Your guide to exploring the Buckeye Trail

The Buckeye Trail offers 1,400+ miles of adventure winding through every region of Ohio. Whether you’re exploring a single Section or planning a hike around the state, this is your hub for planning, preparation, navigation, and trail tools.

Day hikes and weekend walks

You don’t need special gear or months of planning to enjoy the Buckeye Trail. Many Sections offer easy access for short hikes, family outings, and peaceful weekend walks.
See why hiking the Buckeye Trail is great for you →

Hike the trail one weekend at a time (full trail completion)

You don’t have to thru-hike to finish the Buckeye Trail. Here’s how to chip away at all 1,400+ miles.
Learn about circuit hiking →

Plan your backpacking journey

Thinking about hiking the Buckeye Trail over multiple days? Access maps, planning tips, and tools to get started.
Learn more about backpacking the trail →

Hiker on the Go

Try these bite-size introductory hikes to get a taste of the Buckeye Trail experience! Hiker on the Go guides are designed for beginners and usually feature a loop trail that includes local attractions as well as a short hike on the Buckeye Trail.
Get your guide →

Explore the trail with these resources

Discover the unique character of each of the 26 trail Sections:
View descriptions, maps, and segment breakdowns.
Explore Sections →

Stop for lunch at a Buckeye Trail Town:
Learn about the communities that welcome and support hikers across the state.
Trail Towns →

Prepare in advance:
Stay current on temporary disruptions, permanent reroutes, and map corrections.
Trail Alerts and Map Updates →

Track your progress:
BTA maps use a system of numbered Points and Segments to help you track your hike over time. Access the BTA’s official maps for trip planning.
Maps →

Wear those miles on your sleeve:
Earn patches and recognition for completing the trail, Sections, Circuit Hikes, or the Little Loop.
Hiking awards →

Practice Leave No Trace:
Respect the land, water, wildlife, and people along the trail. Always pack out what you pack in. Learn how to make a difference with seven simple steps.
Learn about Leave No Trace →

Help keep the trail safe and enjoyable for all:
Tell us about problems on the trail, so our Trail Management Team can address them.
Report a trail problem →

Tips and tricks for hiking the Buckeye Trail

Start off by hiking with others

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Make friends and build memories: join our trail community

Woman hiking near the Buckeye Trail Town of Chardon, Ohio on the Buckeye Trail. Photo by Jill Moorhead.

Become a member

Get involved! By joining the BTA and a local chapter, you’ll be connected to other hikers and stewards of the outdoors, and you’ll help keep the trail open and thriving for all.

Join the BTA

After your hike

Consider sharing photos or stories from your adventure on the Buckeye Trail! Connect with the Buckeye Trail community on social media platforms, and tag your photos so they’re easy to find.

Use these hashtags to help people find your posts: #BuckeyeTrail #FollowtheBlueBlazes #HikeTheBT #BuckeyeTrailAssociation