zaleski state forest

First I have to say, as a first time backpacker I would rate this trail as an intermediate trail, NOT a beginner trail. Beginner insinuates easy, although this wasn't extremely hard, it was definitely not easy.It is full of ups and downs, some sections straight up with little footholds. The trails are very lush and narrow. Absolutely a beautiful trail with deep dense forest. Outstanding flora!I am an avid hiker with years of experience hiking all over the US, and hiking some strenuous trails, including rim to rim in the grand canyon in one day. I do not think this is a beginner backpacker trail. But worth it and very doable for beginners as long as they have more accurate expectations. Hiking 6 miles may not seem like much, hiking 6 miles with 30 lbs strapped to your back becomes an entirely different experience.

Plenty of hiking trails and primitive camps. Zaleski is enjoyable year around. If your looking for pleasant Class 1 hiking then consider Zaleski.

I am a born and raised Ohio proud. I have hiked and backpacked hundreds of miles of trails all over the US. When I want to get away from C-Bus, I head to Zaleski to backpack their awesome trail system. One huge reason I continually have hiked Zaleski are good, consistent water sources at the camps. I have hiked Zaleski in all four seasons, and only had one pump issue. One thing though, the last two trips out there has been a detour in the first leg of the hike. Unexpected and sucks. Otherwise, an excellent time. Don't underestimate it! It isn't car camping folks.

Originally we attended a wedding party at the large restaurant located in the park. It was very beautiful and food was excellent. This was a few years ago.

This hike is easy and fun. We got there in the afternoon on a Saturday. There is a nice parking area and maps available at the trail head. There are two camping spots if you prefer to break up the hike over more days. There is water available at both, which is very convenient. The terrain is fairly easy, but there are hills. A great adventure for those looking to get their feet wet with backpacking.

We were in the area as a group and enjoyed a beautiful 70 degree day in January:) The forest is beautiful!

Zaleski is entwined among Hocking Hills State Park, Lake Hope State Park, and Wayne National Forest. Although not as commercial as these places, Zaleski's trails are well marked, follow interesting routes with some hidden gem rockface, etc., and at some points connects with the Buckeye Trail, making it easy to do a 2 or 3 day trek. A few nice camping spots with potable water lie on a few of the more popular trails, which is always welcome. Registration at the trail head is expected, if not required.

We detoured through this area after a stay in Jackson and spent the better part of a day driving the back roads for some summer birding. The scenery and the birding were great. A midday stop at the Lake Hope State Park boathouse was a nice surprise … we had absolutely great burgers, cooked to order and topped with grilled onions. We’ll plan to go back in the spring for more birding and burgers.

I live right in the middle of Zaleski State Forrest and it is beautiful. It is Nature at its BEST!!! I would like to see it beter preserved. The state has been logging some of it and that clear cutting is not a good thing. It leaves the land bare and it washes. Besides looking awfjul.

This was my third trip to Zaleski State Forest. We visited the shooting range on this occasion and had a great time. Remember to take targets and something to hang them with.Try driving the forest roads and hitting the trails. My favorite is walking the old RR tracks to Moonville Tunnel! Next time I think we will try the backpacking trail.At certain times of the year, Lake Hope, which lies within the forest, you can stop by the nature center to hand-feed hummingbirds!There is a large variety of landscape types and activities to choose from, making this a nice destination if you want to get away from more crowded state parks and forests.