Singletrack.net

Location(s)

Difficulty Level

Easy

Details

This popular section of the Sheltowee Trace runs 8.5 miles long from the intersection of HWY 192 and KY 1193 to the Dam at Laurel Lake. Parking is available at either end as well as a few spots near the middle. At both ends the trail is mostly singletrack with a short technical rocky section within the first few miles. The middle of the trail is wide enough to pass as well as pull a small trailer and is dirt with pea sized gravel. The trail is typically ridden as an out an back for a total of about 17 miles. With lots of parking locations other options and distances are possible.

This trail drains very well and is usually rideable right after a rain with only a few spots that will become muddy. Numerous creek crossings, most of which have wooden or stone bridges help with erosion and keeping the trail dry. A couple of smaller crossings do not have bridges. Much of the trail follows along side the lake with nice views from the wooded shore line. A few road crossings are necessary to ride the entire length of this section. Always watch out for traffic when crossing roads.

Directions

Take I-75 to London exit 32 HWY 192 and head west towards Laurel Lake. At the KY 1193 fork there is a dirt and gravel parking area on the left with a large wooden DBNF Sheltowee Trace sign. This section of the Sheltowee starts in the east end of the parking are to the right of the map kiosk.

It is recommended that beginners and families head down KY 1193 towards the dam and park near the middle of the trail in the small parking lot on the left or at the lot on the right just before going over the dam. See map attached below for parking lot markers and help with directions. The parking lot in the middle will have a Sheltowee Trace Trail marker at the entrance of the trail.

Contact Info

Call the DBNF London District Office at 606-864-4163 or visit their website for more info.