Mapping the Sheltowee

[scottyvr6]

Hi there! I'm new to the forums but not new to backpacking in Kentucky. I am a frequent visitor of the Gorge, having completed pretty much every trail there. However I have grown restless these past couple of months, and I'm taking a week and a few days off work to go out into the wild.

I have a question for experienced ST hikers: What would be a good starting/stopping place for about 1 week of section hiking on the ST? I average about 25-30 miles a day when going ultralight, and about 15-20 with a regular load. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

[Tommy - The Tank]

You could try the NT to Clear Creek or even go to Natural Bridge if you keep a strong pace. I would advise taking plenty of water. There is no good source of water after Holly Fork until you get to Morehead which is about 13 miles. This is also a pretty rough section and I would expect to move a little slower.

[jbd]

I agree with Tommy-The Tank. The hills near Morehead are kind of rough but recent trail work has made the NT to Clear Creek easier to follow. Its been awhile since I've been from Clear Creek to KY 1274 but there may be some spots that are a little less than ideally marked.

[Chilton]

I did a southern section for spring break that may be perfect. I had planned to do from Yammacraw Bridge to Laurel Dam but due to high water only made it to Cumberland Falls. Much of the section runs with the river and is very scenic and much of the southern section is very secluded. I literally didn't pass a single person in two and a half days on the trail until I made it to Cumberland Falls.
You may consider putting in at Big South Fork and head to Laurel Lake or even further north. There are a few AT style shelters that would be nice to stay in and would make for getting in late and out early for you. The southern section has it all... go for it.

[weeanme]

Scotty,
I just finished a five day walk from Natural Bridge to the Northern Terminus. Would you be interested in that trip?