Stretching 40 miles through Ohio’s rugged hill country, the Grandma Gatewood Trail invites hikers to experience a section of the famed Buckeye Trail with a quietly fierce character. Named after Emma "Grandma" Gatewood—the first woman to solo hike the Appalachian Trail—this trail honors grit in every step. It winds through dense forests where ancient oaks stand guard, streams that challenge your footing with tentative whispers, and ridges that push vistas into your view like a reward for moving forward.

Starting near the quaint town of Ripley, Ohio, the trail slips between the banks of the Ohio River and the wild expanse of Wayne National Forest. You’ll negotiate a mix of narrow single track and gentle gravel roads, with elevation gains totaling roughly 2,200 feet spread across rolling hills. The terrain shifts constantly—rocky outcrops demanding steady footing, patches of soft leaf litter begging for a quiet moment, and open ridges where the wind dares to test your balance.

Prepare for the trail as much as you prepare for the adventure. Good footwear with reliable tread is non-negotiable; the trail’s rocky sections can be unforgiving. Hydration is critical—water sources are sparse outside of seasonal creeks, so carry at least two liters and a way to purify natural water if you plan longer stretches. Timing your hike in spring or fall ensures moderate temperatures, though unpredictable Ohio weather means layers are a must.

The trail unfolds as a conversation with nature, each step measured against the pulse of a forest that is fiercely itself. Birds dart like bright punctuation among the branches, the river occasionally hums a restless challenge, and the wind carries the scent of earth and rain. Find moments to pause—not just for breath, but to acknowledge the old and wild rhythm of this land.

The Grandma Gatewood Trail is more than a route; it’s a practical adventure built on endurance and respect. Whether you cover it in sections or tackle it over a few days, your preparation will set the tone. Plan for rugged solitude, some navigational care, and the simple satisfaction of walking a path made famous by an extraordinary woman who valued the land’s raw honesty.

In its simplicity and toughness, the trail offers a genuine slice of Ohio’s outdoor spirit—approachable yet demanding, inviting yet real. Every mile is a reminder that adventure isn’t about conquering the trail, but moving with it on its own terms.