A black bear, white-haired goldenrod, pistolgrip, and shagbark hickory are among some of the vegetation and wildlife one might see along Kentucky’s 500 miles of hiking trails.  Located on the Northern Cumberland Plateau, the Red River Gorge is home of around 20 species of trees, over 100 species of birds, and a virtually unlimited number of wildflowers.  Some species of wildlife include those that are environmentally sensitive—such as the Rafinesque’s big eared bat whose roosts are located in crevices along rocky cliffs and in caves.  Although the Gorge’s trails are easily located through the hard work and dedication of our rangers, the vastness of the forest is still wilderness and must be treated so by its visitors.   

Recreational hiking is a past time many have found to be invigorating and relaxing,

however one must know it is imperative to hike with out leaving a trace.  Preservation of nature’s beauty is of utmost importance—otherwise the Red River Gorge, Sheltowee Trace, and other portions of Kentucky’s wilderness will be but a mere memory.  It is for this reason I write this article on proper trail etiquette and hiking without a trace.  Many of the trails located in Kentucky are multiple use trails, meaning hikers, backpackers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers may all share the trails. 

On occasion during a hike, other hikers are quiet noisy—this to me creates a major discord in Mother Nature’s song.  While species of wildlife such as squirrel, deer, or birds are common they will steer clear of any unnatural noise near trails, which is why keeping noise levels down is a courteous gesture not only for other hikers but for the perseveration of wildlife itself.  Additionally, on busy hiking days (cooler, sunny weather) being considerate and respectful of others should be an unspoken rule.  It is only natural to behave in such a manner while enjoying nature’s goodness.   The following bullets are suggested “rules” to abide by while hiking Kentucky’s trails.

• If your pet insists on joining the hiking party, keep him/her under control at all times.
• Step off the trail to allow groups or horse back riders pass.
• Daniel Boone marked or “blazed” through the wilderness, history does not need to be recreated.  Park Rangers have spent hours ensuring trails are safe and enjoyable for all. 
• Please leave wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and mosses in their natural state.  Many species are sensitive to even the slightest disturbance. 
• The trail may become wet/muddy, never short cut trail switchbacks.  It does not take long for other hikers to pick up on a new beaten path which widens the trail potentially killing wildflowers or grasses. 
• ALWAYS carry out any trash or cigarette butts. 
• On occasion trails will cross private property, always obtain permission before leaving the trail. 
• Enjoy! 

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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.

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