Ohio is home to some beautiful state forests. They’re some of the most serene places in the state. Surrounded by beautiful nature, you can hear yourself think. (Be sure to check out this forest trail in Ohio that features 400-year-old trees.) State forest trails also give you the opportunity to tap into your adventurous side. If you’ve yet to hike the South Loop Trail at Zaleski State Forest, it’s the perfect trail to take with a group of friends when you have a full day to explore or a weekend free to camp overnight. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique rock formations, beautiful wooded areas and even a piece of history or two.

Rated as moderate, this lengthy loop trail is approximately 11.3 miles long. If you plan to hike more than a portion of the trail, you'll likely need to camp overnight in the designated camping areas.
Cameron Schambre/AllTrails
Note: Parking for the South Loop of the Zaleski Trail is about 50 yards from the trailhead, across from Hope Furnace. If you plan to spend the night on the trail, overnight parking is available at the Hope Schoolhouse on Wheelabout Road.
Hope Furnace is a historic iron furnace that dates back to 1854. You'll want to stop and read about its interesting part in Ohio's story before you begin your journey. (FYI: It's rumored to be haunted.)
Eric Johnson/AllTrails
If you'd like to take a shorter hike through this area of southeast Ohio, you can hike the 5.7-mile out and back Hope Furnace Trail, which features beautiful views of Lake Hope.
The South Loop Trail winds its way through the enchanting Zaleski State Forest, circling King-Hollow Trail.
James Stangle/AllTrails
Click here to view a map of the Zaleski State Forest Backpack Trails and take note of where the campgrounds are located.

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The unusual rock formations and remnants of Ohio's coal mining days are especially intriguing to explore. At times, you feel as if you're hiking back in time.
James Stangle/AllTrails
The main trail is marked with orange blazes and side trails are marked in white.
About halfway through, you'll stumble upon a clearing and a beautiful pond. It's a great place to stop and take in the view.
Jonathan DeVowe/AllTrails
Note: A self registration permit is required for all hikers. Be sure to fill out the form at the trailhead, place it in the box and keep the stub with you.
If you have the endurance and sense of adventure to complete the South Loop Trail, you'll leave with a new appreciate for nature and the beauty of southeast Ohio.
Zachary Forster/AllTrails
For more information about this trail and tips for hiking it, click here.

Have you ever hiked the South Loop Trail before at Zaleski State Forest? If so, we want to know what your experience was like. Share your tips, photos and thoughts with us!

For more beautiful forest trails to explore in Ohio, check out our previous article: Hike This Ancient Forest In Ohio That’s Home To 400-Year-Old Trees.

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Zaleski State Forest Backpack Trailhead Parking, 27331 OH-278, McArthur, OH 45651, USA