Wayne National Forest
Wayne National Forest is Ohio's answer to the Hoosier - rolling hills, hardwood forests, and legitimate backcountry. The covered bridge trail near Hune Bridge is postcard-perfect. The Wildcat Hollow section has great ridge walking. What I like about Wayne is it feels remote without being intimidating. The trails are well-maintained, the forest is dense and beautiful, and you're far enough from highways that the silence is real. This is solid, honest backpacking that teaches the fundamentals without drama. It's close enough for easy logistics, affordable, and delivers exactly what Tier 1 should: confidence in the backcountry, skills under your belt, and hunger for bigger trips.
- Ohio's only national forest
- Covered bridge trail
- Rolling hills terrain
- ✓Completed Orientation Challenge
- ✓Passed fitness test
⭐ Potential: This trip is ready to go and could replace or supplement scheduled trips with minimal planning.
All logistics, costs, and prerequisites are well-defined. Ready to schedule when needed.