How to Drive Scenic Route 23 from Columbus

Driving Scenic Route 23 from Columbus offers more than just a commute—it’s an immersive journey through Ohio’s most captivating landscapes, historic towns, and quiet rural charm. Often overlooked by travelers focused on interstate highways, U.S. Route 23 winds its way north from the capital city through rolling hills, dense forests, and charming communities that reveal the authentic soul of central and eastern Ohio. Whether you're a local seeking a weekend escape, a road trip enthusiast, or a photographer chasing golden-hour light through autumn foliage, Route 23 delivers an experience that’s both visually stunning and deeply rewarding.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to navigating Route 23 from Columbus, with expert tips on timing, stops, safety, and hidden gems. Unlike generic travel blogs that list attractions without context, this tutorial is engineered for drivers who value precision, local insight, and SEO-optimized practicality. You’ll learn not just how to get from point A to point B, but how to savor every mile in between.

Step-by-Step Guide

Begin at the Southern Edge: Columbus to Delaware

Start your journey at the southern terminus of Route 23 within Columbus, near the intersection of I-71 and S. High Street (State Route 315). While Route 23 technically begins further south near the Kentucky border, the most practical and scenic entry point for Columbus residents is at the northern junction of I-71 and SR-315, where Route 23 merges with High Street heading north.

From downtown Columbus, follow signs for SR-315 North. After approximately 1.5 miles, merge onto U.S. Route 23 North via the ramp just past the Columbus City Limits. You’ll immediately notice the transition from urban sprawl to suburban tranquility. The first 15 miles are marked by tree-lined avenues, well-maintained residential neighborhoods, and occasional glimpses of the Olentangy River.

As you approach Delaware, Ohio—the historic county seat known for its preserved 19th-century architecture—take the exit for Main Street (SR-37). This detour adds just 2 miles but delivers a cultural payoff: the Delaware County Courthouse, the oldest continuously operating courthouse in Ohio, and the charming storefronts of the Delaware Historic District. Park for 30 minutes, grab coffee at The Daily Grind, and walk along the brick sidewalks lined with murals depicting local history.

North Through the Hocking Hills Corridor: Delaware to Nelsonville

Leaving Delaware, Route 23 continues northward, entering the rolling terrain of the Hocking Hills region. This stretch, roughly 40 miles long, is where the landscape begins to transform dramatically. The road climbs gently, flanked by dense hardwood forests that burst into color during autumn. Spring brings wildflowers; summer offers cool canopy cover; winter reveals stark, snow-dusted ridges.

At the 25-mile mark past Delaware, you’ll pass the entrance to Hocking Hills State Park via SR-669. Even if you don’t plan to hike, pull over at the scenic overlook near the park’s southern boundary. The vista offers panoramic views of the valley below, with mist often rising from the riverbed in the early morning. This is one of the most photographed spots on Route 23.

Continue north to Logan, Ohio. Here, Route 23 passes through a narrow valley between two ridges, creating a natural tunnel of trees. The road narrows slightly, and speed limits drop to 45 mph—this is intentional for safety and to preserve the experience. Take your time. Watch for deer crossings, especially at dawn and dusk.

Just north of Logan, look for the sign for the “Route 23 Scenic Byway” designation. This is the official recognition by the Ohio Department of Transportation that this corridor holds cultural and natural significance. Mile markers here are adorned with small plaques listing native flora and fauna.

As you approach Nelsonville, the road becomes more winding. This is the gateway to the Appalachian foothills. Nelsonville is home to Ohio University’s southeastern campus and a thriving arts scene. Stop at the Nelsonville Bookstore, one of the oldest independent bookshops in the state, or visit the Hocking Hills Visitor Center just off Route 23 for maps and trail recommendations.

The Appalachian Ascent: Nelsonville to I-77

From Nelsonville, Route 23 begins its most dramatic climb. The elevation rises over 600 feet in the next 18 miles. This section is where the road earns its “scenic” reputation. The asphalt curves like ribbon around limestone cliffs, with occasional pull-offs offering sweeping views of the Hocking River Valley.

