Sheltowee Trace NRT: Section 26 North

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Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Beginning at the KY 1193 trailhead and the north end of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail - Section 26 (Laurel Lake) trail, this part of Kentucky's longest trail is technically harder and physically more demanding than other parts in the area. It's tough, but in a good way. This section is known as "Cane Creek" because of its proximity (passing through) Cane Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Immediately after entering the forest after crossing the paved road the mad descent begins. The trail keeps on going down until a tight and twisty switchback section dropping you into a quick glide over Pounder Branch on a wooden footbridge.

You can combine this with the Laurel Lake hike from the dam, for a nice long out and back with the technical trail in the middle, bookended by some nice lakeside hiking.