Great Seal State Park

Nestled in the rolling Appalachian foothills of Ross County, Ohio, Great Seal State Park takes its name from the state’s official emblem — the rising sun over Mount Logan, which sits within the park’s 1,864 acres. That connection to Ohio’s identity makes this park feel significant the moment you arrive, and the landscape lives up to it.

The park is best known for its rugged trail system, offering over 20 miles of hiking paths that wind through dense hardwood forests and climb to rocky ridgelines with sweeping views of the Scioto River Valley. The Sugarloaf Mountain Trail rewards hikers with one of the finest panoramas in southern Ohio, while Shawnee Ridge and Mount Ives trails provide challenging terrain for experienced trekkers. Mountain biking and horseback riding share several of these trails, making it a versatile destination for different types of adventurers.

Spring brings wildflower displays across the forest floor — trillium, bloodroot, and Virginia bluebells carpet the hillsides from April through May. Fall delivers equally striking color as the hardwood canopy turns, typically peaking in mid-October. Summer hiking can be warm and humid, so early morning starts are wise.

Wildlife watchers will find white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and a variety of songbirds throughout the park. The relatively low foot traffic compared to Ohio’s more popular state parks means quieter trails and better chances of spotting wildlife.

Great Seal is a day-use park, so plan accommodations in nearby Chillicothe, which offers dining and lodging just minutes away.

Explore Nearby

• Hocking Hills Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Ohio
• Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Ohio
• Wayne National Forest — National Forest in Ohio
• Bennett’s Mill Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky
• Cabin Creek Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky