Vinton Iron Furnace

The Adventure...

The Vinton Iron Furnace is located in an area known as the Hanging Rock Region. During the 19th century, the Hanging Rock Iron Region was the second largest producer of iron for our young nation. The Vinton Iron Furnace started operation in 1854 and was in operation until 1880. Although the furnace itself is in poor condition, remnants of the boiler house, hot blast house, coke piles, and iron slag are still clearly visible. The Belgium Coke Ovens can also be seen at the site and are believed to be the last of this type of oven to be standing in the world. 

Learn More!

Vinton County Tourism  
104 West Main Street 
McArthur, Ohio 45651

740.596.5033 (Vinton CVB)

Website: Vinton Iron Furnace

Getting there is Half the Adventure!

The Vinton Furnace is located approximately ¼ mile east of McArthur in central Vinton County. Take Route 50 east of McArthur and turn tight onto Stone Quarry Road / County Road 8. Go past the limestone pits. The road will "Y" - take the left hand fork (The right hand fork will dead end approximately 100 yards ahead.). The left hand fork will cross a bridge, then follow along the hillside. At the next point where the road bends to the left, you will notice a bridge to your right that is closed. Park the vehicle, walk across the bridge, and follow the trail (Mead Sanctuary Trail). It is the first trail coming back from the 2nd closed bridge on the right hand side that leads to the furnace/oven area. Follow the hiker markers.

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