Zaleski State Forest
Zaleski State Forest is an easy 35+ miles off-road trail near Zaleski, OH, best run April - November. No gear is marked required; All-terrain tires, 4WD helpful and Basic kit are recommended. A stock high-clearance 4x4 can run it; check the gear list before you go.
Trail Conditions
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Zaleski State Forest is southeastern Ohio's peaceful retreat, offering gentle forest roads through rolling Appalachian foothills covered in mixed hardwood forest. Historic charcoal furnaces from Ohio's iron-making era dot the landscape, adding cultural richness to scenic forest driving. The easy terrain makes this an excellent choice for beginning overlanders or those seeking a quiet escape from Ohio's urban centers.
Fun Facts
Zaleski State Forest contains remnants of charcoal iron furnaces from Ohio's 1800s iron industry.
Hope Furnace, in the forest, produced iron for Union troops during the Civil War.
The 26-mile Zaleski Backpack Trail is one of Ohio's premier multi-day hiking routes.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
Closest campgrounds to Zaleski State Forest:
- Buckeye Ridge Camp · Logan · 16 mi (straight-line)
- Sycamore Bend Camp · Logan · 16 mi (straight-line)
Straight-line distance. Check the map for drive time.
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Zaleski, OH
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Stock rigs can usually run this trail, but the right tire size and fitment make it more enjoyable.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Verify your stock tires meet minimum clearance for this trail.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Ensure any wheel upgrade clears your factory suspension.