Collie Ridge Loop

Collie Ridge Loop is a 10.7-mile backcountry circuit from Lincoln Trailhead, linking Collie Ridge, a short Buffalo Creek section, Wet Prong, and Blair Springs Hollow. Plan on about four to five hours. The grades are mostly gentle; distance and junctions are the real commitment. Choose it for a long forest walk with creek and hollow views, not for a summit or a big overlook.

From Lincoln, follow Collie Ridge south for about 3.9 miles to the Buffalo Creek junction. Take Buffalo Creek roughly 0.9 mile to Wet Prong, follow Wet Prong about 2.2 miles to Blair Springs Hollow, then climb back to Collie Ridge and return north to Lincoln. The final two miles repeat part of the ridge approach. Some route descriptions give 9.7 miles; this connected line comes to about 10.7 with the Buffalo Creek link and repeated section included, so use the longer figure to plan your day.

Most of the walk stays under hardwood canopy. Collie Ridge undulates gently rather than climbing to a summit, with occasional openings over the creeks and hollows below. Fall color is the clearest seasonal change. Expect a quieter, enclosed forest route more than a string of dramatic viewpoints.

Lincoln Trailhead is on Ollie Ridge Road on the park’s north side. If you are driving from the visitor center side, the Green River Ferry can shorten the trip, but high or low water can stop service; check before setting out or use the road route through Brownsville. Backcountry maps are available at the visitor center and Headquarters Campground kiosk. Dogs are allowed on surface trails on a leash up to six feet, and horses also use backcountry trails, so give riders room. Bring food and drinking water for the full route.