Columbus: Zaleski Backpack Trail (South Loop)
This 11.7-mile loop is loaded with backcountry treats: an old mining town, Indian ceremonial grounds, abandoned roads, stellar ridgeline views, and several designated campsites.
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Trail Facts
- Distance: 16.7
Waypoints
ZBT001
Location: 39.3313522338867, -82.3399047851562
Hike S from parking lot to bridge crossing the creek
ZBT002
Location: 39.3309860229492, -82.3396453857422
Bear L at the intersection with Olds Hollow Trail
ZBT003
Location: 39.3310317993164, -82.3340454101562
Follow the orange blazes to the L and up a small hill
ZBT004
Location: 39.3332252502441, -82.3320465087891
This is where the trail will loop back to in 10.7 miles; Turn R up the hill
ZBT005
Location: 39.3253784179688, -82.3194351196289
First camp site on the Zaleski backpack trail; fire rings and privy
ZBT006
Location: 39.3182487487793, -82.3188095092774
Section of the Marietta-Chillicothe Rd., abandoned in 1870
ZBT007
Location: 39.3094596862793, -82.3117599487305
Scenic rocky outcropping looking down into the valley
ZBT008
Location: 39.3117408752441, -82.3008575439453
Remains of an old mining town, Ingham Station; Head L up steep climb
ZBT009
Location: 39.3154563903809, -82.2995986938476
Another scenic view with green pastureland in the distance
ZBT010
Location: 39.3207893371582, -82.3079223632812
Small, donut-shaped mound is ceremonial ring built by Adena Indians
ZBT011
Location: 39.3222885131836, -82.2969665527344
Nice campsite on a ridge
ZBT012
Location: 39.3257637023926, -82.2995910644531
Cross over Tar Hollow Rd.
ZBT013
Location: 39.3305549621582, -82.3167037963867
Enter turkey management area
ZBT014
Location: 39.337028503418, -82.3268585205078
Leave main trail to head back to trailhead on short spur
