5 Underrated National Forest Hikes in Ohio That Rival National Parks

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a fantastic park if you’re looking for great trails, scenic views, and a deep history, but it is Ohio’s only national park. If you’ve already thoroughly explored Cuyahoga Valley and are looking for your next destination for adventure, I recommend Wayne National Forest in southeastern Ohio. It covers over a quarter of a million acres of Appalachian foothills that are filled with exciting hikes. If you’re ready to start exploring, here are five trails that I recommend.

1. Archer’s Fork Trail

Archer’s Fork Trail is the longest hike on our list, comprising up to 14 miles of trail. For those who enjoy backpacking, this is a great overnight trip with plenty of campsites, should you choose to venture the entire loop. For those who are just looking for a taste, trekking for a mile or two and turning back is a common alternative. Some of my favorite experiences along the trail were a natural bridge, a giant cave, and huge rock outcroppings that ran across the entire trail. This hike also features frequent changes in elevation, which can be tiring, so be prepared for regular breaks.

2. Paddle Creek Loop

Paddle Creek Loop comes in at a much more manageable length of 3.8 miles. It can take just over 90 minutes to complete and is a fairly easy trail. The trail is also a popular horseback riding route, so you’ll likely run into a few ponies to greet along the way. 

3. Symmes Creek Trail Loop

Symmes Creek Trail is 4.2 miles in length and typically takes about 100 minutes to finish. Because it's a lesser-known trail, you’ll likely get it all to yourself. Following along Symmes Creek, you’ll see rock formations, small waterfalls, and even a boardwalk. Being a more obscure trail, vegetation has crept onto parts of the trail, so I recommend wearing pants to keep off any poison ivy or unwanted ticks. There's a reason that this trial is typically labeled rustic, but don't let that sway you: If you're an adventurer who craves a little extra wilderness this hike is perfect for you.

4. Wayne National Forest Scenic River Loop

The Wayne National Forest Scenic River Loop is a moderately challenging, 9.6-mile trail. It’s another lesser-known hike, so no need to worry about the crowds. Unlike the more rustic Symmes Creek Trail, this hike is very well-maintained. The paths are clear and are surrounded by mossy rock foundations, which look particularly awesome in the early spring. Peaceful, scenic, and free of crowds, this is a great choice for hikers who want solitude without sacrificing trail quality.

5. Kinderhook Trail

The Kinderhook Trail is a 5.5-mile loop of a moderate challenge. It takes about 2.5 hours to complete and is great for birding and mountain biking. I recommend trying to visit sometime in September, as that’s pawpaw season, and there’s a good chance you’ll find some on the trail. Pawpaws are a small, yellow-brown fruit that taste like a cross between a banana and a mango. They can be hard to spot, so keep your eyes peeled.

One important thing I do recommend for all of these trails is downloading the AllTrails maps ahead of time. Some of these hikes contain less signage than other, more popular trails, so it’s important to make sure you know which way you’re going. Check out the AllTrails app for access to maps, curated hiking lists, and information on trails that are near you.

What are your thoughts on these hidden gems? Do you have any other trails that you think deserve more love? Be sure to share them with us.