Buckskin Connector Trail

Apr 22

Elevation Profile of Buckskin Connector Trail, Cave Run Lake

Overview. Most connector trails are pretty boring, but this one provides a gorgeous view of Twin Knobs across Cave Run Lake. Paired with sunrise at Zilpo Mountain, it turned out to be a fantastic morning on the trails.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 1.93 miles
Elevation Gain | 138 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Zilpo Road Trailhead | 38.067311, -83.500622
Intersection | 38.067750, -83.501850
Shoreline Viewpoint | 38.074022, -83.500344
Loop C Trailhead | 38.074319, -83.495206

Parking. Plenty of parking is available at the circle lot off Zilpo Road. Try to park facing the outside of the circle to maximize parking for others during peak use periods over the Summer.

Trail Navigation. Locate the trailhead on the northwestern quarter of the circle lot and descend until reaching the intersection with Buckskin Trail. Turn right (north) to follow the trail until you get close to the Shoreline Viewpoint listed above. The underbrush is thinner here. Walk out to the shore to take in an expansive view of the lake with Twin Knobs across the way. Continue if you like all the way to Campground Loop C or turnaround here. Multiflora rose lines segments of the trail closest to the campground. It’s an invasive species, so feel free to cut it back if it’s obstructing the trail. Retrace your steps to return to the parking lot.

HIKER NOTE - Backpacking. This is a nice place to park for backpackers, as it’s likely not as busy as some others in the area with nearly all traffic going to Zilpo Campground.

HIKER NOTE - Trash. Lakes will have plenty of trash around its shores. Bring a trash bag and pack out what you can to help keep the area clean and litter free. A full clean-up of this area would require some heavy lifting - especially to grab the full axel and tires that are partially submerged just off shore.

CAUTION - Poisonous Snakes. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes can be found in the area. Should you encounter one, stop and slowly back away. Always give venomous snakes a wide berth. Know Before You Go => University of Kentucky Venomous Snake Guide

CAUTION - Black Bears. Ursus Americanus - a.k.a. the American black bear is growing in population throughout much of Kentucky. Know Before You Go => US Forest Service Black Bear Safety Tips