Look for the “Buckeye Trail” junction near the top of the ridge. The Buckeye Trail, a 1,444-mile hiking loop that encircles Ohio, crosses Route 23 here. Even if you’re not hiking, this is an ideal spot to stretch your legs and take photos of the trail marker against the backdrop of distant ridgelines.

As you descend toward I-77, the landscape opens up into a broad valley. This is the transition zone between the Appalachian Plateau and the more gently rolling terrain of southeastern Ohio. You’ll pass the small town of Bainbridge, known for its historic covered bridge and annual apple festival in October.

Just before reaching I-77, you’ll see the sign for the “Route 23 Overlook Park.” This state-maintained rest area features picnic tables, interpretive signs about local geology, and a panoramic viewing platform. It’s the perfect place to pause, refill water, and capture the full scope of your journey so far.

Final Stretch: I-77 to the West Virginia Border

At the I-77 interchange, Route 23 turns eastward toward the West Virginia border. This final segment, though shorter, is no less enchanting. The road follows the course of the Little Kanawha River for several miles, with frequent views of waterfalls cascading down moss-covered cliffs.

Watch for the turnoff to the “Devil’s Bathtub,” a natural rock basin fed by a hidden spring. Access requires a short, easy 0.3-mile trail—ideal for a 15-minute break. The water is crystal clear and cool year-round, making it a favorite among locals.

As you approach the state line, the landscape becomes more rugged. Trees grow denser, and the road becomes narrower. The final 5 miles before West Virginia feature a series of hairpin turns that require reduced speed. This is not a place to rush. The quiet here is profound—only birdsong and the rustle of leaves break the silence.

At the state line, you’ll pass a simple stone marker reading “Welcome to West Virginia.” Many travelers stop here for a photo. You’ve now driven nearly 160 miles of pure scenic beauty, starting from the urban core of Columbus.

Best Practices

Timing Your Trip

The ideal time to drive Route 23 from Columbus is between late September and mid-October, when the hardwood forests ignite in fiery reds, oranges, and golds. However, this is also the busiest period. To avoid congestion, plan to leave Columbus by 7 a.m. on a weekday. Sunday mornings are also quiet and offer ideal lighting for photography.

Avoid driving during heavy rain or snow. While Route 23 is well-maintained, its winding nature and elevation changes make it more susceptible to slick conditions than interstates. If fog rolls in during early morning hours, reduce speed and use low-beam headlights.

Vehicle Preparation

Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before embarking. Check tire pressure, brake fluid, and windshield wipers. The elevation changes and sharp curves demand responsive handling. If you’re driving a high-clearance vehicle or towing, be aware that some secondary access roads off Route 23 are unpaved and narrow.

Keep a full tank of gas. There are no gas stations between Logan and Nelsonville for over 30 miles. Fill up in Delaware or Logan. Carry a portable charger for your phone, as cell service is spotty in the higher elevations.

Driving Etiquette

Route 23 is shared by locals, cyclists, and tourists. Many residents use this road daily. Yield to oncoming traffic on blind curves. Never stop in the middle of the road to take photos—use designated pull-offs. If you see a cyclist ahead, slow down and pass only when you have a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead.

Respect private property. Many of the scenic overlooks are on public land, but surrounding forests and fields are privately owned. Stay on marked trails and roads.

Photography Tips

For the best light, drive north in the morning and south in the afternoon. The sun casts long shadows across the valleys, enhancing texture and depth in your photos. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on wet pavement and enhance the saturation of autumn leaves.

Bring a tripod for sunrise and sunset shots at the overlooks. The quiet hours before dawn offer the clearest skies and the least traffic. Capture the mist rising from the Hocking River at daybreak—it’s a rare and magical phenomenon.

Safety and Emergency Preparedness

While Route 23 is safe, it’s remote. Carry a basic emergency kit: first aid supplies, blankets, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a flashlight. Inform someone of your travel plans and estimated arrival time. Download offline maps via Google Maps or Gaia GPS before you leave, as GPS signals may drop in the hills.

