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.
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.”
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
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.”
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.
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.”
The Kuttawa Nature Trail offers hikers the chance to climb one of the 
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.”
