Vesuvius Backpack Trail
~2 days · 16.1 mi · moderate · Loop
Quick facts
What the Vesuvius Backpack Trail is known for
The Vesuvius Backpack Trail is a 17-mile loop through the ridges and hardwood forest around Lake Vesuvius in Wayne National Forest, southern Ohio, with connections to the shorter Lakeshore Trail for variations. Dispersed camping is allowed in the national forest outside the developed recreation area, and the loop suits one night out.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 1,969 ft to 3,153 ft over 16.1 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 6.2 mi · 39%
- Downhill 5.7 mi · 36%
- Flat 3.8 mi · 24%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Vesuvius Backpack Trail take?
Most backpackers hike the Vesuvius Backpack Trail in about 2 days (1 nights out) over its 16.1 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Vesuvius Backpack Trail?
The Vesuvius Backpack Trail climbs roughly 1,998 ft total — about 124 ft per mile, topping out near 1,004 ft.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.