If you experience car trouble, pull completely off the road, activate hazard lights, and remain inside your vehicle. Emergency services are available, but response times may be longer in the upper stretches of the route.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Navigation Apps

While GPS is useful, rely on multiple tools:

• Google Maps – Use the “Avoid Highways” setting to stay on Route 23. Enable offline maps for the entire corridor from Columbus to the West Virginia line.
• Gaia GPS – Ideal for hikers and photographers. Offers topographic overlays and trail access points along Route 23.
• Roadtrippers – Curates hidden stops, historic markers, and local eateries along your route. Their Route 23 collection includes user-submitted photos and reviews.

Printed Maps and Guides

Carry a physical map from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). Their “Ohio Scenic Byways” brochure includes detailed pull-off locations, rest areas, and historical context. You can pick one up at any ODOT service center or download it from their website.

The “Hocking Hills Travel Guide” by Ohio University Press is an excellent companion. It includes driving itineraries, geological explanations, and interviews with local historians.

Weather and Road Condition Tools

Check the Ohio Department of Transportation’s 511 Ohio website or dial 511 for real-time updates on road closures, construction, and weather advisories. For forest fire risk or air quality (especially in fall), use the EPA’s AirNow app.

Local Resources and Cultural Insights

Follow these social media accounts for real-time updates and hidden spots:

• @route23ohio – Instagram account run by local photographers featuring daily shots from the corridor.
• Delaware County Historical Society – Facebook page with events, museum hours, and seasonal festivals.
• Hocking Hills Conservancy – Twitter account that posts trail closures and wildlife sightings.

Visit the visitor centers in Delaware, Nelsonville, and Bainbridge. Staff are often locals with deep knowledge of the area and can recommend quiet spots not listed in guidebooks.

Audio Guides and Podcasts

Download the “Ohio Scenic Roads” podcast by Ohio History Connection. Episode 7, “The Road That Climbs the Hills,” features interviews with retired truck drivers, park rangers, and artists who live along Route 23. It’s an enriching listen while you drive.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Photographer’s Journey

Emma, a professional landscape photographer from Cincinnati, drove Route 23 from Columbus on October 12, 2023. She left at 5:30 a.m. with a Canon R5, tripod, and polarizing filter. Her goal: capture the transition from urban to wild.

She stopped at the Delaware Courthouse at sunrise, photographing the golden light hitting the stone façade. At the Hocking Hills overlook, she waited two hours for the mist to lift, capturing a rare image of the valley shrouded in fog with a single hawk soaring above. In Nelsonville, she met a local artisan who let her photograph his hand-carved wooden signs displayed outside his shop.

Her final shot, taken at the Devil’s Bathtub at 4:45 p.m., shows the deep blue water reflecting the crimson canopy above. The image won first prize in the 2024 Ohio Nature Photography Contest.

Example 2: The Family Road Trip

The Ramirez family from Columbus took their two children, ages 8 and 11, on a weekend trip along Route 23 in May 2023. They packed sandwiches, binoculars, and a nature scavenger hunt list from the Hocking Hills Visitor Center.

They stopped at the Buckeye Trail junction to look for wild turkeys (they spotted three). At the Route 23 Overlook Park, the kids fed squirrels and identified oak, maple, and hickory trees using the interpretive signs. In Bainbridge, they bought handmade apple butter from a roadside stand.

“It wasn’t about how far we went,” said Maria Ramirez. “It was about how quiet it felt. The kids didn’t even ask for their tablets.”

Example 3: The Solo Motorcyclist

James, a retired mechanic from Columbus, rides Route 23 every Friday during spring and fall. He rides a 2018 Harley-Davidson Street Glide. He prefers the early morning hours because “the road feels like it’s yours alone.”

He keeps a journal of each ride. His entry from September 29, 2023, reads: “Climbed past the old stone wall near Logan. Wind was cold, leaves like fire. Stopped at the overlook. A deer crossed the road 50 yards ahead. Didn’t move. We just stared. Then it vanished into the trees. No one else was there. Perfect.”

