Mapping the Sheltowee

[rootman]

Just returned yesterday from two dayhikes to complete this section.

On Tuesday, the 3rd, we covered the 6 mile section from the Holiday Inn Express, near the intersection of Route 32 and I-64, up to 977K. Didn’t start until about 2PM. Temps were in the 50s, skies dark and grey, with intermittent rain. The trail off of route 32 was easily found by traversing diagonally about 20 yards west of the chute coming off of the hillside. There is a white diamond marker on the hill side of the concrete barrier. When you are up about 20 feet over the highway, look uphill and you can see the timbers edging the trail plus a trail marker. This area will be getting some extensive maintenance soon by a volunteer crew and should be in much better shape then. As it is now there are numerous trees across the trail, making it somewhat difficult to follow in places. Thanks in advance to the folks who will be upgrading this area -- your efforts will be much appreciated.

Farther along, the trail generally follows forest service roads. It occasionally leaves the roads and dips in and out of the woods. I found myself confused a couple of times when the trail was difficult to follow and had to rely on my GPS to get back on track. The lousy weather, my wet condition, and our late start with little lunch might have muddied my judgement a bit so under better conditions others might have an easier time.

On Wednesday, the 4th, the weather was much better and we hired the local taxi service to take us from the motel to the Cave Run Lake Corps of Engineers HQ. Cost was $15. The trail from the lake to Triplett Creek bridge is a real gem despite being an uphill grind for the first part. It is very well established, with some lovely ponds up on top. We had scouted the bridge the day before by walking in from Rte 60 because we wanted to make sure it wasn’t washed out and the water wasn’t threatening. On the 4th it was in great shape. Upon reaching Rte 60 we settled into the long hike on the asphalt (Bluestone Road, etc). Rte 60 and Rte 32 are extremely busy roads but the traffic in between is light. We needed about 6 1/2 hours to complete this section, including numerous stops for photos, videos, snacks and lunch.

So we are finally done with the Morehead section of the ST up to the northern terminus.
Now we’ll focus on a section around Natural Bridge and when that is done we will have completed everything north of Turkey Foot campground. In the turtle tradition, we are slowly but surely getting the ST done.

[jbd]

Thanks for the trip report. I really like your dedication "in the turtle tradition".

[Traildust]

Thanks Rootman for the update. Yes, May 21st the STA Ridge Runner Trail Crew is working on the Sheltowee Trace from Rt 32 north. We need volunteers. Meet at the Carl Perkins Center, across the road where you can park. We have the tools and safety gear for 30 people so please come out. There is plenty of work to do. Bring a lunch, water and dress for the weather.

Need more info, visit our group page on Facebook - not the Fanpage - and or email director@sheltoweetrace.org.

We want to meet up at 9 and the work should be done by 3 or earlier depending on the number of volunteers.

You do not have to be a member of the STA to participate.