Zaleski State Forest Moonville Rail-Trail Connection

Following portions of the old Marietta & Cincinnati Railroad through Zaleski’s 28,000 acres, this route connects the ghost settlements of Moonville, Mineral, and Hope Furnace via maintained forest roads and abandoned rail grades. The highlight is the restored Moonville Tunnel, where the 1856 brick structure echoes with stories of train wrecks and the headless brakeman who supposedly still walks the tracks. Forest Road 6 challenges drivers with seasonal creek crossings and steep grades climbing out of Raccoon Creek valley toward the fire tower overlooks.

Easy to moderate difficulty suits stock high-clearance vehicles, though mud holes after rain can trap the unprepared. Spring through fall offers the best conditions, with fall colors making this one of Ohio’s most scenic forest drives. Dispersed camping is permitted throughout the forest with a free permit. The 16-mile loop provides a perfect introduction to Ohio overlanding, where you can camp beside babbling creeks and wake up to wild turkey calls in country that feels worlds away from Cincinnati’s suburbs just two hours north.