The best walks and hikes in Zaleski State Forest

Yes, dogs are permitted on the hiking trails within Zaleski State Forest, provided they are kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet and be considerate of other trail users and the local wildlife.

Zaleski State Forest is well-known for the Selinde Roosenburg Memorial Backpack Trail, which offers several options for multi-day hikes. The main loop is approximately 28.8 miles, providing a challenging and remote experience. Primitive backpack campsites with a latrine and potable water are available on a first-come, first-served basis along the trail.

Yes, there are several easier options suitable for a family outing. The Lake Hope State Park – Lake Hope loop from Athens is a great choice, offering a relatively flat 4.4-mile (7.2 km) walk around the scenic lake in the adjacent state park.

The trails are generally considered moderately challenging due to the region's rugged Appalachian terrain, with frequent ascents and descents through ridges and hollows. While there are some easier paths, many routes like the Zaleski State Forest loop from Starr involve over 200 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout for most hikers.

Yes, the historic and reputedly haunted Moonville Tunnel is a popular destination. It is accessible via the Moonville Rail Trail, which connects to the main Zaleski backpacking trail system. Hiking to the tunnel allows you to experience a unique piece of local history.

Hiking is possible year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly beautiful. Spring offers a vibrant display of wildflowers, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage across the Appalachian hills. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter may bring snow or ice, so be sure to check conditions and prepare accordingly.

The forest has excellent options for loop hikes that bring you back to your starting point. For a longer day out, consider the Starrett Ridge – Hope Furnace loop from Irish Ridge. This 8.7-mile (14 km) moderate trail takes you through varied woodland scenery and past historic sites.

The routes in Zaleski State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the rugged, rolling terrain that provides a welcome challenge compared to flatter areas of Ohio, as well as the well-marked paths and scenic woodland environment.

While both offer beautiful scenery, they provide different experiences. Hocking Hills is famous for its dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and rock formations, often on more developed and crowded trails. Zaleski State Forest offers a more remote and rugged backpacking experience with longer trails through expansive woodlands, appealing to those seeking solitude and a tougher physical challenge.

The diverse forest habitats support a wide range of wildlife. It's common to see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. The area also has a beaver population, and their dams can sometimes be spotted along the waterways. While black bears are rare, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.

There are several designated parking areas and trailheads throughout the forest. Key access points include the Hope Schoolhouse, which serves as a trailhead for the backpacking trail, and parking areas within the adjacent Lake Hope State Park. The starting points for all komoot Tours have designated parking available.