The Pacific Northwest may be known for its ancient forests, but did you know that Ohio is home to some marvelous old-growth forests, too? Hiding in Northeast Ohio you’ll find Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve. This beautiful expanse in Marshallville is not only a criminally overlooked gem, but it’s also home to an old-growth forest in Ohio worth seeking out.

There are only about a dozen old-growth forests in the entire Buckeye State, making our rare few all the more thrilling to discover.
Ohio DNR
Even better? What Ohio has that the PNW doesn't, however, is an old-growth forest that's a wholly accessible hidden gem.
Jerry Cosyn/Google Local
Welcome to Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve, a 200-acre expanse in northeastern Ohio that's home to some of the oldest trees in the state.
Ohio DNR
Surrounded by rolling fields of corn and soybeans, picturesque farmsteads, and suburban neighborhoods, Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve is an incredible treasure about which even the most intrepid Ohio explorers don't know.
David Moroney/Google Local

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It's worth seeking out, however -- and not just for its glorious trees! This state preserve is teeming with flora and fauna, and with its all-boardwalk trail system, it's an accessible and inviting place that's easy to explore.
Ohio DNR
The 1.4-mile boardwalk trail is wheelchair friendly, offering visitors the opportunity to literally immerse themselves in the forest canopy.
David Moroney/Google Local
Please note: pets are not permitted at Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve.
Some of the trees have grown to be 120 feet tall with a diameter of four to five feet. Most of them are 400-years-old, making them among the oldest trees in Ohio.
Jerry Cosyn/Google Local
The opportunity to walk among ancient, real-life giants in Ohio truly is something you shouldn’t pass up. While the nature preserve is open year-round, autumn is an especially sublime time to visit Johnson Woods. The bold foliage set against the stark tree trunks and sprawling limbs... wow!
Jerry Cosyn/Google Local
Ohio is a beautiful state that never fails to take our breath away. Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve is a glorious place that's sure to do just that... because being in the presence of such commanding giants never gets (ahem) old!
Vanessa Scaffidi/Google Local

Have you been to this ancient forest in Ohio before? If you’ve yet to visit Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve, make a point to do so and be prepared for a dazzling experience.

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Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve, 13240 Fox Lake Rd, Marshallville, OH 44645, USA