Example 4: The Student Research Project

Four students from Ohio State University’s Environmental Studies program studied Route 23’s ecological impact in 2022. They tracked bird migration patterns, measured air quality, and interviewed residents about land use changes.

They found that despite increased tourism, the corridor has maintained higher biodiversity than comparable roads. They attributed this to the low speed limits, limited commercial development, and active conservation efforts by local nonprofits.

Their report, “The Quiet Corridor: Route 23 as a Greenway,” is now used by ODOT to inform future road planning in rural Ohio.

FAQs

Is Route 23 safe to drive at night?

While Route 23 is well-lit in populated areas, the stretches between Logan and Nelsonville have minimal lighting. Deer are active at night, and the curves are sharp. It’s not recommended to drive this route after dark unless absolutely necessary. If you must, drive slowly, use high beams when no oncoming traffic is present, and stay alert.

Are there gas stations along Route 23?

Yes, but they are spaced far apart. Fill up in Columbus, Delaware, Logan, or Nelsonville. There are no stations between Logan and Nelsonville for approximately 32 miles. Bainbridge has one station near the West Virginia border.

Can I bike Route 23?

Yes, many cyclists ride Route 23, especially in spring and fall. The road has a shoulder in most sections, but it’s narrow in the hills. Wear reflective gear, use a rear light, and avoid riding during peak tourist weekends. Cyclists are encouraged to use the Buckeye Trail for off-road sections.

Are pets allowed at the scenic overlooks?

Yes, pets are welcome at all state-maintained pull-offs and parks, but must be leashed. Bring water and clean up after them. Some trails off Route 23 do not allow pets—check signs at trailheads.

What’s the best time of year to drive Route 23?

Autumn (late September to mid-October) offers the most dramatic scenery. Spring (April–May) is ideal for wildflowers and fewer crowds. Summer is warm and green, but can be humid. Winter is quiet and serene, with snow-dusted trees, but some overlooks may be closed due to ice.

Do I need a permit to stop or photograph along the route?

No permits are required for personal photography or short stops at public pull-offs. Commercial photography or drone use requires a permit from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Always check signage before setting up equipment.

How long does it take to drive Route 23 from Columbus to West Virginia?

Without stops, the drive takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. With scenic stops, photo breaks, and meals, plan for 5 to 7 hours. Many travelers make it a full-day excursion.

Is Route 23 the same as the “Ohio Scenic Byway”?

Yes. The entire stretch from Columbus to the West Virginia border is designated as the “Ohio Scenic Byway” by the Federal Highway Administration. It’s one of only 14 such corridors in the state.

Can I camp along Route 23?

There are no campgrounds directly on Route 23, but several are within 5 miles: Hocking Hills State Park, Clear Creek Metro Park, and Buckeye Trail Campground. Reserve in advance during peak season.

What should I pack for a day trip on Route 23?

Water, snacks, sunscreen, layers of clothing (temperatures vary by elevation), a camera, phone charger, map, and a reusable water bottle. A small first aid kit and hand sanitizer are also recommended.

Conclusion

Driving Scenic Route 23 from Columbus is not merely a transportation task—it’s a pilgrimage through the quiet heart of Ohio. Unlike the speed and noise of interstates, this route invites slowness, observation, and connection. Each curve reveals a new layer of natural beauty, each town a story of resilience and community.

This guide has equipped you with the practical knowledge to navigate the road safely, the cultural context to appreciate its significance, and the tools to make the most of every mile. Whether you’re capturing the first light on autumn leaves, sharing a quiet moment with a stranger at a roadside diner, or simply listening to the wind through the pines, Route 23 offers something rare in today’s world: authenticity.

As you plan your next journey, consider leaving the highway behind. Take Route 23. Drive with intention. Pause often. Let the landscape speak. And remember—the most memorable roads aren’t the fastest ones. They’re the ones that change you.