Some of Kentucky’s most historically magnificent places are tucked away along its hundreds of miles of hiking trails.   The Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail is one such trail that has much to offer any person interested in any form of Kentucky nature.  For the leisurely hiker, one will find brisk trails (as short as .25 mile) offering glimpses of splendid creeks, streams, and wildflowers.  While the avid hiker’s adventures will boast of those sites offering a chance to camp, backpack, canoe, climb or explore.  Five of Kentucky’s Wild Rivers are located along the trail—The Red River, Rockcastle River, Upper Cumberland River, Rock Creek, and the Big South Fork. 

Sheltowee Trace was given its name sake from a familiar figure in Kentucky history—Daniel Boone.  Boone was adopted into the Shawnee tribe as a son of the Great War chief Blackfish.  His given name was Sheltowee meaning Big Turtle. 

The trail is 278 miles long and meanders through the length of the Daniel Boone National Forest.  The lands were occupied by many groups including the Shawnee and Cherokee.  Many of the campsites, old buildings, and historic farmsteads offer reminders and tell stories of the early settlers.  The trace follows historical trails along the way—Wilderness Road and Warrior’s Path are both significant in the state’s history.   Wilderness Road was created by Daniel Boone in 1775 to open America’s first western frontier, while Warrior’s Path was similar in use once it was established. 

More than 200 years ago explorers and settlers found the Cumberland Plateau, on which the trail wanders, to be a fertile hunting ground with an abundant array of game species.  Wild turkey, deer, and bear were common along with the cane breaks and thriving vegetation within the forests.  The eager hiker will find the Sheltowee Trace follows narrow ridge tops and cliffs then dips into deep gorges with crystal clear streams and white-water rivers.  The great variety of topography along the trail provides for a diverse wealth of wildlife, trees, and wildflowers year around.  One might even happen upon an endangered species such as the Virginia big-eared bat, fresh water mussels, running buffalo clover, or white haired goldenrod.   Whether your interest in hiking is wildlife, lush vegetation, wild rivers, or history there is something for everyone.  Just keep hiking etiquette close to your heart while partaking of Mother Nature’s goodness. 

The picture was sent to me by another avid hiker that takes some fantastic photos.  Hopefully Peg will let us see some more of her work on the site.  Thanks again Peg.

Categories: Camping, Hiking