This Is Ohio’s Most Astonishing State Forest 

Fun fact: Ohio is home to about eight million acres of forest, a considerable amount of which is considered old-growth. That said, it's tough to decide where to start for those of us who strongly desire to explore the amazing world around us. I say we start at one of the most beautiful forests in Ohio: Zaleski State Forest. Roughly 31 percent of the state is forest, and Zalesky State Forest is among the most beautiful.

Zaleski State Forest is a jaw-dropping 27,822-acre expanse of paradise, and it's amazingly beautiful. It's Ohio's second-largest state forest, and if you have even a moment of free time, you should consider exploring it. There are numerous trails weaving throughout, and the entire place looks and feels like something you might read about in a sci-fi novel more than a forest in the Midwest.

There are several reasons why this particular state forest is my favorite in the entire state. It's tough to list them all in this short article, but there are definitely a few things I'd like to highlight. I love this place, and it's truly one of the most amazingly beautiful places in the world.

I recommend taking on the epic Selinde Roosenburg Memorial Backpack Trail for anyone seeking a nice, long backpacking adventure. Craving something shorter? No worries - do as much or as little as you like. There's also a 10-mile day loop trail and the Moonville Rail Trail. Take your pick!

Also hiding in these woods is a (free!) shooting range, a working sawmill (you can even purchase lumber from time to time), a grouse and turkey management area, a fire tower, and the Moonville Tunnel, which is a spooky delight. Hunters will appreciate that hunting is seasonally permitted, and campers will love the various campgrounds and opportunities to sleep under the endless stars.

Around every corner, there are more delights, like the 447-acre Waterloo Wildlife Area, a favorite among Midwest wildlife watchers. Tiny streams crisscross through the forest, occasionally turning into small waterfalls. Wearing good footwear for this one is important, shoes you don't mind getting wet. Although potable water is available on the trail, be sure to pack your own, as well - you can never have too much.

For more information about the amazing Zaleski State Forest in Ohio, be sure to visit the official AllTrails page for all things Zaleski. If you find yourself hopelessly obsessed with hiking (same), check out AllTrails Plus; I don't know how on earth I ever hiked before I had it. It's outrageously convenient.

Do you have any favorite forests in Ohio? Tell me about them by filling out our nomination form, and you might just see yours featured someday!