Zaleski State Forest
The Adventure…
Zaleski is Ohio’s second largest state forest, covering 28,000 acres. The forest is a unique blend of stunning beauty and history. The forest is characterized by deep ravines and ridge tops. Beautiful sandstone outcroppings and overhangs can be found throughout the park. The forest provides habitat for a variety of wildlife including a number of threatened/endangered plants and animals while providing a majestic backdrop for a variety of recreational pursuits. Twenty-five miles of hiking trails meander though the forest. The trails are of varying lengths and difficulty levels. The forest is also home to 50 miles of bridle/hiking trail and a 25-mile backpacking trail. Throughout the 1800s, the region supported one of the nation’s largest iron ore industries. The iron was mined and then smelted at charcoal furnaces. Much of the region’s legacy is still visible today. One such remnant is the Hope Furnace located in adjacent Lake Hope State Park. Another remnant of the bygone era is the Moonville Tunnel. Built in 1850s, the tunnel is considered to be one of the nation’s most haunted places.
Learn More…
State Route 278
PO Box 330
Zaleski, Ohio 45698
740.596.5781
614.265.6694
Website: Zaleski State Forest
Getting There’s Half the Adventure…
Zaleski State Forest is located along the border of Vinton and Athens Counties. The forest is best accessed from US Route 50, which runs along the southern end of the park. From US 50, turn onto State Route 278 in Prattsville. State Route 278 goes through the center of the park and passes several points of interest including the Hope Furnace, trail heads, and the Forest Headquarters. Parking areas are also located along 278.
Click HERE to View the Map
Nearby Adventures…
Art & Culture
The Art Barn – New Plymouth, Vinton County
Stuart’s Opera House – Nelsonville, Athens County
Nelsonville Historic Square Arts District – Nelsonville, Athens County
Kennedy Museum of Art – Athens, Athens County
Ohio University’s Performing Arts – Athens, Athens County
The Dairy Barn Arts Center – Athens, Athens County
Markay Arts Center – Jackson, Jackson CountyHistoric Sites & Places
Hope Furnace – Lake Hope State Park, Vinton County
Vinton Iron Furnace – McArthur, Vinton County
Robbins Crossing – Nelsonville, Athens County
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway and Museum – Nelsonville, Athens County
Athens County Historical Society and Museum – Athens, Athens CountyParks, Forests, & Outdoor Activities
Lake Hope State Park – Vinton County
Waterloo Wildlife Area – Athens County
Buckeye Trail (Old Man’s Cave Section) – Vinton County
Wayne National Forest – Vinton and Athens Counties
Wellston Wildlife Area – Vinton County
Lake Alma State Park – Vinton and Jackson Counties
Tar Hollow State Park – Vinton County
Fox Lake Wildlife Area – Athens County
Richland Furnace State Forest – Jackson County
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