Explore more than 60 miles of hiking trails that wind through Shawnee State Park's rolling hills, wooded valleys, and scenic overlooks in the heart of Ohio's Appalachian foothills. For those looking for two-wheeled adventure, the park also offers miles of mountain biking trails that showcase the same rugged beauty from a different perspective.
Lace up your boots and hit the trail. Shawnee State Park's diverse hiking system leads adventurers through some of Ohio's most dramatic landscapes, including forested hills, remote hollows, and panoramic viewpoints. Every trail offers a new perspective on the natural beauty that makes Shawnee a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking Map
Explore Shawnee's mountain biking trail system, featuring scenic rides for a variety of skill levels. Visit Trailforks for maps and details.
Mountain Bike Map1.5 miles, takes hikers through an oak hickory forest on high dry ridgetops. It is also used by mountain bikers and disc golfers for a short section, but hikers have the right of way. The trailhead is conveniently located at the end of the lodge parking lot near the fork in the road leading to the cabins. Follow the purple triangles.
0.8 mile, provides excellent views of Turkey Creek Lake and is part of the Park Loop trail. A bench along the trail offers a lovely view into Slate Hollow where a beavers lodge can be seen along the Park Loop trail. The trail can be accessed from the Nature Center or the Back Pack Trail parking lots. Follow the aquamarine triangles.
0.5 mile, trail leads to the beach from the lodge and includes a steep grade—both ways, up or down. Follow the florescent green triangles.
2.9 miles, named for local mycologist, Harry Knighton, who started the North American Mycological Society. It supports a rich abundance of mushroom species and wildflowers. Features views of Turkey Creek Lake from the lowest point in the park to the highest point. Follow the red triangles.
0.5 mile loop, covered in crushed gravel so it is family-, wheelchair-, and stroller-friendly. Visitors will enjoy views of Turkey Creek as they travel through cool moist hemlock trees. Interpretive signs tell the life history of trees along the path. Follow the bright green triangles.
5 miles, trail showcases a variety of ecosystems and connects to other trails. It looks around Turkey Creek Lake and includes the park’s highest peaks. (Shawnee is home to the docile endangered Timber Rattlesnake. If you encounter one along the trail, simply walk around it, leaving plenty of space between you and the animal.) Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and pack water and snacks. Follow the blue triangles.
1.5 miles, historic trail built in 1938 by CCC, traverses through a diverse forest with beautiful view of Roosevelt Lake and the original Theodore Roosevelt Game Preserve founded in 1922, which is now the campground. The trail is a loop with one steep climb and one steep descent, either way. Follow the hot pink triangles.
0.5 mile, paved trail is perfect for families with small children. It starts in the small loop of the campground and ends in the large loop of the campground. It also takes in part of the Park Loop Trail and the Harry Knighton Trail. Follow the coral triangles.
Access state trail maps and important information regarding state parks, wildlife areas, forests, and nature preserves when you join the OuterSpatial Ohio Community. You can download the app today to explore Ohio Trails+
Get the App