The Coalition began with a question: How do I, as a nine-to-fiver, a husband, and a father of two find time to get out on the trail? The answer didn’t come right away. In fact, for 5 long years I couldn’t find the time at all. Hiking was nothing more than an Idle wish.

I’ve met a lot of people since then, most of them busy parents, who, no doubt, have made an idle wish or two of their own. In sharing mine with them, I heard often enough that hiking was something they’d like to try, but had no idea where to go, or what they’d need once they got there. Certainly I could help them get started. But, what if I did more? A lot more? What if I took care of the transportation, acted as a guide, provided the perfect gear, and, most importantly, eliminated nearly all of the expense? It sounded like a lot of fun.

Over the last 5 years, I’ve met a lot of people on the trails and logged hundreds of miles. After hiking through several of Ohio’s backcountry destinations I’ve come up with two I’d like to share because of their scenic beauty, historical significance and great trails: Shawnee and Zaleski State Forests. I invite you to experience a little backcountry adventure, learn a little Ohio history and have some fun!

• Tom Barry