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.
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.
Wear those miles on your sleeve
Earn patches and recognition for completing the trail, Sections, Circuit Hikes, or the Little Loop.
Stop for lunch at a Buckeye Trail Town
Learn about the communities that welcome and support hikers across the state.
Help keep the trail safe and enjoyable for all
Tell us about problems on the trail, so our Trail Management Team can address them.
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.
Tips and tricks for hiking the Buckeye Trail
Start off by hiking with others
Biggest Day Hike 2026 Registration Open
Make friends and build memories: join our trail community
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.
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
