Overview. This was the perfect way to close out a great day on the trails around Cave Run Lake. Sunset was beautiful, and all the views along the shoreline leading to that moment were fantastic. This is an easy hike that can be made much shorter with the many connector trails from the various campground loops.

Route Type | Point to Point
Total Distance | 3.74 miles
Elevation Gain | 153 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 38.098656, -83.514942

Parking. Ample parking is available near the trailhead that is adjacent to the boat launch on the far side of the recreation area. Just be sure to park properly to allow plenty of room for trucks and boat trailers during peak season in the summer.

Trail Navigation. The toughest part is finding the trailhead. From there, it’s well traveled and easy to navigate. Just follow the pathway closest to the shoreline and pop out to the shore as you like. Some sections have eroded and can be a bit more difficulty to reach, so pick your spots. Continue around the shore until reaching the beach on the southern peninsula. From here, turnaround to double your distance, walk back on the roads, or if you planned in advance, hop into your shuttle vehicle.

HIKER NOTE - Fee Area. A $10 day use fee is payable at the gate when the campground is open. If primitive camping in the area, take full advantage of your fee by using the bathrooms, showers, dumpsters, and beach:-) Just be sure NOT to park at campsites.

HIKER NOTE - Twin Knobs Beach. The beach is open seasonally over the summertime, but is accessible year round. On my visit, the buoys were still in storage and the beach looked like it would need a good bit of elbow grease (and heavy equipment) to be ready for summer crowds.

HIKER NOTE - Road Walking. I did this as a point-to-point hike and walked back to the trailhead on the road so I would have time to pick-up some barbecue on the way back to camp;-) The road walk clocks in at less than 2 miles.

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