Pioneer Trail/North Country Trail: Bean Ridge

Dogs Unknown

This section begins near the intersection of Brooks Rd and McCain Hill Rd. Heading west on Brooks Rd., the trail is on the right just past the intersection of McCain Hill Rd.

The trail rolls the ridge parallel to Brooks Rd. for the first mile or so before descending to the Little Muskingum River. The descent is wide open at the top but the trail narrows up just after you pass an old sandstone foundation. The trail flattens out following the river downstream then climbs back out of the valley gaining almost every inch of elevation that was lost.

The first third of the climb is steep but there are some nice rock outcroppings along the way, then it's just a steady grind to the summit. The final descent is a little twisty at first then opens up just before the end. This section ends at Brooks Rd, there is a pull off just west of this trailhead that is a popular parking area for trail users.

Riding this section in reverse requires more climbing but is nearly as fun.