• Channel 5: 462.6625 Primary
• Channel 4: 462.6375 Backup

Meetup location: Trail 2 parking lot area

Join this moderate trail ride for exciting recovery potential (trail 60) and a beautiful view at Panther Rock (trail 51). This ride begins at the bottom of trail 50 using the connector (G50) off of Highway 116. Entering trail 60 from the south, and circling back on trail 50, the ride continues onto trail 88. The final section of this ride, trail 51 will be accessed by road near Braden Flats.

Trail 51 contains optional mud holes, washouts, and deep ruts accessible throughout the trail however each major obstacle has a bypass route for those without sliders or the nerve to tackle the hardest parts.

Expect wheel lifts and potential body and/or mechanical damage on optional lines on these trails but know that with solid throttle control and quality line choice, a 100 Series or 200 Series can easily progress through to the end.


Radio: TBD

• Channel X: XXX.XXXX Primary
• Channel X: XXX.XXXX  Backup

One of the harder moderate options, this run will present a few obstacles that will test your skills and equipment. Trail 11 is easy enough with its two iconic rocks gardens but Trail 60 is a wild card. Washouts and ruts tend to develop that could bring winches in to play, and there are a few gnarly ledges. This is usually a good moderate trail to run if you want to get in at least one winch recovery. It could almost be considered difficult but taking the right line will get you through most of the obstacles easily.

Meetup location: Open Field at Trail 2 Trailhead 36.08447, -84.32423

We will travel via Frost Bottom Road to HWY 116 where we will enter G1 to 11 crossover pavement and continue onto 50/60 before making our return journey.

Reasons to join:

• Rock gardens & washouts
• Good chance to use recovery gear
• Free local mining disaster history lesson

Requirements to join:

• Recovery points
• Communication method (carrier pigeons acceptable)
• Winch recommended, not required

Thanks for joining!
- Knox

GMRS/FRS Radio: 

• Channel 17: 462.6 Primary
• Channel 18: 462.625 Backup

Kick off your weekend with an exciting warm-up for anyone planning to hit the moderate and maybe even tough trails later on! This run offers the perfect mix of fun without being too intense, giving you just the right amount of challenge to get your adrenaline flowing.
The famous rock gardens on Trail 11 are the highlight—you get to pick your line and choose your difficulty, making it a customizable adventure for all skill levels. Whether you want to ease into the action or push the limits right off the bat, this run has you covered. It's the perfect way to set the tone for an epic weekend—definitely a can't-miss!

Radio: 

• Channel 2: 462.5875 Primary
• Channel 3: 462.6125 Backup

Get ready for an epic adventure through the hidden history of Windrock Park! Did you know the nearby city of Oak Ridge was born from the secretive efforts of World War II? Oliver Springs, TN, was one of only three sites linked to the legendary Manhattan Project. The radar base we’ll explore was part of a crucial Aircraft Control and Warning network that played a key role during the Cold War, as Oak Ridge continued its top-secret research—an operation that’s still active today!
On this trail, you’ll get to explore the fascinating remains of this Cold War radar site, perched at one of the highest points in the park. The mix of stunning views and rich history will make this run one you won’t forget. If you love adventure with a dash of mystery, this trail is calling your name!
And don’t forget to bring a jacket—things can get chilly up there!

Radio: 

• Channel 5: 462.6625 Primary
• Channel 4: 462.6375 Backup

The rock gardens on Trail 11 are the most photographed spot at Windrock—and for good reason! This run is pure fun, filled with smiles, fist bumps, and all the good vibes. While nothing here is too extreme, these trails are the perfect playground to see what your Cruiser is really capable of.
The legendary rock gardens give you the freedom to pick your own adventure—choose an easy line to cruise through, or step it up and tackle something more challenging. Either way, it's always an epic ride! If you're looking for a fun, laid-back run with plenty of excitement, this one is a can't-miss!

Radio: 

• Channel 2: 462.5875 Primary
• Channel 3: 462.6125 Backup

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on one of Windrock's most legendary trails! This trail throws everything at you—gnarly ruts, adrenaline-pumping ledges, off-camber lines that'll test your skills, and the infamous V-notches. But the real highlight? The breathtaking Panther Rock lookout, offering views that are absolutely worth the journey.
We’re tackling the entire trail, including the lookout and the notorious ledge just beyond. There’s a bypass if you want to play it safe, but for the brave souls who crave the challenge, conquering that ledge will give you a rush like no other (just be ready to pull cable if needed!).
With several wild routes down to Panther Rock, you’ll have plenty of chances to max out your rig’s suspension and show off its flex. Don’t forget your camera—this run promises epic shots and even more epic memories!

NOTE: This trail turns difficult if wet. In the case of rain we may switch to a back up route. 

