The best traffic-free bike rides in Zaleski State Forest
5.0
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66
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Zaleski State Forest traverse the rugged foothills of Ohio's Appalachian Mountains, offering diverse landscapes for cyclists. The region is characterized by steep gorges, narrow ridges, and dense woodlands, primarily oak-hickory forests. Many public forest roads are gravel, winding through hills and valleys, providing a backcountry feel for touring cyclists. This terrain includes historic sites and offers a moderately challenging environment for those equipped with gravel or hybrid bikes.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Zaleski State Forest
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Furnace Ridge loop from Lake Hope State Park, a 22.6 miles (36.4 km) trail that takes 3 hours 27 minutes to complete. This difficult route explores the forested terrain around Lake Hope.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Bike loop from Nelsonville, a moderate 22.7 miles (36.5 km) path. This route offers varied scenery with a mix of paved and gravel sections.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway – Chandlers Hill loop from Doanville, a 36.0 miles (58.0 km) trail leading through varied landscapes including sections of the rail trail, often completed in about 3 hours 25 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Zaleski State Forest is defined by dense woodlands, winding gravel roads, and historic rail trails, with options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Zaleski State Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 60 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Zaleski State Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
5
riders
36.4km
03:27
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
riders
36.5km
02:09
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
40
riders
58.0km
03:25
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
73.8km
05:16
980m
980m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Zaleski State Forest
Tips from the Community
College Green in Athens, Ohio, holds rich historical significance as the heart of Ohio University's campus, established in 1804. Cyclists are drawn to its vibrant atmosphere, lush greenery, and iconic buildings such as Cutler Hall. It offers a serene respite, ideal for relaxing amidst collegiate charm and architectural beauty.
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The Ohio County Courthouse, located in Wheeling, West Virginia, dates back to 1846. It replaced the previous courthouse, which burned down in 1845. Renowned architect Charles Ellet Jr. designed the current Greek Revival-style courthouse, which has been a prominent fixture in the city's history and continues to serve as a symbol of justice and civic pride.
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This section of the bikeway runs through a section of deciduous trees and grassland, immersing you in the sounds and scenes of nature as you cycle through. Keep your eye out for the varied birdlife that inhabits the trees.
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This lovely stretch of bikeway runs along the Hocking River, with good views down the river and across to the other side. Take care to be courteous of other cyclists and walkers on the path.
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The Holler Collar Trail is a circular trail around Utah Pond. It is mostly single track and not too challenging of a path. Hikers and trail runners can also use the path, so make sure to keep an eye out for other users.
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The Thrillium Trail section has wonderful forested vistas and is a good place to spot one of the region's harbingers of Spring; the trillium flower.
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The Underground Trail features a series of short climbs and descents through lush deciduous forests.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic touring cycling routes in Zaleski State Forest?
Zaleski State Forest offers a mix of gravel forest roads and rail trails. While the Moonville Rail Trail provides a relatively flat grade, many public forest roads are gravel, winding, and can be steep, particularly in the rugged Appalachian foothills. Expect varied surfaces, some potentially rough or muddy after rain, making them ideal for gravel or hybrid bikes.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes in Zaleski State Forest?
The Moonville Rail Trail, with its mostly flat grade, is generally considered a good option for families, though some sections can be primitive or have potholes. For a moderate loop, consider the Bike loop from Nelsonville, which covers about 36 km.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along these routes?
Along the Moonville Rail Trail, you can explore the historic and reportedly haunted Moonville Tunnel and King's Hollow Tunnel. Lake Hope State Park is also nestled within the forest, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. Lookout Rock provides panoramic vistas, especially outside of peak foliage.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic touring cycling in Zaleski State Forest?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring brings lush greenery, while fall showcases vibrant colors. Summers can be warm and humid, and some gravel roads may become muddy after heavy rains, particularly in spring or late fall.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes in the forest?
Yes, Zaleski State Forest offers routes with significant elevation changes. For a challenging experience, consider the Furnace Ridge loop from Lake Hope State Park, which features over 550 meters of elevation gain over 36 km. Another demanding option is the Utah Pond – The Underground Trail loop from Chauncey, covering 74 km with nearly 1000 meters of ascent.
Where can I find maps of the forest roads suitable for cycling?
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources provides maps of Zaleski State Forest, which can help identify public forest roads. You can often find a detailed map on the official Ohio DNR website: Zaleski State Forest Map.
Are there any loop routes available for touring cyclists?
Yes, several loop routes are available. The Furnace Ridge loop from Lake Hope State Park and the Bike loop from Nelsonville are both excellent options for circular rides, allowing you to start and end at the same point.
What kind of bike is best suited for these no-traffic routes?
Given the prevalence of gravel forest roads and the varied surface quality of the Moonville Rail Trail, a gravel bike or a hybrid bike with wider, more robust tires is highly recommended. These bikes offer the necessary comfort and durability for the rugged terrain.
What should I be aware of regarding cell service in Zaleski State Forest?
Cell service can be limited or non-existent in more remote areas of Zaleski State Forest. It's advisable to download offline maps, inform someone of your route, and carry essential repair tools and supplies, as you may be self-sufficient for extended periods.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about Zaleski State Forest?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Zaleski State Forest, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, backcountry feel of the gravel roads, the historical points of interest like the old tunnels, and the continuous forested scenery that provides a true escape from traffic.
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