Zaleski Backpack Trail: Ohio's Premier Overnight Hike

If you want to disappear into the Ohio woods for a night or three, the Zaleski Backpack Trail is the state's definitive overnight hiking experience. Thirty miles of orange-blazed trail wind through 27,000 acres of Ohio's second-largest state forest, passing through terrain that feels closer to Appalachian wilderness than anything else within 90 minutes of Columbus.

Three Loops, One Trail

The trail divides into three contiguous loops that can be hiked individually or combined:

South Loop (~10.5 miles): The most popular and most accessible section. Rolling terrain through mixed hardwood forest with two reliable water sources. This is the loop most weekend backpackers choose for a single-night trip — hike in Saturday morning, camp at the South Camp, hike out Sunday.

Middle Loop: Connects the South and North loops with more elevation change and fewer visitors. The terrain transitions from lowland stream valleys to ridge-top forest.

North Loop (~6.8 miles): The shortest loop but arguably the most scenic. Includes the Hewett Fork overlook — the trail's best viewpoint — and passes near the Doolittle Plantation, Ohio's oldest professional forestry site, dating to 1906.

The complete trail totals 29.1 miles. Strong hikers can complete the full circuit in two days with one overnight camp. A more relaxed three-day pace using all three primitive campsites is recommended for most backpackers.

Primitive Campsites

Three designated backcountry campsites are spaced along the trail, each featuring pit latrines, fire rings, and cleared tent pads. There are no shelters, no potable water, no electricity, and no cell service. You must carry everything you need, including water treatment (filter or purification tablets — stream water requires treatment).

A free self-registration permit is required. Register at the trailhead kiosk before starting your hike. No advance reservation is necessary. There is no capacity limit, but campsites can get crowded on popular fall weekends.

What to Bring

Zaleski is a genuine backcountry experience in a state not known for them. Essential gear: tent or hammock with rain fly, sleeping bag rated to the season (winter lows can drop below 15°F), sleeping pad, water filter or purification, headlamp, first-aid kit, map (do not rely on phone GPS — there is no cell service), fire-starting supplies, rain gear, and all food for your trip. Trekking poles are strongly recommended — the trail includes stream crossings and slippery descents on Black Hand sandstone.

The trail is orange-blazed throughout. Junctions are marked but can be missed in low light. Carry a printed map of the trail system — available at the trailhead kiosk and downloadable from ODNR's website.

Seasonal Considerations

Fall (October–November): The best season. Cool temperatures, spectacular color, and lower humidity. However, hunting season overlaps — wear blaze orange during deer gun season (typically the first week of December) and turkey season. The forest is actively managed for hunting.

Spring (April–May): Wildflowers and spring ephemeral streams. Mud can be severe, especially on the South Loop. Ticks are active — check frequently and treat clothing with permethrin.

Summer: Hot and humid with dense undergrowth. Mosquitoes and ticks are aggressive. Water sources may diminish in dry periods.

Winter: Dramatic solitude — you may see no other hikers for the entire trip. Frozen streams and snow-covered ridges create a different landscape. Requires cold-weather gear and experience. Days are short — plan mileage accordingly.

Beyond the Backpack Trail

Zaleski State Forest also offers 50+ miles of bridle trails for horseback riding and mountain biking on designated routes. The Moonville Tunnel Rail Trail passes through the forest's southern reaches — a flat, easy 10-mile trail perfect for a recovery day after the backpack trail. Lake Hope State Park, entirely within the forest, provides cabin and lodge lodging if you want a comfortable base for day hikes into the backcountry.