Mohican State Forest Iron Furnace Backcountry Loop

Mohican State Forest preserves the rugged hills where Ohio’s iron industry was born, and this forest road loop connects the scattered remnants of 19th-century blast furnaces hidden in steep ravines. The route follows old logging roads past the crumbling stone foundations of Butler Furnace, built in 1838 to smelt local bog iron ore, before climbing through second-growth hardwood forest to Fire Tower Road. The most technical section drops into Honey Run Valley, where a rough two-track negotiates steep grades and loose shale before emerging at the ruins of Mohican Furnace.

High-clearance 4WD recommended for the full loop, though careful stock SUV drivers can handle most sections in dry conditions. Wet weather turns the shale slopes treacherous, so stick to late spring through early fall for best traction. No permits needed but check for active logging operations that may close sections temporarily. Primitive camping available at designated sites near Pleasant Hill Lake, and the area offers excellent fall foliage viewing from the fire tower overlook.