Join the Co-op for a day hike at Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area in the Shawnee National Forest. Bell Smith Springs offers a scenic hike around and within a small sandstone canyon and stream.
We'll hike around 8 miles along the three main trails: Hill Branch, Sentry Bluff, and Natural Bridge Trails. And as an added bonus just down the road is a short 0.5mi hike to Burden Falls.
- Distance: up to 8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
We'll carpool from Lowe's (Oak Grove Rd) in Evansville. It's about 2hr each direction.
WHERE/WHEN TO MEET:
ALL TIMES ARE LISTED IN CENTRAL DAYLIGHT (CDT)
- 8:00a - Carpool meets (optional)
- 8:10a - Carpool departs from Evansville
- 10:00a - Arrive at Bell Smith Springs
- 12:00p - Lunch on the trail
- 5:30p - Depart for Evansville
WHAT TO BRING:
- sturdy shoes for hiking
- water (1L minimum, for drinking) and snacks
- Packed lunch (in your day bag)
- Sunscreen and Bug spray
- walking stick (recommended) or hiking poles
- towel (to dry your feet after crossing stream)
- extra socks (recommended)
- water shoes (for crossing creek)
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- AGILITY: There are also some narrow trails along ledges. Good footing will be required in some sections of this trail.
- HEIGHTS: The natural bridge trail offers a shortcut where you scale a rock wall about 30ft in height using a 'ladder' of metal rebar in the stone wall. (See event photos.) If you have a fear of heights, this segment of trail may not be for you.
- POISON IVY: Poison ivy is prevalent along the trails; I recommend wearing long pants or socks.
- STREAM CROSSING: There is at least one stream crossing. It will be ankle or calf-deep. You'll want to remove your hiking shoes when crossing.
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
- Trails are rated as Moderate to Difficult.
- The park has restrooms at the parking lot.
COST:
No cost to use this trail system.
GROUND RULES:
- No children
- Dogs allowed with approval. Must be on a 6ft fixed leash.
MAPS / INFORMATION:
