tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90647343955140995302024-03-05T04:17:21.079-08:00Western Kentucky HikingWoodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-30252362173029425742014-09-15T13:59:00.001-07:002014-09-15T14:01:53.699-07:00Baker Natural Area<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4kPqObXnIDw/VBdTC6cRY0I/AAAAAAAABkU/n-e2C6k_uw8/s1600-h/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520004%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RbwsanwuqgM/VBdTDe62-PI/AAAAAAAABkc/8U23gjklxb0/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520004%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" align="right" height="170"></a> The Baker Natural Area consists of sixty-six acres within the city limits of Russellville, Kentucky. The landscape is quite diverse and contains open prairie, limestone barrens, sinkholes, forestland, and a small wetland area. Two thirds of the sixty-six acres is woodland and habitat for migratory birds and home to deer, wild turkey and small game. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Pxkw9Aqz5ag/VBdTFkyplkI/AAAAAAAABkk/1zCN1N9RlwM/s1600-h/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520036%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-43eEmcyEzj0/VBdTGKKxLmI/AAAAAAAABks/Nyv-Om5cWAc/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520036%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" align="left" height="171"></a> The site has not been intensively farmed for more than twenty years and much of the native flora and fauna has returned to the landscape. A biological review has identified a total of three hundred seventy-seven plant species on the property. Five of these plants were listed in 2004 by the Kentucky Nature Preserves Commission as of special concern in Kentucky. These species include Purple Prairie Clover, Carolina Larkspur, Hairy Fimbry, Inland Muhly, <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-L86IdQnmYOI/VBdTHasHgeI/AAAAAAAABk0/2MZzCwwzAlk/s1600-h/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520091%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1ITYrjpwXmA/VBdTH4SKQmI/AAAAAAAABk8/PAKGAuDVef4/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520091%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="232" align="right" height="175"></a>and also Tansy Rosinweed.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>There are about two miles of walking trails with benches for use by the visitor. There is also a bird watching shelter with other study shelters on the property. Study can be conducted for aquatic wildlife also. The trail is easy to walk and the benefits to the public are many. School children on field nature study trips or the average walker and hiker can enjoy this area for many years to come.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-22479707694938633302014-09-15T13:51:00.001-07:002014-09-15T13:53:37.324-07:00Logan County Glade<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x83Ise_BWzo/VBdRL3nurBI/AAAAAAAABjQ/mrb6wp6uy20/s1600-h/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520124%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ybnV5t1RHzg/VBdRMn4_ukI/AAAAAAAABjY/NeS6ZJ-7f2g/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520124%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="232" align="right" height="175"></a> Logan County Glade State Nature Preserve is perched on the south-facing slopes of a knob within the city limits of Russellville. It is one of the best examples of a limestone slope glade community found in Kentucky. Limestone glades are naturally open areas with scattered ledges and slabs of limestone outcropping at or near the surface. The soil is thin and the hot, dry conditions on the south-facing openings leave exposed trees sparse and stunted. These seemingly adverse conditions offer a special refuge for many prairie and glade plants.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KqsuNC64wsk/VBdRO4VQaMI/AAAAAAAABjg/haLdY4R6aHc/s1600-h/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520159%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3TaBhk_7dcGKRKjadBCDUFFkPSG23Nv3qlnEPX4MW8_RGeKkD92vde5DWyme1zYF71AQTq-i5dC2OYjzOAVVAQyfV3UwXopw-TOMRzuUzglb7vJBlGeuaI6aJ8A9FtXm0J2N3y6dJ-I/?imgmax=800" width="229" align="left" height="173"></a> Logan County Glade protects several species that are considered state and globally threatened or endangered. These include the Fame Flower, for which this is one of only two known occurrences in the state; the Carolina Larkspur, a tall, pale, whitish-purple flower similar in shape to the garden variety; a nondescript shrub commonly known as Upland Privet; and the Glade Violet. Many prairie species are found here because rocky soils and steep slopes have made Logan County Glade unsuitable for agriculture.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjokhLdWCGoM_x-a_92-EC3JZXJoDPrk8VuzpImSgrNH28vPOUl67u8L7lpndOvqDYIpYpbF2i4pwainDpRXnjQs05Tx3HfeHXFZOBu7knB0aTM1Z2IpVI9yU-4vWNfveW8KL1gd5JZ-I/s1600-h/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520171%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 20px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Wxz5AEUEevM/VBdRSTteKhI/AAAAAAAABj4/akdkOTRj4HU/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520171%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="231" align="right" height="174"></a></strong> <p align="justify"><strong>There are a number of cultural features that hint at the area’s past uses. The limestone fence along the preserve’s southern border was built before the Civil War. The trail along the base of the knob was an old county road. In the early twentieth century, the John Dockins family farmed the top of the knob for corn and tobacco. In 1960 the land was sold to the county to build a hospital. Other than constructing a radio tower and a small building that housed communication equipment for the hospital, the glade and knob were generally left undisturbed by the county.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Jqurl5yWTaE/VBdRUwxzjAI/AAAAAAAABkA/w_2BbCcss30/s1600-h/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520174%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nX-lzxMl_f0/VBdRVjMdxiI/AAAAAAAABkI/nAOHVyritTg/Baker%252520Natural%252520Area%252520Hiking%252520174%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="231" align="left" height="174"></a> The preserve was officially opened to the public in 1991 after local Boy Scouts from troops 303 and 58 helped to clear cedars and other trees from one of the glades and built a trail through the property. The half-mile loop leads hikers to one of the glades, through the woods to the top of the knob and back to the trailhead. The preserve is open to hiking, nature study and photography from sunrise to sunset. Picnicking, camping, hunting, pets, bicycles and ATV’s are prohibited.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-64358891397655590442014-09-15T13:39:00.001-07:002014-09-15T13:44:13.056-07:00Big Rivers WMA<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IFLnzffLJcw/VBdOeET3s0I/AAAAAAAABiM/Jy0NMxvhxyI/s1600-h/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520084%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E-4o2_COAl0/VBdOe67ATNI/AAAAAAAABiQ/UtIRWaoM9kg/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520084%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" align="right" height="171"></a> The Kentucky Division of Forestry and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources have jointly acquired nearly 2,500 acres at the confluence of the Ohio and Tradewater Rivers. The property is the state’s newest Wildlife Management Area and State Forest. The site near Sturgis is a portion of one of the largest private landholdings in Kentucky; known locally as the Alcoa Property, or more recently as the Kimball Property.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-q19hfw2-nOo/VBdOfnq7RKI/AAAAAAAABic/A5_pq-77Wx0/s1600-h/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520076%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ez0RD8OaZ0k/VBdOgPK8slI/AAAAAAAABig/rxN6u6DwrwY/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520076_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" align="left" height="172"></a> “It’s the gem on the Ohio River,” state Senator Dorsey Ridley said of the expansive area. “It’s a historic area. Lewis and Clark camped at the mouth of the Tradewater on their trip to the Pacific Ocean in the early 1800s.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Big Rivers WMA and State Forest provides public recreational opportunities for hunting, fishing, hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The property will also be managed to provide watershed and water quality<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2TTNjUX-3uM/VBdOhK3xRYI/AAAAAAAABis/4TujASqAS_U/s1600-h/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520043%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-j72Whggjisc/VBdOh9moZMI/AAAAAAAABi0/8W2QWZc1Aa8/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520043%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="173" align="right" height="229"></a> protection; protection and recovery of endangered, threatened and rare species; preservation of existing cultural and geological treasures and a sustainable forest. It will be permanently protected from development and agricultural conversion.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong> This area is described as having steep to very steep upland hardwood forests, flat to rolling bottomland <strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r4X--iSB7Sw/VBdOjOnB-gI/AAAAAAAABi8/02yX8vTgSE4/s1600-h/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520021%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gu9ITi0Zi8Y/VBdOjlWl9BI/AAAAAAAABjE/Yt4pfIE9b9U/Big%252520Rivers%252520WMA%252520021%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" align="left" height="172"></a></strong>hardwood forest, and agricultural lands bordered by the Ohio River to the west and the Tradewater River to the south. The online map of the site depicts the trails; however, notation of the distances is lacking. Upon hiking the area and studying the map, I would estimate four to five miles of trails. Many of these trails are more like access roads for those managing the property and one trail appears to be an old abandoned railroad bed.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-56680622749154485072014-09-15T13:28:00.001-07:002014-09-15T13:30:48.309-07:00Jackson Purchase Medical CTR Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nteEwUKc1GQ/VBdLzuhS1iI/AAAAAAAABhY/dS4uqAaDSKM/s1600-h/Mayfield%252520Hospital%252520Trail%252520011%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mayfield Hospital Trail 011 - LIKE" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Mayfield Hospital Trail 011 - LIKE" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-O2WJaaPG6-I/VBdL0UgZ-0I/AAAAAAAABhg/f-_xqa9xeWk/Mayfield%252520Hospital%252520Trail%252520011%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" align="right" height="168"></a> The following information was retrieved from the Jackson Purchase Medical Center website concerning this unique hospital located in Mayfield, Kentucky: “Soliant Health, a leading specialty healthcare staffing provider and part of Adecco Group, is proud to announce the top 20 Most Beautiful Hospitals in America. Jackson Purchase Medical Center came in at number fifteen.” </strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ94BeaelXudIsrKO_zWN7pv5FnK4yV7SgFiVNMUL86FyxQF9GGWExxoM0dKgfVleVnLpGT-V91MeMe3I-R_kIJifNZYEe3rn573QfzRdwkETE6_11i-jszzxMrXeNaSDkppPuhqvxQFk/s1600-h/Mayfield%252520Hospital%252520Trail%252520005%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mayfield Hospital Trail 005 - LIKE" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Mayfield Hospital Trail 005 - LIKE" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwj6mafc4MC2yda-DJKaoOoLhHvShTCwlfs-De9RJtzhAB4z-GbXuBPuo_3HObAcxi-quSXBUghQtIHIAjvDSkqnbhCSFILhO5lXiHDmHwL9-cl6ddKiqSdCcmjdwIdadO_8La6dWg4Y/?imgmax=800" width="221" align="left" height="167"></a> “The design of Jackson Purchase Medical Center provides our patients, visitors and staff with a comfortable, pleasant environment. We believe that such an environment improves their overall experience and patient outcomes,” said Fred Pelle, C.E.O. Jackson Purchase Medical Center combines state-of-the-art equipment, advanced technologies, and a nurturing, friendly environment to merge the science of medicine with the art of healing” (JPMC Website).<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jOYVQc0xKdM/VBdL3ialP9I/AAAAAAAABh4/NcBRW0kpmQY/s1600-h/Mayfield%252520Hospital%252520Trail%252520009%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mayfield Hospital Trail 009 - LIKE" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Mayfield Hospital Trail 009 - LIKE" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SJlRhx3U70Q/VBdL4QAFm3I/AAAAAAAABh8/PJ4LpC5RZs4/Mayfield%252520Hospital%252520Trail%252520009%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="229" align="right" height="173"></a> </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Perhaps one of the attractions making the Jackson Purchase Medical Center the fifteenth most beautiful hospital in America is the addition of the Fitness Trail out front. This trail is an estimated one mile in length, making a picturesque loop around a small lake with scenic landscaping. This trail can be done as a side trip after hiking the much longer Kess Creek Park Trail in Mayfield. Hiking the Kess Creek trail is still on my “to do list.”</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-73801286971577303082014-09-15T12:55:00.001-07:002014-09-15T12:56:55.538-07:00Paducah Greenway<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vx39qq67WeA/VBdEN1PVhQI/AAAAAAAABgg/4ndBW1Hc4Mo/s1600-h/Paducah%252520Greenway%252520006%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FIqmAeETyqc/VBdEObegkwI/AAAAAAAABgo/M-iAJ3bPY_0/Paducah%252520Greenway%252520006%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" align="right" height="170"></a> Paducah, originally known as Pekin, was settled around 1815. Settlers were attracted to the community due to its location at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers. In 1827, William Clark (of the Lewis and Clark expedition) arrived in Pekin with a title deed to the land, which was issued by the United States Supreme Court. The town was platted out and named in honor of the largest nation of Native Americans that ever roamed North America, the Padouca Indians. The community was incorporated in 1830.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zkTvUKHfK6A/VBdEPy88LII/AAAAAAAABgw/97aAqhYXed4/s1600-h/Paducah%252520Greenway%252520015%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ya6VAUR1Z-M/VBdEQ0rjxOI/AAAAAAAABg4/cp8enhILI78/Paducah%252520Greenway%252520015%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" align="left" height="172"></a> The Clyde F. Boyles Greenway Trail currently has two completed sections with the third phase under construction, and an additional phase planned. The Paducah Greenway is funded in part thanks to income from an endowment from the Boyles estate. Lanelle Boyles, who died December 31, 2005, bequeathed a portion of the estate to the City of Paducah to be used for walking and biking trails in memory of her husband, Clyde F. Boyles. The endowment is managed by the Community Foundation of West Kentucky, Inc.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rj-2mSpXz5w/VBdESDuzvsI/AAAAAAAABhA/y9ajC7i1uHs/s1600-h/Paducah%252520Greenway%252520021%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--SvgmzmndKs/VBdESxjI3XI/AAAAAAAABhI/EyX1qJMcr34/Paducah%252520Greenway%252520021%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="229" align="right" height="173"></a> </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The trail is open to non-motorized traffic from dawn to dusk. Once completed, the Paducah Greenway will stretch five and one-half miles linking residential neighborhoods with numerous city parks and lead downtown to the bustling and beautiful riverfront. The Greenway will link the following four parks when completed: Perkins Creek Nature Preserve, Stuart Nelson Park, Noble Park, and Schultz Park.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-85121838703178097082014-09-15T12:47:00.001-07:002014-09-15T12:48:09.623-07:00Mike Miller Park Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VOByj6Inuq8/VBdCPgwa3-I/AAAAAAAABfs/TT3IOur9_9Q/s1600-h/Moon%252520and%252520Miller%252520Park%252520Pics%252520033%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NrDA45tAcCA/VBdCQQqOydI/AAAAAAAABf0/rEEJlO-t2vY/Moon%252520and%252520Miller%252520Park%252520Pics%252520033%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" align="right" height="168"></a> After approximately four and one half years of planning, designing and construction, Marshall County’s first full amenities park, Mike Miller County Park, opened to the public in September 2000. Before the park came to be, the Fiscal Court appointed a five-member park board to assess the recreation facilities within the county and the cities of Benton, Calvert City, Hardin and also the two state parks in the county. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Park Board held a series of public meetings to determine peoples’ desires for additional recreational opportunities and traveled to other parks with outstanding facilities in the state of Kentucky and <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-sX-xg_3G5V4/VBdCR6CFuuI/AAAAAAAABf8/QALCBVaAa14/s1600-h/Moon%252520and%252520Miller%252520Park%252520Pics%252520036%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Jll_Loeaae8/VBdCSQsngMI/AAAAAAAABgE/pvOsuIOCaU4/Moon%252520and%252520Miller%252520Park%252520Pics%252520036%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" align="left" height="170"></a> surrounding states. Armed with the information they collected, the board began a search for property. The perfect property would be centrally located and large enough for the development of recreational facilities, but not an excessive expenditure. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Park Board recommended the purchase of an eighty-acre site in the community of Draffenville, located on U.S. Highway 68 West, near the interchange of the Purchase Parkway. In 1997, the county purchased the property. The Park Board then commissioned Brandstetler-Carroll of Louisville, Kentucky<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KgSvq1EKt5w/VBdCTkuNA2I/AAAAAAAABgM/cbdZSopv_Is/s1600-h/Moon%252520and%252520Miller%252520Park%252520Pics%252520052%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Xqr2rIGfuOg/VBdCUWIvnMI/AAAAAAAABgU/-4mQyqF9Uao/Moon%252520and%252520Miller%252520Park%252520Pics%252520052%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="233" align="right" height="176"></a> for a master plan of the park’s development. Construction began in the winter of 1998 and approximately two and one half years later, the park was opened for public use. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Park facilities include an 18-Hole Disc Golf Course, Soccer fields, Baseball Fields, Batting Cages, Basketball Courts, Tennis Courts, Sand Volleyball Court, Playgrounds, Five-acre Stocked Fishing Lake, Pavilions and Restrooms; and last but not least, a two-mile long Walking Trail with inclines and flats.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-35449486989063184352014-09-15T12:39:00.001-07:002014-09-15T12:40:05.299-07:00Kenlake Golf Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YbziAevh0iA/VBdAQSd1ZLI/AAAAAAAABe4/2gzYSu0e6bg/s1600-h/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520074%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JDonlCt9t7M/VBdAQ1RxFRI/AAAAAAAABfA/asDfe94uwlE/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520074%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" align="right" height="171"></a> The Commonwealth of Kentucky began negotiations with the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1946 to lease a portion of land known as Aurora Landing. The land was situated on the western shore of Kentucky Lake near the Eggner’s Ferry Bridge. This leased land would be used as a state park dedicated to recreation.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Tennessee Valley Authority leased an initial 1,146 acres to Kentucky. After the land transfer was officially completed on March 13, 1948, the new park at Aurora Landing was named Kentucky Lake State <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-x39tr8j4k0Y/VBdASVepSNI/AAAAAAAABfI/df1LEBSSAwg/s1600-h/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520092%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dMxkam47X5w/VBdAS_87vJI/AAAAAAAABfQ/pGOSnbSVjtc/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520092%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" align="left" height="169"></a> Park and joined the commonwealth’s state parks system. By the 1970’s, the name of the park was shortened to “Kenlake State Park.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>In 2013 the Bill Hamrick Memorial Golf Course at Kenlake State Park was permanently closed. Gil Lawson, spokesperson for the Kentucky Department of Parks, said there were a number of factors leading up to the eventual closing of the nine-hole course, including its reduced amount of play, its location in comparison to other available courses and pending reductions to park budgets.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGohwPCq6v6GnevQfIdU6R-uVYG46NCUdRMEkjB72Ct9YiXyTShCjh-vaz1yvggtd2s8jwU93GPNZeihalfvORvXG2iihq1x4-AcSlnwc3c15DAGa_LebFte9g5s1YsWFABAULFD7ub98/s1600-h/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520054%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw5JiyOHEu-PjLYcdKu2kxzLlOP7d-VZuEW39bEjc0irF1pfxwkMeZt9emQAS2vy2ZHtWXiD0VAP9F5UR-CKfjqhe5f2dtwQQDaDq-GEeu4M0kE9vtrokhcGLvsxRjMEQHiq2rdYmAJ8k/?imgmax=800" width="225" align="right" height="170"></a> </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Lawson said, however, the land would not be wasted, as the department is actively searching for something to replace the course. “We are looking at other outdoor uses for the facility,” Lawson said. “We would like to make it something to use” (Murray Ledger and Times). Upon speaking with someone at the front desk of the lodge, I was informed that the trail is open for biking and hiking. I estimate there to be at least two miles of trail.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-92044133734759911132014-09-15T12:31:00.001-07:002014-09-15T12:31:34.724-07:00North Paved Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pt_Gc4RKDgk/VBc-XXUtoxI/AAAAAAAABeE/hYRDx9zhf8c/s1600-h/North%252520Welcome%252520Station%252520Trail%252520013%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Yvr5yAZToO4/VBc-YYz7huI/AAAAAAAABeM/1o94AVy48Do/North%252520Welcome%252520Station%252520Trail%252520013%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" align="right" height="167"></a> The North Welcome Station is the gateway to the Land Between The Lakes and serves as a mini visitor center. You will find regional information, maps, brochures, snacks, and restrooms. The North Welcome Station serves as the main access point to numerous trail systems including the Canal Loop Trail, the North/South Trail; and also the North Paved Trail, which can be hiked all the way to the Hillman Ferry <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QiRV4AdlILs/VBc-Z_iHbOI/AAAAAAAABeU/GHK-PA0h698/s1600-h/North%252520Welcome%252520Station%252520Trail%252520036%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-szq_T5fa5bM/VBc-bTfFxnI/AAAAAAAABec/hihzv5H-RXA/North%252520Welcome%252520Station%252520Trail%252520036%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" align="left" height="170"></a> Campground by connecting with an unmarked trail system which will be noted below.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The North Paved Trail runs parallel to The Trace for an estimated two miles heading south through some wooded areas, past open fields, behind the Nickell Cemetery, and officially terminates at Road # 110. If you walk about one quarter mile<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Qd4HNf2ZQ4U/VBc-dswohXI/AAAAAAAABek/7zOvn2Ds9ws/s1600-h/North%252520Welcome%252520Station%252520Trail%252520075%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iHRaRoCn_Yc/VBc-fb-n73I/AAAAAAAABes/W59gL6gyYK4/North%252520Welcome%252520Station%252520Trail%252520075%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" align="right" height="169"></a> west on Road # 110, you will pick up the unmarked Hillman Ferry Walking and Biking Trail located to the left of the road and accessed via a twenty foot long gravel trail. I include this additional hike, which is an estimated mile in length, as part of the North Paved Trail.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-71362444263591992282014-09-15T12:18:00.001-07:002014-09-15T12:22:21.775-07:00Administration Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-in4dcslUYqM/VBc7gcX6umI/AAAAAAAABdQ/qzQNVf5G56U/s1600-h/LBL%252520Central%252520Trail%252520066%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="LBL Central Trail 066" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="LBL Central Trail 066" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FxtODzF1FSA/VBc7hDY1HOI/AAAAAAAABdU/5EMlTwe4HIs/LBL%252520Central%252520Trail%252520066_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" align="right" height="172"></a> The Golden Pond Visitor Center serves as the information hub at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area. Visitors will find brochures, recreation maps, trail maps, state maps, restrooms, gift shop, children’s play area, a pavilion, trail heads and more.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>An exhibit room of historic photographs and interpretive messages explains the rich heritage of the land and the people who lived “between the rivers.” The exhibit also delves into the construction of the dams on the Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers with the eventual forming of Land Between The Lakes.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vi5x4BUpFHU/VBc7jiuMI2I/AAAAAAAABdg/gTnfd8TzeFo/s1600-h/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520015%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HyOvvFoqCco/VBc7kM_WAcI/AAAAAAAABdo/Jo5S3FF4lyI/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520015%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" align="left" height="168"></a>Visitors will also find Golden Pond as a great place to relax, picnic, and teach your children how to fish. For a small fee, visitors can see a show at the Planetarium on topics that include space exploration, planets, and the night sky. An Observatory sits out back which hosts free Star Parties at dusk from Memorial Day to Labor Day. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Administration Trail can be found by hiking the Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail east. After walking a few hundred yards from the Visitor Center you will come to a “Y” in the trail. The Central Hardwoods <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-MxXGa1bG__w/VBc7li5-yjI/AAAAAAAABdw/dKFYTisVLvA/s1600-h/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520038%252520-%252520LIKE%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VU74gJYEevA/VBc7mW3WDuI/AAAAAAAABd4/GUEDn9bgBWs/Admin%252520Trail%252520%252526%252520Golf%252520Trail%252520038%252520-%252520LIKE_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" align="right" height="169"></a>Scenic Trail goes to the left, and the “unmarked” Administration Trail goes to the right and through a tunnel/underpass.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>This trail is an estimated one and one-half miles, making an out-and-back trip around three miles. The trail loops behind the administration office, goes behind the employee housing, and then continues on to the grounds maintenance buildings. There used to be published maps for the Administration Trail, but they are no longer available and the trail is no longer publicized.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-33679649103340253152013-07-17T11:08:00.001-07:002013-07-17T11:11:47.555-07:00Hillman Heritage Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEIekHIWLBPQehukA7GXXEn-a6uVjZ5DP3yhBISAT_MtSNdOWmd8qi54bntreRn0CvB5wEzMa7y-uPC8sUnGwBF9QyKaoU9f5jc3QmgFGyt0sC234GcHwbfdwaCv8iu-ujjr6rnH50YE/s1600-h/51e6d509_64cf_89%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="51e6d509_64cf_89" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="51e6d509_64cf_89" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-d7uSL2EicJ8/UebdYvSTKCI/AAAAAAAABGo/gRZJGz87Wu0/51e6d509_64cf_89_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="188" height="189"></a> The Hillman Heritage National Recreation Trail located at the Hillman Ferry Campground in the “Land Between The Lakes” is very interesting, having an old stone hut called the Vogle Homestead built around 1872, panoramic views of an abandoned rock quarry, a designated overlook of the lake, and miles of both wooded and lake view trails. This is a scenic hike; however, the drawback is waiting in line at the campground entrance booth to get registered and obtain a temporary hiker’s rear view mirror tag, and having to park a quarter mile away from the trailhead. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The following information is obtained from the “Land Between The Lakes” website (lbl.org): The 5.47 miles of <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BeurTzey5Hw/UebdZ5Df5GI/AAAAAAAABGw/F46DoyEaf4g/s1600-h/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520105%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tM9wyTaaQGo/UebdbEVboFI/AAAAAAAABG4/lWeKjKanpNY/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520105_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="170"></a> trails within the Hillman Ferry Campground woods are listed as a Heritage National Recreation Trail. The trail system often follows old historic roads used by the former Star Lime Works community which was the site of a thriving lime industry that began some time before the Civil War. The community survived through changes in lime works ownership and many economic fluctuations in the production of lime and limestone, until it was disbanded sometime after 1945 due to construction of the Kentucky Lake Reservoir.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8fcqFHCc1ZQ5unVQrc5Zc6ioHtsHwy6MiDOrG9EzGpHydgr6UoWfGBEzRwE-bApLei0qg4fGjppQvk5b7D5CjtkwbpIUsPY-ioT-MdkL9wT7iLcrdzWusY5Cuk88W5mobrLfDvYnBzxg/s1600-h/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520117%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 15px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hxQeHeC2-5Y/UebdgOv9TJI/AAAAAAAABHI/-BIv6wrnnFg/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520117_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="229" height="173"></a></strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Star Lime Works is being recorded as a historic district and the remaining cultural features, landscape, and history are just beginning to be portrayed through interpretive stops along the trail. Current interpretive stops are along Bohanon Loop and Vogle Loop. The trails are open to Hillman campers, as well as the general public, for hiking and biking only. There is a small parking lot on the north (right) side of the Hillman Ferry Campground entrance road, just before the gatehouse, for the general public.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Bohanon Loop is 2 miles in length, and takes you up and over ridgelines and offers users an <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4O1bgeJpKGA/UebdkDXghXI/AAAAAAAABHQ/9ne3bzJYv6c/s1600-h/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520222%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RI4jTQXMGjA/UebdmYAQ22I/AAAAAAAABHY/A-HUc6HPS8A/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520222_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a> excellent opportunity to view wildlife. The Brown Spring Loop is a 0.66-mile trail that winds its way through mature hardwood stands and meanders up and down ridgelines. The James Nickell Loop is 0.48 miles in length and leads hikers to a scenic overlook of Kentucky Lake; the trail follows the ridge top along the edge of Kentucky Lake and then dips back into the bottoms. The Vogle Loop has heritage markers along this 0.94-mile trail that takes you past an old home site and limestone quarry associated with the Star Lime Works District.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-8551402391360455132013-07-17T10:11:00.001-07:002013-07-17T10:19:05.963-07:00Grand Rivers Walking Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hCKfMNAv8K8/UebQNjHrcxI/AAAAAAAABFY/v56X89tG0c4/s1600-h/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520052%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 5px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fnl1LZ4dmS0/UebQOP5-TqI/AAAAAAAABFg/dzG3Jc8_wKs/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520052_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="226" height="176"></a> The Grand Rivers Walking Trail is located in Grand Rivers, Kentucky, which is considered the state’s premier waterfront resort community. With two of the lake region’s finest resort marinas – one on each lake – Grand Rivers offers waterfront cottages and condos and unlimited access to water recreation.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N-oT-BDABM4/UebQPAL6NII/AAAAAAAABFo/yd9fZ7IMDRg/s1600-h/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520035%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5Sv4dEzgsS4/UebQPiePhDI/AAAAAAAABFw/kOSEGw6lgvI/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520035_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" height="167"></a>Connecting the two lakes and the two marinas is the heart of Grand Rivers with the nostalgic Main Street feel of simpler times. The town offers shopping from antiques to boutiques and from bikes to biker apparel. Grand Rivers is made complete with the award winning Patti’s 1880’s Settlement and Restaurant, and the Badgett Playhouse with up to twenty special productions each year.</strong> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--Hd1UNzYqIA/UebQRK6EH-I/AAAAAAAABF4/fo2tTDcM34k/s1600-h/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520021%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 20px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QTmPHq-Ulrw/UebQRg7wICI/AAAAAAAABGA/DgtkxyzrmmA/Grand%252520Rivers%252520%252526%252520Hillman%252520Heritage%252520021_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" height="171"></a> <p align="justify"><strong>In commenting on the walking trail, the Grand Rivers website (www.grandrivers.org) states, “This two mile walking trail takes you from the Jetty at Lighthouse Landing through downtown into Little Lake Park. If you would start at any point along the walking trail and complete the loop from the end of the Jetty to the end of the walking trail by Little Lake you will travel 2.18 miles. You will have ascended 222 feet and descended 231 feet.” </strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4dbKwZHP8Vk/UebQzmTHlnI/AAAAAAAABGI/p9F46t55HhM/s1600-h/Capture%252520%2525282%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img title="Capture (2)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Capture (2)" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXg29kOLsTTUzGBPaUIqwSeq2xJTvvkKkgUtk3sCLSGDLvtlwWNFweDRs_hCCkfgAIwCZ_TPNIyURSw93debN32Y-2Yrs2pxVMvwJulkn21eGiLNjeoqlaBmKjLyIHFYvLtDC27QsdAA/?imgmax=800" width="231" height="172"></a> The Grand Rivers Jetty is located at Lighthouse Landing Resort & Marina on Kentucky Lake. It is named one of the Top 50 Romantic Spots in the Country by <em>Cosmopolitan Magazine.</em> Little Lake Park is located on Commerce Street behind the Badgett Playhouse, and is home to the Grand Rivers Street Dance and the Labor Day Arts & Crafts Festival. The park includes picnic areas and pavilion, bandstand and dance area, basketball court, green space, Little Lake with a small fishing jetty, and playground and parking area.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-13485935408799078512013-07-05T16:20:00.001-07:002013-07-05T16:24:33.552-07:00Jeffers Bend Recreation Area<p align="justify"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYqFXXHngQ85SsJh3r_4Q2Ke_pThOHM2lA_7VVWCAKv_kEWlb88cKclS_dWWbSNW4rik1k-YXJoN1Ioye78UDszdInZI5b_7BikqBafKh5Z6sivBdbWtUtOq-mMLg2nhBE7p_t2rwa_I/s1600-h/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520054%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-M8FAuqd97dU/UddUqPX6jII/AAAAAAAABCI/eQIeSatmiHQ/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520054_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" height="171"></a> Jeffers Bend Recreation Area and Environmental Center is located near downtown Hopkinsville, Kentucky off Highway 41A North at the end of Metcalfe Lane. Jeffers Bend consists of 40-acres of grassland, a 1-acre lake, 2.7 miles of hiking and biking trails, and six buildings which once housed the old Hopkinsville Water Treatment Plant.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Pennyrile Resource Conservation and Development Council formed the North Fork Little River <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-f6vB2wYMh3A/UddUsaOdTBI/AAAAAAAABCQ/tRUhderGLsQ/s1600-h/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520043%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q8UYb_zgj7s/UddUtLTAliI/AAAAAAAABCY/27FSqm0jbsc/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520043_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a> Committee in 1990. Mayor Wally Bryan, being aware of the NFLRC efforts to increase recreation and tourism activities along the river, in the spring of 1995, convened a meeting to talk about saving the old Hopkinsville Water Treatment Plant from demolition for environmental education activities. In August 1997, the groups agreed that the water treatment plant should be saved and developed in memory of former Hopkinsville Mayor, Sherrill L. Jeffers.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>From 2000 to 2002, the Pennyrile Resource Conservation and Development Council secured money from<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Sn_c0Ub0GsI/UddUvRaBjZI/AAAAAAAABCg/bJWU6k-ebRw/s1600-h/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520026%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-41AjwOyohYQ/UddUwQq4LPI/AAAAAAAABCo/sSTYQuVON20/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520026_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="170"></a> various sources totaling $100,400 in order for Gary Burks Construction to install 8,200 feet of compacted gravel trail. A gravel parking lot was installed in 2003. TEA-21 federal money, to be matched on an 80/20 basis by the City of Hopkinsville, was then secured in order to construct about two miles of compacted gravel trails along North Fork of Little River, CSX Railroad, and Metcalfe Lane at Jeffers Bend Environmental Center.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-r3ZuIZeCmYo/UddUyhQoGzI/AAAAAAAABCw/mCcdzJscqdY/s1600-h/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520013%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TYsKS5tmcDk/UddUzryRYGI/AAAAAAAABC4/zZ6W46y46FE/Jeffers%252520Bend%252520013_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" height="171"></a> The trails at Jeffers Bend are suitable for hiking and biking, and the main loop follows alongside the North Fork of the Little River through open fields and woodlands. There are opportunities for fishing, canoeing and bird watching along the trails. The main trail actually heads west out of Jeffers Bend alongside Metcalf Lane in order to tie in with the Hopkinsville Greenway behind the Riverside Cemetery; however, the trail alongside Metcalf Lane is barely distinguishable for lack of maintenance.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-43849660928502331272013-07-04T12:32:00.001-07:002013-07-04T12:38:38.282-07:00Kentucky Dam Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-FS3HfAK3Ijs/UdXNqbaLRbI/AAAAAAAABA4/aZcZTvc0ce0/s1600-h/Kentucky%252520Dam%252520Trail%252520005%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Kentucky Dam Trail 005" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Kentucky Dam Trail 005" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BJnsVkjQqS0/UdXNq6W1nMI/AAAAAAAABBA/m9PNsZhPUcg/Kentucky%252520Dam%252520Trail%252520005_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="179" height="220"></a> The region around Kentucky Dam at one time belonged to the Chickasaw Indians. On October 19, 1818, this portion of western Kentucky was acquired by the United States as part of the Jackson Purchase. This famous land transaction added 8,000 square miles to the states of Kentucky and Tennessee. The Chickasaw received $300,000 over a fifteen-year time period for their lands. Former Kentucky Governor Isaac Shelby and General Andrew Jackson of Tennessee negotiated the purchase with the leaders of the Chickasaw Nation.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had originally made field studies regarding the feasibility of building a dam on <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hX_ILKtG-v0/UdXNr2B4mEI/AAAAAAAABBI/vy8pj7ZdX70/s1600-h/Kentucky%252520Dam%252520Trail%252520001%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnu61qg0Tji8AlVE3DfloYIYtdmUAZs86w8DAmNBsyigIXysVFzX5_hbVS87UucQXORFvf_FIw9e4_U4wvIIzDsaHINZzG72dftGkUSA3iozw2ExSvu2bkoMro5faE_3WmLqEYQykW2I/?imgmax=800" width="223" height="168"></a> the Tennessee River, in the vicinity of Eggner’s Ferry. After the creation of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a new field investigation took place that recommended a dam be built near the town of Gilbertville, Kentucky. On May 28, 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the act to authorize funding for the construction of a new dam on the Tennessee River. At one and a half miles long and 206 feet high, Kentucky Dam is the largest dam built by the TVA.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>On May 19, 1949, the Tennessee Valley Authority officially turned over land to the Kentucky State Parks<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fwgWefnpIQQ/UdXNtGkb1lI/AAAAAAAABBY/xvpjZMVWWW0/s1600-h/Kentucky%252520Dam%252520Trail%252520031%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ObPLfy6FNIk/UdXNtkqpT3I/AAAAAAAABBg/8I4mclaqtWk/Kentucky%252520Dam%252520Trail%252520031_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a> System for the construction of Kentucky Dam Village. Between 1949 and 1955, the state spent over a million and a half dollars updating and improving this state park. Although the park began with a major group of buildings, the need for recreational facilities to make the park a major resort demanded a large infusion of money. A new 18-hole golf course was installed. There is also a convention center which seats 900, and a 4,000 foot lighted runway for light air traffic. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Kentucky Dam Trail system is located on both TVA property and state park land. The Tennessee Valley <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9A-08TEDCpw/UdXNuaWkm_I/AAAAAAAABBo/rNilRFItgQA/s1600-h/Kentucky%252520Dam%252520Trail%252520041%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggFv6iwdG5YCS92hV7jJQzKnvNd_rsmYtLZxbc7CIltGHrCl75Jxk4Jp85pPN5EZHOzo1zkjm2VMoWTBpHkuW8GeA2OdPHVAwdL_CFdKWtJ6ps_5cA_MnmlxTeJyPhMeJ5ZsWUV2kavqE/?imgmax=800" width="221" height="167"></a> Authority constructed a portion of trail across the top of Kentucky Dam by converting an old road. This section is about one mile in length; and the website tva.com/news states that it should eventually cross the entire dam and tie in with the Livingston County Trail System with some additional funding. </strong></p> <p align="justify"><strong>The other section of the trail, which is also about one mile in length, was constructed by the Kentucky State Parks System along the shoreline of Kentucky Lake at Kentucky Dam Village. Both trail sections converge at the parking lot located on New Beach Road, just off of Hwy 641.</strong></p> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-9224471073255173772013-07-02T15:28:00.001-07:002013-07-02T15:34:54.853-07:00Hopkinsville Greenway<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-asYhrRSJW80/UdNUE99ciII/AAAAAAAAA_w/L4ZbeBeHRGM/s1600-h/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520055%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5SEDT-Nm4ZI/UdNUFfYsjNI/AAAAAAAAA_4/g1SUPN207nk/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520055_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="167" height="221"></a> The Hopkinsville Greenway is a concrete walking and biking trail system stretching from behind the City of Hopkinsville Police Department to behind the Hopkinsville Christian County Public Library. The Greenway contains one section which is city sidewalk, another portion which is a converted railroad (rail to trail), and another section which is called the River Walk that follows the North Fork of the Little River. The existing Greenway system is “estimated” at around two miles in length.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>When walking the Greenway, there is another opportunity to increase your mileage and workout. Start heading north from the Police Department on the sidewalk which follows North Main. When you intersect Means Avenue, <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rVWVrsjsXVk/UdNUG6Oux0I/AAAAAAAABAA/8GLmYSoGa8I/s1600-h/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520147%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zeJOBJzYUu0/UdNUHb9-NkI/AAAAAAAABAI/LE9Wt1S3DJQ/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520147_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a> go one block east and begin following the gravel walking trail that runs behind the Riverside Cemetery. At the end of the gravel trail, head east on Metcalf Lane where you will soon intersect the hiking trail system at Jeffers Bend Recreation Area.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Hopkinsville Greenway will soon be expanded with the addition of another three miles of converted railroad, which will tie in with the existing section of rail to trail. Groundbreaking for the phase one <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GzO90xUDr7Y/UdNUIdT29YI/AAAAAAAABAQ/tNznM8VH6FQ/s1600-h/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520017%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HRpsHbZI8AI/UdNUIo6SeKI/AAAAAAAABAY/sEvn9YmDJqQ/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520017_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="171" height="227"></a>expansion took place on Thursday June 27, 2013, according to the Pennyrile Rail Trail Foundation page on Facebook.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>In a recent press conference, Mayor Dan Kemp stated, “We are excited about the tremendous enthusiasm behind this project . . . With over fifty distinct donors, the response to this project has been very positive thanks to the ongoing generosity of our town.” An Internet article states of the Hopkinsville Greenway that “along with other park redevelopments getting underway this summer, this first class rail trail addition will greatly enhance recreational opportunities for local residents and area visitors alike.” </strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cp4bRX6pHOk/UdNUJzWd54I/AAAAAAAABAg/RYnzCUrzD54/s1600-h/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520175%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Hopkinsville Trial and KICCS 175" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 5px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Hopkinsville Trial and KICCS 175" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yvIShldriR8/UdNUKiFPmTI/AAAAAAAABAo/uPzyoFPEBx0/Hopkinsville%252520Trial%252520and%252520KICCS%252520175_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a>This same Internet article elaborates, “An ambitious community development project, the rail trail project includes conversion of a five kilometer abandoned railway corridor into safe, accessible greenway space. This proposed public/private collaboration includes connection to an existing river walk rail trail conversion, development of three trailheads and a neighborhood connector. Offering convenient access to users, the trails will include trailheads established adjacent to parks, trails, pavilions, restrooms, play areas, and playgrounds.”</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-66787226557958401562013-07-01T14:08:00.001-07:002013-07-01T14:12:13.426-07:00Audubon State Park<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-m-aud71levY/UdHv1G7pPnI/AAAAAAAAA9o/duHltiNOuiE/s1600-h/Capture%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Capture" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Capture" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LrI3Ek16tRw/UdHv1llfTxI/AAAAAAAAA9w/j_2tgObzYzI/Capture_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="183" height="181"></a> On October 3, 1934, the Commonwealth of Kentucky dedicated the John James Audubon State Park. Some of the members of the crowd attending the dedication included members of the Henderson Audubon Society. Founded in 1898 to preserve the legacy of the great American artist and naturalist, John James Audubon (1785-1851), the Society had worked for over three decades to establish a fitting memorial.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>In 1930, the Henderson Audubon Society requested $100,000 from the Federal government to help construct an Audubon Museum. A bill introduced in Congress to appropriate money for the Audubon project failed to pass. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwMTJq_ojC2eaqQL5HOBAPRDHsVSXrpeoxaCY_sxeVyq_COSgAZG8njyRzea-TiW4troPv0soERdNWX6kdg0MTsO5MrRAri0pZe8s-XPnsA_B9Mc2ddx44xirVogVwna38NtDvTKo0JU/s1600-h/Audubon%2525201%252520-%252520Hadley-Ives%252520Photos%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Audubon 1 - Hadley-Ives Photos" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Audubon 1 - Hadley-Ives Photos" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMLdkPNFH3-x4ncBERKP_7PGYsc0m1sxJmMFaJQYOwQMem7WE8WCFcV77IjA36olfbsLT6Yf3f902k_CKDAhBSfm2dfJqRZIfYsQ32o_-_rEQMTZ3vOD-fiN3gqK1To0PN9f1gABjXS9A/?imgmax=800" width="223" height="175"></a> Undeterred, local citizens continued to raise funds for the proposed museum. By 1934, 275 acres had been acquired through donations and purchase. Work began on the John James Audubon State Park on October 3, 1938.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Civil Conservation Corps (CCC) Number 1540 constructed cabins, gardens, shelter houses, picnic areas, a lake, trails, and a museum. Architects Donald Corley representing the WPA and Barnard Stebbins of Kentucky designed the Audubon Memorial Museum building. The structure contains many of the artist’s <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jQJHY13ecuc/UdHv33lksGI/AAAAAAAAA-I/aWSTXlrE3-Q/s1600-h/DSC06112%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC06112" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="DSC06112" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_He7NPGpXAc/UdHv4XflDeI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/HVjdnvD9yoQ/DSC06112_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="176" height="229"></a>oils and watercolors, along with personal belongings and furniture belonging to the Audubon family. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>John James Audubon State Park has nearly six miles of hiking trails. The location of this trail system can be deceptive, leading one to believe the routes will traverse gradual slopes and rolling hills. Before I hiked here, I read an Internet article stating that some people use the trails as training for hikes in the Rocky Mountains and the Appalachian Trail; and now I see why. There are numerous steep climbs; making it one of the toughest <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-j_2pFcHFcR8/UdHv5Y9LKjI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/3ry8zuGyee0/s1600-h/DSC00496-Copy%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC00496-Copy" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="DSC00496-Copy" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-huGsqoqgiro/UdHv57fswVI/AAAAAAAAA-g/lqTD4k5wcac/DSC00496-Copy_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a> trails I have hiked in western Kentucky.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>A recent auction purchase by a local group of park supporters of a 649-acre tract of land bordering the park may soon serve to further diversify the recreational accessibility of Audubon. Julie McDonald, the Program Services Supervisor at Audubon, says there is a possibility that the land acquisition would allow for more handicap trail access. There is also potential to significantly expand the existing hiking trail system.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-43995467403154615702013-07-01T13:56:00.001-07:002013-07-01T13:58:37.401-07:00Higginson-Henry WMA<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-XTZN5wsg5hY/UdHs9MO0J5I/AAAAAAAAA8g/6TFhtzAm280/s1600-h/Higg%252520Henry%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Higg Henry" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Higg Henry" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YzL06DSspjQ/UdHs9_R-t-I/AAAAAAAAA8o/B_DK_cWY6_A/Higg%252520Henry_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="187"></a> On December 5, 1942, the United States Army began purchasing properties totaling 36,000 acres in Henderson, Union, and Webster Counties, which became Camp Breckinridge Military Reservation. Part of the land purchased was the Richards Estate, owned by Revolutionary War soldier Lewis Richards. Camp Breckinridge was an active military base during World War II through the Korean War.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lkTBYb57JPI/UdHs-xEVf3I/AAAAAAAAA8w/wuzbZEbrOvE/s1600-h/PICT0075%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--IeJtxpyKyI/UdHs_SGABhI/AAAAAAAAA84/cbvfvffUTa0/PICT0075_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" height="168"></a> In June of 1968, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources purchased 5,424 acres from the United States Army later designated as Higginson-Henry Wildlife Management Area. In was named in memory of George T. Higgins, D.M.D. and C. D. Henry, Kentucky State Police, who died tragically in a boating accident while duck hunting on the Ohio River in 1964.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Higginson-Henry Wildlife Management Area is located along Hwy 56 and Hwy 141 in Union County,<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iWE4hBCak30/UdHtAl-kpLI/AAAAAAAAA9A/jY5E5FLdaG4/s1600-h/PICT0026%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="" align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9AMYLO8IsbQ2HLTKdsxFf9KmSONpJk1LwHqjaPkhmSaRGeL3zlrPYPHIk4B_rCaANjCqqNEXQiaPp6EE4xDCckCB3cTTfqEeWnl2iuDvpXSh9yjAMnnDKtLtivd5I3jXNixNuMpnGZQ/?imgmax=800" width="225" height="170"></a> approximately two miles east of Morganfield, Kentucky. The majority of the 5,424 acre management area, owned by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, is forest land containing small streams and lakes; and has over ten miles of hiking and equestrian trials traversing it. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDcqx0cm8z8vZjBuwNE08wptU1PrHOKT_578Dmif4tKQn5L321pdcylgtAOaqfaCGc3CW9ilM0G1ZA0fB_J6SmXZWQUrnZ_zMkwZR9aZralGSwgVoe4eSprZ5z3WzFCQvefVRNdRN8QcY/s1600-h/41388401_74416d68a7_z%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="41388401_74416d68a7_z" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="41388401_74416d68a7_z" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xKDcNKQy2DmhQyHbd9xKkRlFFRCq4kXDPNSJ9SjZe-gLiTw_hz9C3ghy9D33K8frBze0mGAbzfLPDcpboS1C3Rd6Jlqo3nDT9AdTdDqINEKcUCsjvjtJMshQBh8Mi93uLSeqBOOtCNA/?imgmax=800" width="226" height="174"></a> One of the Area’s main attractions is 82-acre Lake Mauzy, named in memory of Caspian W. Mauzy, Conservation Education Supervisor and Conservation Officer who served in Union County. There is also a Viewing Area and Learning Lab at the Area named in honor of Mr. Lee K. Nelson, retired Wildlife Biologist, Researcher and Author; and there are camp sites for primitive camping located at Lake Mauzy.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-20032657575179056792013-07-01T11:43:00.001-07:002013-07-01T11:48:06.838-07:00Cadiz Walking & Bike Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-n5P1ha2n6pw/UdHNstpyIRI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/u9xCtTF6hWk/s1600-h/Cadiz%252520Hike%252520Bike%252520Trail%252520024%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cadiz Hike Bike Trail 024" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Cadiz Hike Bike Trail 024" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e9XLMk7wWfU/UdHNtDteH-I/AAAAAAAAA7g/tLFVWSOmcko/Cadiz%252520Hike%252520Bike%252520Trail%252520024_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="220" height="166"></a> The Cadiz Walking & Bike Trail is located along the Little River in downtown Cadiz, Kentucky; extending from the Old U.S. 68 hill behind the town band stand, to the Army Core of Engineers “Cadiz Recreation Area” park, all the way around to the Cadiz Sewer Treatment Plant on Franklin Street. The actual sign for the trail is found near the Cadiz Water Works on Albert Street; however, this sign is located near the halfway point of the hike. I would recommend starting behind the town band stand and descending the Old <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QW8CvWUTtd0/UdHNuG0W8pI/AAAAAAAAA7o/cL7qMIsiQoI/s1600-h/73374765%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="73374765" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="73374765" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uRLf4rJzJdE/UdHNuqcva5I/AAAAAAAAA7w/1CG46LpUiOI/73374765_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" height="167"></a> U.S. 68 hill.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>This trail is comprised of sections of blacktop, gravel, and dirt. The blacktop portion is along the Old U.S. 68 route. From there, and heading west, the trail is dirt until you reach the old Cadiz Water Works ruins and city spring. You will then cross a walking bridge and pick up the gravel section, which heads west under the Hwy 139 bridge until you reach the public fishing dock. From there, the trail is more of a dirt four-wheeler path onward to the Cadiz <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qvTo2l0GlM8/UdHNwEW2sNI/AAAAAAAAA74/l6xD_7hfXIY/s1600-h/Cadiz%252520Hike%252520Bike%252520Trail%252520030%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cadiz Hike Bike Trail 030" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Cadiz Hike Bike Trail 030" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jgahhAEGO6U/UdHNwrBPk4I/AAAAAAAAA8A/9FTVNGgzEFw/Cadiz%252520Hike%252520Bike%252520Trail%252520030_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a>Recreation Area and beyond until you arrive at the Sewer Treatment Plant. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>I spoke with an employee of the Cadiz Water Works who said the trail was originally planned and paid for by a grant and volunteer labor many years ago. The trail has been highly overlooked, since the addition of the Cadiz Railroad Trail, and is now somewhat run down. Since the trail is located along the Little River, it gets flooded at certain times of the year, washing away the gravel. It is also being abused by unsanctioned four-wheeler use. In fact, the far western portion of the trail, leading to <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XdZ80aMybjk/UdHNx3rMIhI/AAAAAAAAA8I/5EWWlU5yDAM/s1600-h/Cadiz%252520Hike%252520Bike%252520Trail%252520038%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cadiz Hike Bike Trail 038" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Cadiz Hike Bike Trail 038" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zNfExE9NU4c/UdHNyUIezGI/AAAAAAAAA8Q/e8sEe4U5atA/Cadiz%252520Hike%252520Bike%252520Trail%252520038_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a>the Sewer Treatment Plant is primarily a dirt four-wheeler path.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>With all its drawbacks, the Cadiz Walking & Bike Trail is a scenic place to hike. It provides a wilderness feel right in the heart of town, without having to drive ten to twenty miles to reach one of the nearby state parks. With a good volunteer team and some rules prohibiting unsanctioned four-wheeler traffic, this trail could become really nice.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-82983021554011690182013-07-01T11:31:00.001-07:002013-07-01T11:37:36.285-07:00Livingston County Trail System<p align="justify"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItZkEodD5dl4KYumjUzqT130-A4yEfp-FvqxvwEE7FqeO-1aQ-7JGbNuOMTp7N8CB8TdeBA68qGmvVOwgmiIqdmGipJ1rX37G_djJh2gvQOtDuPa7YNmDjDKDNENV8ecgocwbWFCHb_A/s1600-h/Horse%252520Painting%252520%252526%252520Heron%252520Pond%252520136%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Horse Painting & Heron Pond 136" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Horse Painting & Heron Pond 136" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o5SXkI3lA4U/UdHK-A9TZeI/AAAAAAAAA6o/Wniwj2GzdhU/Horse%252520Painting%252520%252526%252520Heron%252520Pond%252520136_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="170"></a> The Livingston County Trail System is located immediately south of I-24 off of KY 453 on the right hand side of the road. It is behind the “Cheers” gas station and convenience store, and behind the “America’s Best Value Inn” on Lodge Road. There are two main parking areas: one is located next to the “Exit 31 RV Park,” and the other is directly behind the “America’s Best Value Inn.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VRBIaqmIqy4/UdHK_YvoZRI/AAAAAAAAA6w/S0Gzf2UYiek/s1600-h/Horse%252520Painting%252520%252526%252520Heron%252520Pond%252520125%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Horse Painting & Heron Pond 125" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Horse Painting & Heron Pond 125" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5y9q3dXogEM/UdHK_w9lnbI/AAAAAAAAA64/X8w5JcwcgbE/Horse%252520Painting%252520%252526%252520Heron%252520Pond%252520125_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="229" height="173"></a>The main Blue Trail is a two-mile loop hiking trail that consists of hard pack gravel. It is interconnected with the three-mile long Green Bike Trail, which is paved and also handicap accessible. By taking a detour at the half way point along the Blue Trail, by following the paved Green<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-H2ZUGiSq6cM/UdHLAvfeg-I/AAAAAAAAA7A/_1hWZwj2oqo/s1600-h/Horse%252520Painting%252520%252526%252520Heron%252520Pond%252520092%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Horse Painting & Heron Pond 092" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Horse Painting & Heron Pond 092" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1_mxVuUjcxU/UdHLBGuH91I/AAAAAAAAA7I/jA76Q6jA-m4/Horse%252520Painting%252520%252526%252520Heron%252520Pond%252520092_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="169" height="224"></a> Bike Trail toward the south, you can view the old “Indian Burial Ground.” There will be signs to direct you there. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Blue Trail begins by meandering along a ridge line before opening up into a field, with a view of the United States Flag atop a 60 foot pole, and also a view of the I-24 Bridge over the Cumberland River. The trail then loops down and back up through an old cemetery, climbing another ridge before descending to the other parking area. In order to complete the loop, you must walk east on Lodge Road, and then work your way to the back parking lot of “America’s Best Value Inn.”</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-6583818811845567162013-07-01T11:21:00.001-07:002013-07-01T11:24:36.651-07:00Kenlake State Park<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pPnnO7MBqGk/UdHIsUWHF_I/AAAAAAAAA5o/TBtt1CXb9nU/s1600-h/Kenlake%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Kenlake" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Kenlake" align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzn-dYfqdPXKAVfS2d-WT0K0UilS79vOgaDJBWT3Ojf-nxqVOEMICdZcMS4bH0dMrQQLMrvn1vaC1J40l7AVnaCQVR4s21xC6PcPRrdtXBiQWQ31IaX2QIktEoq6K2GVQ4M50I80Szq20/?imgmax=800" width="185" height="185"></a> The Commonwealth of Kentucky began negotiations with the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1946 to lease a portion of land known as Aurora Landing. The land was situated on the western shore of Kentucky Lake near the Eggner’s Ferry Bridge. This leased land would be used as a state park dedicated to recreation. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong> The Tennessee Valley Authority leased an initial 1,146 acres to Kentucky. After the land transfer was officially completed on March 13, 1948, the new park at Aurora Landing was named <strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M0SmDImmzJc/UdHIuUac7uI/AAAAAAAAA54/QRO5VZOfYe0/s1600-h/Horse%252520Painting%252520and%252520Kenlake%252520Hike%252520007%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Horse Painting and Kenlake Hike 007" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Horse Painting and Kenlake Hike 007" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-m5bf0dRa8kE/UdHIuw5h7LI/AAAAAAAAA6A/dVKDPv2Wqls/Horse%252520Painting%252520and%252520Kenlake%252520Hike%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" height="172"></a></strong>Kentucky Lake State Park and joined the commonwealth’s state parks system. By the 1970’s, the name of the park was shortened to “Kenlake State Park.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Kenlake State Resort Park has two short hiking trails; the 0.7-mile-long Cherokee Trail and the 1-mile-long Chickasaw Trail. The blog “My Own 100 Hikes” elaborates on how the names of these two trails are derived from the Chickasaw Indians who once lived here, and the Cherokee<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LnVTCsMG5pA/UdHIxKwg4eI/AAAAAAAAA6I/7swiM2Yo6ZU/s1600-h/Horse%252520Painting%252520and%252520Kenlake%252520Hike%252520077%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Horse Painting and Kenlake Hike 077" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Horse Painting and Kenlake Hike 077" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RisH5bsoOvE/UdHIxnQxIYI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/ILltdckryss/Horse%252520Painting%252520and%252520Kenlake%252520Hike%252520077_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="227" height="171"></a> Indians who walked through this area during the Trail of Tears march from Georgia to Oklahoma.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>In addition to the two long-established marked trails, one can also walk the paved trails of the recently closed nine-hole golf course. There are also some other short trails located near the eastern amphitheater area of the park.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-29976818795120008572013-07-01T11:00:00.001-07:002013-07-01T11:10:04.375-07:00Canal Loop Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bMegQldFF0I/UdHDlY1S3oI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/MlNMbvO4_Fc/s1600-h/Canal%252520Loop%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Canal Loop" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Canal Loop" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ey1YlIW0lyU/UdHDl5-mYzI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/wi9letxGp_Q/Canal%252520Loop_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="181"></a> In the 1960’s a canal was constructed between Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, thus making the “Land Between The Lakes” the largest inland peninsula in the United States. This canal is located immediately south of the small town of Grand Rivers, Kentucky. Heading south of the canal on Hwy 453, also known as the <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XOyMZzTMr_Y/UdHDmxF-l8I/AAAAAAAAA5E/AOWCDRnkQ_Q/s1600-h/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520095%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 095" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 095" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lWt2KMX0CiE/UdHDnrYhGPI/AAAAAAAAA5M/Ra6gPo2NlzU/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520095_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="170"></a>Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, you will encounter the North Welcome Station. Here, just to the east of the parking lot, you will locate the main trailhead leading to the Canal Loop Trail.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Canal Loop Trail is a 14.2 mile trail system that includes four connector<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SHhC-7H0vP0/UdHDpoUtIEI/AAAAAAAAA5U/EqOs1clc4bE/s1600-h/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520120%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 120" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 120" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fZ_tNi76lq4/UdHDqIhY90I/AAAAAAAAA5c/Q8zl-qTEY_M/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520120_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="170"></a> trails. The section located to the west of the North Welcome Station provides some of the most scenic vistas in the park. In this section you will find some steep climbs and switchbacks leading to a high bluff overlooking Kentucky Lake. The Canal Loop Trail is highly trafficked by hikers and mountain bikers; therefore, having less weeds and tall grass, providing a clear and wide trail to hike if you are wishing to stay clear of those pesky ticks and critters.</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-88619661133238609172013-07-01T10:44:00.001-07:002013-07-01T10:52:07.207-07:00Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ajpC84_aEfQ/UdG__pcHn7I/AAAAAAAAA24/TGrFFkc6Oso/s1600-h/LBL%252520Central%252520Trail%252520039%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="LBL Central Trail 039" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="LBL Central Trail 039" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-n7Z9iSWT8Nc/UdHAACgoPeI/AAAAAAAAA3A/mhQF6bu32pE/LBL%252520Central%252520Trail%252520039_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" height="168"></a> The Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail runs parallel to US 68 and KY 80, east and west between Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, providing an opportunity for a twelve mile long “bridge-to-bridge” hike or bike ride. This trail is the result of a mitigation project for the completed four-lane highway. Trails Unlimited, one of the Forest Service’s seventeen Enterprise Units, helped design and construct the trail. A Land Between The Lakes press release shares the following information about this trail:</strong></p> <p align="justify"><strong>“We designed this family-friendly trail with smooth surfaces, gentle grades, and trailside rest areas,” stated <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dpBJ9tw3PNs/UdHABqT-lnI/AAAAAAAAA3I/Ll0krVb1TwE/s1600-h/LBL%252520Central%252520Trail%252520051%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="LBL Central Trail 051" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="LBL Central Trail 051" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjkTBtdsqL-ceNFc2HEybqsJv2ZPZNnueViHT5iLpPvbHeHFLmex-mFvAEF4ErHE8NqRLhLwjNJeuBHg6g4JtmCXML-bHnAqYuMqByHamBFFaffzckycDakmUuN6dMQFZtJr_uQn1qufI/?imgmax=800" width="223" height="168"></a>Bill Ryan, ‘Land Between The Lakes’ Trails Manager. “The paved 3.2 miles of the eastern portion of the trail provides shoreline views of Lake Barkley as well as wildlife viewing opportunities in adjacent open areas. The 8.5 miles of the central and western portions were developed using a compacted stone surface. Here, visitors will explore rolling hills and ridge tops of a central hardwood forest ecosystem.” Ryan added, “Seven access points give visitors multiple opportunities to bike and hike different sections of the Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail.” <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jpsTANYZ9MY/UdHADE006lI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/5LsL6DGH6-M/s1600-h/LBL%252520Central%252520Trail%252520035%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="LBL Central Trail 035" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 20px 0px 0px 10px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="LBL Central Trail 035" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GquE3oL0wY4/UdHADk6x6NI/AAAAAAAAA3g/q3XL1NwdiEo/LBL%252520Central%252520Trail%252520035_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="168" height="223"></a></strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The same press release also states: Visitors will enjoy a variety of seasonal and scenic diversity along the six foot wide Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail. Spring and summer showcase vibrant wildflowers, lush plants, and a canopy provided by the hardwood trees. Fall and winter give way to an array of colors, as well as deep woodland views from ridges and narrow valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts will also encounter twelve bridges along the trail. Come outside and play at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area! </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>I spoke with a trail worker while on a recent hike, and discovered some information little known to the public. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-h8y1KjDDlNk/UdHAESr-6TI/AAAAAAAAA34/wimRDsRt3u0/s1600-h/LBL%252520Trail%252520Eastern%252520001%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="LBL Trail Eastern 001" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline" border="0" alt="LBL Trail Eastern 001" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jUVqY0BEMyc/UdHAE8BRRFI/AAAAAAAAA4A/S5MxzXIfOTk/LBL%252520Trail%252520Eastern%252520001_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="169"></a>When the new bridges over Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley are completed, they will include a special side-lane which will extend the Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail across both lakes. In fact, I was told that plans are in the makings to extend the trail to Kenlake State Park to the west, and to Lake Barkley State Park to the east. This future expansion will add nearly ten more miles to the trail; not to mention, create a vacation haven for hikers and bikers!</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-87100800569957058852012-09-25T14:10:00.001-07:002013-11-26T16:02:49.899-08:00Anderson Woodland Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-VakY6tn_lnw/UGIdlOkv7MI/AAAAAAAAAsw/dbOYuXL_RHI/s1600-h/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520077%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 077" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 077" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tI3g6f9htYQ/UGIdmS8bgZI/AAAAAAAAAs4/-gmgxd03U-w/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520077_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="218" align="right" height="165"></a> The Anderson Woodland Trail can be accessed at an Army Corps of Engineers recreation facility found in historic old Kuttawa. The website “Recreation.Gov” describes this location as follows: “Old Kuttawa Recreation Area is on the northern shores of Lake Barkley, near the narrow canal linking it to Kentucky Lake. Together, these two reservoirs combine to create one of the greatest freshwater recreation areas in the country. Take pleasure in a day of picnicking or soak up the sun at the swimming beach; either way, old Kuttawa provides an ideal setting to enjoy nature at its best.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The “National Recreation Trails” website describes the amenities that can <strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uelS3O76QL8/UGIdoKF5AcI/AAAAAAAAAtA/WX1S1XOa6yQ/s1600-h/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520075%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 075" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 075" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-a4RvLvSI390/UGIdpabgvOI/AAAAAAAAAtI/nEQmAKMvW3o/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520075_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="223" align="left" height="168"></a></strong>be utilized at the time of your walk along the Anderson Woodland Trail: “There are several picnic tables and grills along the trail for you to enjoy a small cookout or picnic. Adjacent to the trail is the Old Kuttawa Recreation Area, consisting of a public swimming area, swings, playground equipment, horse shoe pits, volleyball court, two restroom buildings, along with additional picnicking areas. The recreation area also offers two picnic shelters that may be reserved.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3KiHR7PuZU0/UGIdqwhCz7I/AAAAAAAAAtQ/yNFxBz_x35g/s1600-h/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520064%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 064" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 064" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7vb78A2D2MY/UGIdrT3nVTI/AAAAAAAAAtY/0qqmG-V_qSg/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520064_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="171" align="right" height="227"></a>The Anderson Woodland Trail is one-third of a mile in length. It is a concrete trail and handicapped accessible; and it has a change in elevation of about fifty feet. The path “is a short scenic trail, accessible and completely shaded. It reveals some of Lake Barkley’s most scenic views. It consists of one main loop with a short walkway leading to an overlook. You can use the overlook to view the Kentucky State Penitentiary, also known as the Castle on the Cumberland; or just relax for a moment and enjoy the refreshing breeze off the lake” (National Recreation Trails).</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The “Reserve America” website states, “The half-mile Anderson Woodland Trail is an enjoyable footpath for birding and viewing the great tall trees of the region.” If you are looking for an extensive hike, however, this is not t<strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qsl51DQVFs0/UGIdtWvK9TI/AAAAAAAAAtg/UEA13hAYcOA/s1600-h/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520067%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 067" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Homeplace, Kuttawa, LBL 067" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9DldiJLr6PY/UGIdt3ui_cI/AAAAAAAAAto/ywO9XIvAhmc/Homeplace%25252C%252520Kuttawa%25252C%252520LBL%252520067_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="221" align="left" height="167"></a></strong>he place. There is an access to the two-mile long Kuttawa Nature Trail located adjacent to the entrance of the Old Kuttawa Recreation Area; and I would recommend combining these two trails if you are looking to add some mileage. Afterward, you may wish to check out historic Kuttawa. You will come away from a day of hiking and sightseeing feeling very relaxed. Please be respectful of this public park and walking trail, and remember to “take only pictures” and “leave only footprints.”</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-8118523827608462672012-09-20T13:23:00.001-07:002013-11-26T16:06:07.802-08:00Cadiz Railroad Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ox2sy1cd1ks/UFt7IvCQxTI/AAAAAAAAAq0/XnV0G2g3bfA/s1600-h/Cadiz%252520Rail%252520Trail%252520053%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cadiz Rail Trail 053" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Cadiz Rail Trail 053" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpnR12U1q3bDzKfwZJ5iKLkeZky85sVwvUP1B57OYX3mJYlWk8uEE54Y9q8hyphenhyphensBveND-GGJoTkHfiGG_rIzK486MOiZIi2Q0Ba031VpPEkjRkRCkvK-5BpLMvd953yJuCPYGr14l11EY/?imgmax=800" width="216" align="right" height="171"></a> The Cadiz Railroad was completed just after the turn of the twentieth century. The railroad was a spur off the Illinois Central Gulf Railroad in nearby Gracey, Kentucky; however, the line was abandoned around 1990. Since then, the tracks have been removed from Gracey to Cadiz, and all that now remains is the old Cadiz Railroad locomotive and tracks just west of Interstate 24 on U.S. Highway 68. The Illinois Central Gulf Railroad still passes through the northeastern part of Trigg County; however, it does not service Cadiz.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Cadiz Railroad was not a vast trans-continental network, but a small railroad company that operated over 10.33 miles of track between Cadiz and Gracey. Across the tobacco fields and grazing lands, Gracey is <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jTjdcTky4BY/UFt7Lj93_CI/AAAAAAAAArE/mKSEefc9lhU/s1600-h/Cadiz%252520Rail%252520Trail%252520035%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cadiz Rail Trail 035" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Cadiz Rail Trail 035" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r--HiMrjgeM/UFt7MuYv4AI/AAAAAAAAArM/rVtle7a3ft8/Cadiz%252520Rail%252520Trail%252520035_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" align="left" height="169"></a> no more than eight miles from the Trigg county seat; but back in 1901 when the line was organized, a company had to possess more than ten miles of track to be classified officially as a railroad. Therefore, William C. White, the founder, constructed two extra miles of curves to push the line over the ten-mile-long minimum. He didn’t want anyone to say that Cadiz didn’t have a railroad.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Cadiz Railroad made its last run in 1988. Stanley White, the grandson of the railroad’s first president, donated the right-of-way to the Trigg County government for the construction of a recreation trail. The trail was dedicated in 1989, making it the first rail trail in the history of Kentucky.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wE5fkU1F_VM/UFt7N5fHQTI/AAAAAAAAArU/tYto8X6pahI/s1600-h/Cadiz%252520Rail%252520Trail%252520024%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Cadiz Rail Trail 024" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Cadiz Rail Trail 024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yPE4ssqa4Yo/UFt7Q50hwXI/AAAAAAAAArc/uteSe0PfV-w/Cadiz%252520Rail%252520Trail%252520024_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="166" align="right" height="233"></a> The Cadiz Railroad Trail is one of 1600 rail trails supported by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, a nonprofit organization that is working to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Cadiz Railroad Trail runs for 2.5 miles between an old railroad depot on state Highway 139 and Fortner Drive at the east end of town. The trail parallels Noel Drive and Lafayette Street, following an old corridor of the Cadiz Railroad. The surface is asphalt, and it is used for hiking, jogging, bicycling, rollerblading, and skateboarding. A good five-mile hike can be obtained by walking the trail in both directions. Most of the trail passes through neighborhoods; however, the east section is surrounded by a small stretch of farmland, and the western part passes through a secluded tunnel of trees and follows a deep ravine. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pVDIFtGdaVc/UFukVmtj9MI/AAAAAAAAAsM/pCnVw3iWFD0/s1600-h/Cadiz%252520Rail%252520Trail%252520051.jpg"><img title="Cadiz Rail Trail 051" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Cadiz Rail Trail 051" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-U9nBFF_xnv0/UFt7TMlIj8I/AAAAAAAAAsU/HqwGsivc-Ic/Cadiz%252520Rail%252520Trail%252520051_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="228" align="left" height="169"></a>The Cadiz Railroad Trail does not offer tall mountains, massive bluffs or the seclusion of a lush forest; however, you will come away from a long hike feeling relaxed and like you achieved a good workout. Midway through your walk you may wish to check out the local sights and culture of downtown Cadiz, or perhaps browse through one of the numerous antique shops. While walking on the trail, please be respectful of the many trailside homes and businesses; and remember to “take only pictures” and “leave only footprints.”</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-70906043542334308372012-09-15T14:26:00.001-07:002013-11-26T16:08:14.135-08:00Kuttawa Nature Trail<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tC7mVjQ9kqo/UFTyZf0Y_uI/AAAAAAAAApE/4EfTKr_ph8M/s1600-h/Capture%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Capture" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Capture" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EfuttEbsaFs/UFTyaFrtjoI/AAAAAAAAApM/8PmTE3wNPus/Capture_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="172" align="right" height="172"></a> Kuttawa is a Shawnee word meaning “beautiful,” and upon visiting one can easily see how the area inspired its name. The original town site was established by Charles Anderson, who was once the Governor of Ohio; and a man influential in constructing the Elizabethtown and Paducah Railroad, which is now the Louisville division of the Illinois Central Railroad. Anderson was also a strong supporter of African-American rights. Kuttawa became a widely known resort town and served religious, political and social functions until its demise upon the construction of Lake Barkley.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong> <strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E6c1gs9RDN4/UFTybzGHe1I/AAAAAAAAAqU/8n6oRPqky8A/s1600-h/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520010%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Vista Ridge Trail 010" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Vista Ridge Trail 010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-1GrksPWvP8Y/UFTycQujuWI/AAAAAAAAAqY/kVL2ONttqmA/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520010_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="220" align="left" height="166"></a></strong>On a blog site called “Genealogy, Middle Age and Life,” the beginning of Kuttawa is stated as follows: “One mile northwest of Kuttawa there was a cluster of five mineral springs within five hundred feet of each other. At this spot, there was a beautiful valley on the east side of Knob Creek, and on the west side a gently sloping hillside. This was an ideal place for a resort. A group of businessmen formed the Kuttawa Springs Corporation. A hotel was constructed in 1909 and people came from far and near to relax in the shade and drink and bathe in the mineral waters.” </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The website “Land Between the Lakes Guide” states, “There are many trails throughout the area designed for you to take advantage of the stupendous scenery and the wide<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QNK7FvL8AMY/UFTyd_sNMEI/AAAAAAAAApk/kuzpkVOObnA/s1600-h/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520044%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Vista Ridge Trail 044" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Vista Ridge Trail 044" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QxsAIornrZM/UFTyfG2yuZI/AAAAAAAAAps/BY_13breq3U/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520044_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="165" align="right" height="219"></a> variety of wildlife. Hiking is a particularly good way of seeing the beauty of this area, and if you head to the northern end of Lake Barkley and the town of Kuttawa you’ll find some great trails, as well as being able to enjoy the attractions of the town and its immediate area. The trails around Kuttawa are ideal for everyone; whether you’re a seasoned walker or just an enthusiastic ambler.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>There is a well-groomed nature path in Kuttawa that runs the entire length of “Vista Ridge.” This landform is one of the tallest ridges found along the shore of Lake Barkley, rising nearly two hundred feet in elevation from base to summit, offering unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding region. A plaque located at each trailhead calls this the “Vista Ridge Park Walking and Bicycle Trail.” There is also an inscription on this plaque with the city of Kuttawa offering thanks to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the Kuttawa Relocation Foundation for their financial assistance.</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBrE57kWLqkOwK85ok8oFGs3iPVl9XFzTELKLEv-bBU7hubxBHS1Y4SdJNNoyrK05-E47EdbeeMV1bTqCllbuR1x2GSLpJMDECsI67QXvbRvWD3IAZaJKBg4TZjYEXNWeZiLGFzw4R96w/s1600-h/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520026%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Vista Ridge Trail 026" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Vista Ridge Trail 026" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tD5NnshvCSA/UFTyhnB8hXI/AAAAAAAAAp8/H_EVsZl89Ac/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520026_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="217" align="left" height="164"></a>The Vista Ridge Park Walking and Bicycle Trail is also known as the “Kuttawa Nature Trail.” The website “Land Between the Lakes Guide” provides the following description: “The Kuttawa Nature Trail starts on Lake Barkley Drive in old Kuttawa just across from the public boat ramp, and continues for [two] peaceful miles through the mountains. This trail is a chance to see a huge variety of trees, maybe up to forty different species, and also nesting warblers, vireos and wild turkeys; and if you’re lucky you’ll see Canadian geese and deer.”</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>The Kuttawa Nature Trail offers hikers the chance to climb one of the <strong><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-6pz3hOvza20/UFTyi2z3SPI/AAAAAAAAAqE/GGC5S28fBNc/s1600-h/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520063%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Vista Ridge Trail 063" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Vista Ridge Trail 063" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GQn-SUzCkKo/UFTyjrMmKKI/AAAAAAAAAqM/UGLTNkOXzXA/Vista%252520Ridge%252520Trail%252520063_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="219" align="right" height="165"></a></strong></strong>tallest ridges in the surrounding area overlooking Lake Barkley, and to encounter panoramic lake views and tranquil woods. Afterward, you may wish to check out historic Kuttawa. You will find this town to be very beautiful with a marina and harbour-side restaurant, and a sandy public beach with bathrooms, grills and picnic tables. You will come away from a day of hiking and sightseeing in Kuttawa feeling very relaxed. Please be respectful of the natural beauty and wildlife as you visit this public park and hiking trail, and remember to “take only pictures” and “leave only footprints.”</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9064734395514099530.post-1487232262321553762012-09-14T17:43:00.001-07:002013-11-26T16:10:13.805-08:00Energy Lake Trails<p align="justify"><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-mfGKLeUJ9tg/UFPPH0lHwFI/AAAAAAAAAnY/1sIZiJberNg/s1600-h/Capture%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="Capture" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Capture" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHF701SeU4IHGzekKj3bgwSqITSHwURzPNLaQxdyX3BAk87sNMhx5TslYQD8A9UpsHQcbPqRhFzm4xv0GbSLhls5EE3ITOXXIWHFmqGlWO_bvIQHZtKXD1lwlakZp1F7Q8tIbvu4hWvpc/?imgmax=800" width="177" align="right" height="178"></a> Information on Energy Lake is somewhat scarce; however, I have discovered one author who has written somewhat extensively on the area, and his name is Johnny Molloy. I will be drawing a great deal of information from his book entitled <i>Land Between the Lakes Outdoor Recreation Handbook</i>, as I write this overview and brief description of the Energy Lake Campground and trail system. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Energy Lake is a quiet 370 acre inlet separated from Lake Barkley by Energy Dam, and it lies near the former community of Boardinghouse Hollow. Molloy elaborates on the vicinity near Energy Lake, saying, “Many residents lived in what was known as ‘Between the Rivers’ long before the Tennessee and Cumberland were dammed, long before TVA purchased the land, and long before the U. S. Forest Service came to <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gtdwLoY9CVk/UFPPKkVCLsI/AAAAAAAAAoY/lVOdSZOu1uc/s1600-h/Energy%252520Lake%252520Hike%252520060%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Energy Lake Hike 060" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Energy Lake Hike 060" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TXDfWJuow_0/UFPPLXgmmzI/AAAAAAAAAoc/cAeUx0vtIU8/Energy%252520Lake%252520Hike%252520060_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="212" align="left" height="160"></a>manage this recreation area. Roads were poor and stores were few. Residents often bought goods from men who drove trucks and made the rounds of these forgotten hollows, selling everything from perfume to hoes” (<i>Land Between the Lakes</i>, p. 70).</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Energy Lake Campground features an archery range, orienteering course, campfire theater, basketball court, playground, and canoe and kayak rentals. Boat access to Energy Lake and nearby Lake Barkley is from a boat ramp just outside the campground. Some campsites enjoy a scenic view of Energy Lake. All sites are tucked in among hickory, oak, sweet gum, sycamore, popular, and maple trees. The abundance of water, fish, and trees also attract a wide variety of bird life including herons and bald eagles. </strong> <p align="justify"><strong><strong><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-j2khSay3klE/UFPPNGtDU6I/AAAAAAAAAog/_0SjRVpDP7M/s1600-h/Energy%252520Lake%252520Hike%252520064%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Energy Lake Hike 064" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 10px 0px 0px 10px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Energy Lake Hike 064" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uPRbWFlx_JE/UFPPN8KKuMI/AAAAAAAAAok/ZZ-EhtbiHig/Energy%252520Lake%252520Hike%252520064_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="207" align="right" height="156"></a></strong>Energy Lake Campground contains its own trail system. Johnny Molloy, in another book called <i>The Best in Tent Camping</i>, says, “Two loop trails totaling more than six miles can be accessed right from your campsite. They wind and roll all over this hilly country” (p. 24). He also states, “A figure-eight double loop trail emanates from Energy Lake Campground. These trails are most often used by campers at Energy Lake, but are not exclusively for their use. The trails are hilly, but the vertical variation adds an exercise component to the attractive scenery of the lower Crooked Creek Valley” (<i>Land Between the Lakes</i>, p. 70).</strong> <p align="justify"><strong>Molloy continues to describe, “This is a good trail. It makes for a challenging hike as the path winds through remote hills, alongside Crooked Creek Bay, then Shaw Branch Bay, and back to Energy Lake Campground with the help of the Connector Trail. Being little used, the trail tread is not developed, making it hard to follow at times, although the path is well blazed” (<i>Land Between the Lakes</i>, p. 70).</strong> <p align="justify"><strong><strong><strong><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ipkrjyew4i0/UFPPPN8G3xI/AAAAAAAAAoo/9yFghOqydWM/s1600-h/Energy%252520Lake%252520Hike%252520002%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Energy Lake Hike 002" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin: 5px 10px 0px 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Energy Lake Hike 002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AatL7yO0IIw/UFPPPu5qYjI/AAAAAAAAAos/tLJxB98ZLS8/Energy%252520Lake%252520Hike%252520002_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="217" align="left" height="163"></a></strong></strong>The trails at Energy Lake Campground do not offer tall mountains, massive bluffs or intriguing rock formations; however, you will encounter picturesque lake views and peaceful woods. You will come away from a day of hiking and sightseeing feeling accomplished and relaxed; and the best part is that the hiking is absolutely free. Please be respectful of the natural beauty and wildlife as you visit this national recreation area, and remember to “take only pictures” and “leave only footprints.”</strong> Woodland Trekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13126659501507422036noreply@blogger.com