Radio: 

• Channel 6: 462.6875 primary 
• Channel 7: 462.7125 backup

If you're looking for a day packed with off-road fun without too much intensity, this run is perfect! We’ll skip the highway and take the scenic off-road route to Trail 51. While it’s not a super tough ride, there’s plenty of excitement to keep things interesting and your skills sharp.
And the best part? The views along the way are absolutely epic! Make sure to have your camera ready for that must-have shot on Panther Rock, where the scenery will blow you away. It’s going to be a fun-filled day on the trails with an awesome payoff at the end—you won’t want to miss it!

This trail is border line between easy and moderate and is a great trail to end the event on! It's a slightly longer ride but very rewarding. You will be treated to a run up to the less traveled uppermost section of the park that few people get to experience. There is varied terrain and great views along the way but the highlight of the trip is Caryville Flats. An impressive plain that gives you and unforgettable view of east Tennessee, You'll also want to be on the lookout for a herd of Elk that makes the flats home. If you are lucky enough spot them it's something you will never forget.

Our friends at Big Slack Off-Road will be leading this run and providing lunch on the trail. They will be cooking up hamburgers, hotdogs, and cold drinks for everyone!

Don't miss this one. Its gonna be epic!!!

Radio: 

• Channel 16: 462.575 Primary
• Channel 15: 462.55 Backup

Get ready for an epic adventure through the hidden history of Windrock Park! Did you know the nearby city of Oak Ridge was born from the secretive efforts of World War II? Oliver Springs, TN, was one of only three sites linked to the legendary Manhattan Project. The radar base we’ll explore was part of a crucial Aircraft Control and Warning network that played a key role during the Cold War, as Oak Ridge continued its top-secret research—an operation that’s still active today!
On this trail, you’ll get to explore the fascinating remains of this Cold War radar site, perched at one of the highest points in the park. The mix of stunning views and rich history will make this run one you won’t forget. If you love adventure with a dash of mystery, this trail is calling your name!
And don’t forget to bring a jacket—things can get chilly up there!

Radio: 

• Channel 5: 462.6625 Primary
• Channel 4: 462.6375 Backup

What can I say about these trails? These are the reason people come to Windrock! Trail 11 is an absolute blast, with thrilling washouts that will put your wagons wheelbase to the test and rock gardens that keep things wild from start to finish. There are a few bypasses for those wanting to spare their bumpers, but if you're up for the challenge, this trail is all about pushing limits!
Then there's Trail 51, which leads to the iconic Panther Rock—where the adrenaline hits another level! Get your camera ready, because the famous “Panther Rock ledge” offers heart-pounding views with breathtaking fall colors in the backdrop. You can edge your rig as close to the drop as your nerves will let you—whether you're seeking that perfect photo or a shot of pure excitement!
Recommended: 33" ATs and rock sliders. While there's a small chance of minor vehicle damage, in my experience, 95% of rigs make it through with zero issues. This run is a must for anyone looking for epic trails and unforgettable memories!

GMRS/FRS Radio: 

• Channel 17: 462.6 Primary
• Channel 18: 462.625 Backup

There are probably more photos taken of the rocks gardens on 11 than any other spot at Windrock! This run is always fun, with smiles and fist bumps galore. There's really nothing too hard but these trails really give you a chance to see what your Cruiser can do! The famous rock gardens on 11 will allow you to choose the difficulty level depending on the line you run. It's a can't miss!

See Video of Trail 11 Here

FAQs:

Trail Description:
BLUE MODERATE RIDE

• A genuine trail, not just a fire road or dirt road. 
• Encounters with rocks, mud, and hill climbs. 
• Navigating around trees and limbs. 
• Potential "pinstripes", paint scratches, or bumper scuffs.

Vehicle Requirements:

• Minimal Vehicle Requirements: Stock 100s and 200s have been seen navigating this trail successfully.
• Recommended Vehicle Requirements: Sliders & 33s. (You can run this trail in a stock truck without sliders, if you are really careful with your line choices.)

Risk of Body Damage:

• It's unlikely but not impossible, navigating this trail without sliders especially can be tricky. It's easy to slide off a rock, and ding a rocker panel.
• Remember, trail conditions at Windrock can be unpredictable.
• However, our Trail Leader is there to guide and support through any obstacles.

Must-haves:  

• WINDROCK PARK PASS for every occupant. 
• Lunch/Snacks/Water. 
• GMRS radio (Not CB, Not Ham). 
• A full tank of gas. Better safe than sorry!

Recommended: While not mandatory, having a fire extinguisher in your vehicle is advisable.

Radio: 

• Channel 2: 462.5875 Primary
• Channel 3: 462.6125 Backup