Zaleski Backpack Trail
The Adventure…
The Zaleski Backpack Trail is one of the state's most--if not the most--popular overnight hiking destinations. The main trail is a 23.9-mile long with several smaller day hikes options. This scenic trail passes by many points of biological, geological and historical interest. The trail winds through some of Southeast Ohio’s most scenic forest. Hikers will see beautiful sandstone outcroppings and overhangs, meandering streams, deep ravines, and towering ridge tops. The area is rich in history as well. Hikers will follow old roads once used by Native Americans and early settlers. They will see remnants of 19th century coal mining towns and donut shaped Native American mounds that were built by the Adena Culture more than 2000 years ago. Whether you hike the whole 23.9-miles of chose to take one of the shorter day hikes, you will be sure to feel many miles away for the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Hiking time: Approximately 4 to 6 hours each for the south and middle loops, 3 to 4 hours for the north loop, or up to 3 days for all loops in one trip
Learn More…
State Route 278
PO Box 330
Zaleski, Ohio 45698
740.596.5781
614.265.6694
Website: Zaleski State Forest
Getting there’s Half the Adventure…
The trail head start in Hope Lake State Park just off of State Route 278.
Click HERE to View the Map
Nearby Adventures…
Art & Culture
The Art Barn – New Plymouth, Vinton County
Stuart’s Opera House – Nelsonville, Athens County
Nelsonville Historic Square Arts District – Nelsonville, Athens County
Kennedy Museum of Art – Athens, Athens County
Ohio University’s Performing Arts – Athens, Athens County
The Dairy Barn Arts Center – Athens, Athens County
Markay Arts Center – Jackson, Jackson CountyHistoric Sites & Places
Hope Furnace – Lake Hope State Park, Vinton County
Vinton Iron Furnace – McArthur, Vinton County
Robbins Crossing – Nelsonville, Athens County
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway and Museum – Nelsonville, Athens County
Athens County Historical Society and Museum – Athens, Athens CountyParks, Forests, & Outdoor Activities
Lake Hope State Park – Vinton County
Waterloo Wildlife Area – Athens County
Buckeye Trail (Old Man’s Cave Section) – Vinton County
Wayne National Forest – Vinton and Athens Counties
Wellston Wildlife Area – Vinton County
Lake Alma State Park – Vinton and Jackson Counties
Tar Hollow State Park – Vinton County
Fox Lake Wildlife Area – Athens County
Richland Furnace State Forest – Jackson County
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