Shawnee State Forest

Address:  13291 US-52, West Portsmouth, OH 45663

Appropriately named "The Little Smokies"  this massive preserve in Southwestern Ohio encompasses almost 64,000 acres of rugged hills and secluded stream valleys. At the center of the preserve is Shawnee State Park, a 1,000 acre park with a beautiful lake and park lodge.

Trails:
Shawnee Backpacking trail

Length: 36.4 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous

Trail Description: This is the main trail in the park and can take up to 5 days to hike! The trail is split into two loops; the north loop and the south loop. The north loop is 19.6 miles long and the south loop is 26 miles long. There's also a 9.5 mile side trail that takes you deep into the Shawnee Wilderness area.  This is a very difficult trail to hike, and shouldn't be done unless you are in very good shape. Also, the views are very limited when there are leaves on the trees.

Shawnee Day Hike Trail:
Length: 7.2 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trail Description: Unlike Shawnee State forest's other trail, this one can be done if you have a full day to kill. The trail loops through the woods and ascends the ridges via several switchbacks.

Photo by Dave Dotson of Shawnee State Forest

Natural Ohio Adventures