Most Ohio travel guides send every weekend driver to the exact same three parking lots in Hocking County. While those gorges are scenic, spending forty minutes waiting for a parking spot takes the fun right out of a day trip. After logging thousands of miles across all 88 counties, I have learned that the best autumn foliage and quiet views sit along our quiet state routes.
State Route 78 and the Rim of the World
Stretching through Morgan and Noble counties, State Route 78 carries you high above rolling ridge lines with views that stretch for miles. The pavement winds through sharp turns and crests where farm barns sit framed against oak and hickory trees. Make sure to pull over at the scenic overlooks near Ringgold to take in the ridge tops without rushing.
The Covered Bridge Loop of Ashtabula County
Up in northeastern Ohio, Ashtabula County features nineteen preserved covered bridges scattered across farmland and creek crossings. Following the marked bridge trail leads you away from Interstate 90 onto narrow two-lane roads lined with maple trees. You can easily spend half a day crossing structural marvels like the Smolen-Gulf Bridge while stopping at roadside apple stands.
Where to Fuel Up Along the Backroads
A scenic drive is only half complete without a local diner stop along the route. Skip the highway fast food exits and look for gravel parking lots outside small-town spots serving hot pork tenderloin sandwiches and fresh coffee. Taking the slow road means supporting local family businesses that keep these communities alive.