Backpack Trail (Orange)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Spring · Swimming · Views · Wildlife

Orange blazes mark the backpacking loop, blue blazes mark the day running trails, and white blazes mark the side trails.

This backpacking trail offers some spectacular views (looking out near camp 5 is one of the best), lots of hills and enough challenge to make for a introduction to the wilderness experience. There are seven backcountry campsites (and one special permitted area) that allow for camping in an otherwise protected area.

The DNR hauls water seasonally (don't expect it in winter if the roads are bad) along the intersections of FSR6 just before camp1, at FSR14 near camp 2, Rt 125 near camp 3, FSR1 near camp 4, at Camp 5, at the side trail (white blazes) off camp 7 near Upper Twin Creek - Rocky Fork Rd. While there is no water at 6, bring your own filter as there is always water in the nearby East Fork Creek.

While on this trail you'll see some of the finest DNR managed lands in the state, the hardwoods are maturing, and the stands of pine are lovely to see. The trails are fairly well maintained during summer and mostly wide singletrack, they take you through what is called the "Little Smokies of Ohio". With a good bit of fire in your belly you can knock this trail out in 3 days but most take 5 or more. For those of us who can't spend an entire week in the woods, you can knock off the north loop or the south loop in a couple days each.

Expect a little bit of everything here, water crossings, steep ascents, ridge top flats and enough peace and quiet to reconnect you to the Earth.

Deer, Squirrel, Woodpeckers, Turkey and if you are really lucky, a black bear.