Enjoy the rustic beauty of southern Ohio while traveling along the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The 105-mile Appalachian Byway of Ohio connects with The Ohio River Scenic Byway and is a lovely in every season.
Visitors looking for a scenic, country road adventure should plan a drive along the Appalachian Byway of Ohio, a scenic route in southeastern Ohio with views and destinations not to be missed. This section of State Route 78 offers an escape from the city limits winding through the beautiful countryside of southeastern Ohio. Whether traveling by motorcycle or car, visitors must stop to explore the quaint towns.
From the Ohio River Scenic Byway (State Route 7), connect with the Appalachian Byway of Ohio, SR78, in Clarington. Or, begin your journey from Interstate 77 exit 25 in Caldwell.
Encounter Monroe’s Piatt Park with great hiking, waterfalls and camping options. In Woodsfield, experience the Hollister-Perry House Museum or restaurants like Traditions in the historic downtown. The historic Monroe Theatre in downtown Woodsfield, which first opened its doors in 1939, is being restored and is ready to welcome new visitors under its brightly lit, Instagram-worthy marquee. Enjoy classic and first-run movies as well as live theater and entertainment. Note: the theatre will be closed some in 2025 for renovations, so check the website first.
In Noble County, discover local favorites like Chapman’s Coffee House, Lori’s Family Restaurant and Patty’s Place, known for their mouth-watering daily specials, homemade soups and delectable pies. Ice skate with family in downtown Caldwell. Take time for a game of checkers at The Historic Jail Museum, downtown Caldwell.
Looking for a bit of local lore? The Historic Jail Museum, built in 1882, is nestled in an area of beautiful streetlights, businesses and stores in historic downtown Caldwell. It’s just two blocks from the Ball-Caldwell House, which dates to 1832. Both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Explore Southeast Ohio’s amazing woodlands. Wolf Run State Park offers more than 1,000 acres of scenic, peaceful woodlands for a quiet getaway nestled in the heart of Appalachia. The hills, caverns and trails of Wayne National Forest, the only national forest in Ohio, boasts 340 miles of trails open to hiking, backpacking and horseback riding. Enjoy the sounds of the rippling water while kayaking or canoeing.
Continue the journey along the Byway to Morgan County, the “Front Porch to the Great Outdoors.” Don’t miss the Big Muskie Bucket at Jesse Owens State Park, an ode to the region’s roots in coal mining. Big Muskie was the largest dragline ever built — a true engineering marvel. Today, only the oversized bucket remains, perfect for fun photo ops.
Venture to McConnelsville, one of Ohio Magazine’s 2024 “Best Hometowns”, or enjoy a show at one of the region’s iconic theaters. The Twin City Opera House in McConnelsville has been in operation since 1892 (and is rumored to be haunted!).
There’s so much to see in Nelsonville in Athens County along the Byway too. Stuart’s Opera House is the cornerstone of the historic Nelsonville public square. The historic 1879 theater has been a part of this Southeast Ohio town since the boom times of coal mining in the 19th century. Break away from your routine, experience something new and leave with a story to tell.
For more information, go to https://nsbfoundation.com/sb/appalachian-byway-of-ohio/.
Edited by Gwynn Stewart with portions adapted with permission from Escape to Ohio’s Countryside by Jill Ross.