Stony Lonesome – Jeep Badge Of Honor

Buckle up, fellow adventurers, because I’m about to take you on a journey that’s as thrilling as it is unforgettable. Picture this: a group of Jeep enthusiasts from The Georgia Jeep Alliance Jeep Club, armed with determination and a love for off-roading, embarking on a weekend escapade to Stony Lonesome OHV Park in Bremen, AL. Our goal? To conquer the trails, earn some coveted Jeep Badge of Honors, and make memories that would last a lifetime. And let me tell you, what awaited us at Stony Lonesome was nothing short of epic.

Our adventure kicked off with a 250-mile journey to the off-road paradise of Stony Lonesome. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and rugged terrain of Alabama, this park is a haven for thrill-seekers and off-road enthusiasts alike. With our Jeeps loaded up and our spirits high, we hit the road, eager to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead.

Trails for Every Adventurer

The heart of Stony Lonesome lies in its trail system, meticulously designed to cater to a spectrum of skill levels and interests. Whether you’re embarking on a leisurely hike, tackling challenging rock formations, or maneuvering through muddy terrains, the park offers an array of experiences to satiate your adventurous spirit. With trails ranging from beginner-friendly paths to advanced routes demanding finesse and expertise, there’s something for everyone at Stony Lonesome.

A History Etched in Stone

The origins of Stony Lonesome OHV Park trace back to a rich tapestry of industrial endeavors. Once a hub for limestone quarries supplying construction materials, the land transitioned through various phases, including serving as a landfill and a dumping ground for construction debris. However, in the early 2000s, local authorities recognized the potential for recreational use and embarked on a transformative journey to create a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

In 2003, through collaborative efforts between the Cullman County Commission, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Stony Lonesome OHV Park officially opened its gates to the public. What was once scarred by industrial activities now stood as a testament to nature’s resilience, offering a sanctuary for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

While the trails steal the spotlight, Stony Lonesome OHV Park harbors hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The park’s features and attractions add layers to the visitor experience, offering glimpses into the area’s industrial past and showcasing its natural beauty:

• Piney Woods: Enveloped by pine forests, the trail system winds through verdant landscapes, offering a harmonious blend of peace and adventure.
• Wildlife Viewing Areas: Nature’s inhabitants take center stage at designated wildlife viewing areas, where visitors can marvel at the diverse fauna that calls Stony Lonesome home.
• Overlook Points: Panoramic vistas await at overlook points scattered throughout the park, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to soak in the beauty of nature’s handiwork.
• Campgrounds: For those seeking an immersive experience, Stony Lonesome’s campgrounds provide a rustic retreat amidst the wilderness, allowing visitors to unwind under the starlit skies after a day of exploration.

• Limestone Quarry: A testament to the area’s industrial heritage, the limestone quarry stands as a historical landmark, inviting visitors to delve into its storied past.
• Rock Garden: Nature’s handiwork takes center stage at the Rock Garden, where unique rock formations create a picturesque backdrop for hikers and off-road enthusiasts.
• Lake Limestone: Serenity awaits at Lake Limestone, where visitors can indulge in fishing, boating, and picnicking amidst stunning vistas and tranquil waters.
• Indian Creek: Meandering through the park, Indian Creek offers a serene sanctuary for nature enthusiasts seeking solace in its gentle currents and verdant surroundings.
• Old Iron Bridge: A relic of days gone by, the Old Iron Bridge adds a touch of nostalgia to the trail system, serving as a reminder of the area’s past.

404 Badge of Honor

As we arrived at Stony Lonesome, we were greeted by a sprawling landscape of rocky trails and breathtaking views. Our first order of business? Conquering the legendary 404 Trail and picking up that first Jeep Badge of Honor for our rig. Unlike your typical hill climb trail, the 404 Trail offered a tree covered scenic ride with its own unique challenges, slick surfaces and daunting obstacles. But with determination and a bit of skill, we navigated our way through, feeling like we were driving a spiral staircase.

Switchback Badge of Honor

Next up was the Switchback Trail, a trail that lives up to its name in every sense of the word. Located near the park’s entrance, this trail greeted us with steep inclines and hairpin turns that tested not only our driving skills but also our mental fortitude. Rated as a 6 on the Jeep Badge of Honor, we maneuvered our Jeeps through the switchbacks, high above Dorsey Creek, we were rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment that only comes from conquering the untamed wilderness.

Gut Buster Badge of Honor

But perhaps the biggest challenge of all awaited us on the Gut Buster Trail. Rated a whopping 8 in difficulty on the Jeep Badge of Honor, this trail was not for the faint of heart. With its consistently wet rock surfaces, massive 5-foot rock ledges, and a daunting 48-degree incline, it had earned a reputation as one of the most challenging trails in the park. Only one Jeep from our crew dared to attempt it, and after a day of winching and perseverance, they emerged victorious—a testament to the sheer grit and determination of Jeep enthusiasts.

As the sun began to set on our epic adventure, we reflected on the challenges we had overcome, the trails we had conquered, and the memories we had made. From the heart-pounding thrills of the 404 Trail to the breathtaking views of the Switchback Trail and the sheer adrenaline of the Gut Buster Trail, our weekend at Stony Lonesome had been nothing short of extraordinary, but it didn’t end there.

Stony Lonesome had so much more than just Jeep Badge of Honor trails to offer. One of the most fun obstacles our Jeepers played on while exploring was a challenge called Lil Moab. Named for its steep rock faces and inclines, the structure and density of this obstacle closely resembles what you would find while wheeling in Moab Utah.