Overview. Eagle Lake is a beautiful patch of water on the north side of Morehead State University’s campus. This is a nice trail to stretch the legs whenever visiting town and is the first trail town stop for Sheltowee Trace southbounders.

Route Type | Loop
Total Distance | 1.43 miles
Elevation Gain | 135 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 38.192567, -83.434933

Parking. Ample parking is available at the trailhead and down the road on campus. Be sure to avoid parking in restricted areas including the spaces lining the road to the trailhead so you don’t get a parking ticket.

Trail Navigation. The trail is relatively easy to navigate - and easiest when going counterclockwise. A number of trails exist on the west side of the lake that can be confusing. As a rule for this hike, take the trail closest to the lake to complete the loop. Start by walking across the dam and crossing north of the spillway using the stepping stones there. Continue around the lake until reaching your starting point.

HIKER NOTE - Cool Mornings. If you get a chance to be here on a cool morning with a little water vapor hanging in the air, it’s a pretty sweet scene. Add a little breakfast afterwards in town, and you’ve got a great start to the day.

CAUTION - Slick Spillway. Avoid getting too close to the spillway. A set of rocks are available to walk across the lake above the spillway. Hiking poles are nice for balance here. You can also descend down and cross below, adding a good bit of elevation gain in between - but it’s safer for sure.

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