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 
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.
The Canal Loop Trail is a 14.2 mile trail system that includes four connector
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.
