Name: Shawnee Forest 13 mile hike (strenuous) Part 3 of 4
Start: 2025-02-08T09:30:00-05:00
End: 2025-02-08T15:30:00-05:00

Worried about getting out of shape over the winter? Let's fix that!

This trip will be the third of a series of 4 monthly hikes that include the whole Shawnee State Forest Backpacking Trail, around 13 miles each and focused on conditioning. For this one, we will do a 13 mile day hike on the north loop, starting near Camp 2 and finishing at the trail head parking and registration area along State Route 125. We will attempt to follow the old, original trail as closely as possible. This will increase the difficulty of the hike as the old trail has not been maintained for years. Due to limited parking options near Camp 2 we will leave as many cars as possible at the trail head parking, and shuttle hikers to the starting location.

The plan is to take advantage of the workout potential by going at a fairly fast pace, and getting in some cardio and conditioning for the winter. My definition of fast is an average of 3.0 mph or better moving pace. This hike would be unsuitable for beginners, or those who do not enjoy a physical challenge. You should be comfortable hiking 10+ miles at a fairly brisk pace to participate in this hike.

We go rain or shine. Even freezing rain and snow. If you're experienced enough to come on this hike, you're experienced enough to know what to bring and wear. I'll note that this hike will very easily have you working up a sweat on the hills even though temps are likely to be near freezing or below, so be prepared with the right layers. I'd also advise trekking poles if you have them.

Carpool (39.096061, -84.279267) - Look for the red Pontiac G6 at the far end of the Value City Furniture parking lot in Eastgate at 7:45 am, leaving by 7:55 am.

Directions: We'll meet at the Shawnee State Forest Backpack Trailhead parking lot, where the registration kiosk is. GPS: 38.74159, -83.19745 or Google maps: http://goo.gl/maps/5j9tP Please be prompt at 9:30 am, as we'll need to shuttle vehicles both before and after the hike.

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Shawnee Forest 13 mile hike (strenuous) Part 3 of 4

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Shawnee Forest 13 mile hike (strenuous) Part 3 of 4

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