Backpack Trail is a 12 mile hike maintained for foot traffic only. Blazes are red-orange slashes. Hikers wind through diverse landscape of field, forest, and swamp located south of East Fork Lake. The undulated trail crosses several creekbeds including a deep ravine. Picnic areas, beach, and boat launch areas are bypassed. Side trails at East Fork are blazed in white, including those trails leading to overnight spots. Campsites are equipped with fire rings and pit latrines. Drinking water is also available along the trail. This lengthy trek offers access to the blue-blazed Buckeye Trail - North Country National Scenic Trail. East Fork State Park offers four primitive backpack sites. Permits for their use are available through the park office.

Directions: From Bethel, OH, Travel west on State Route 125 for 3.7 miles. Bear right on Bantam Road. Continue through the small burg turning right (north) at the park entrance. After entering the park, a large lot about a quarter-mile down on the left provides trailhead access.

Elevation: 800 feet

Distance: 12 miles

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

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