Land Between the Lakes Day Trip

Join me on a hiking adventure through the beautiful landscapes of Kentucky's Commonwealth! Our journey will take us to the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, a gem discovered through a meticulous search on AllTrails. Criteria? A maximum of 2 hours' drive and trails rated at least 4 out of 5 stars.

We're embarking on two trails - one intermediate and one beginner-friendly, covering a total distance of 9.7 miles. According to AllTrails, we should complete our exploration in roughly 4 hours.

Schedule

Plan to meet at Lowe's at 9:00 AM (CT). We'll carpool to the NRA for a day of hiking. It is going to be a 2-hour drive but it should be worth it! Hiking begins by 11:30a. Lunch will be eaten on the trail.
We'll start with the Barkley Canal Lower Loop (5.3mi; ~2 hours; Moderate; 4.4/5 on AllTrails) and wrap it up with the Honker Lake Trail (4.4mi; ~2 hours; Easy; 4.5/5 on AllTrails).

ALL TIMES ARE LISTED IN CENTRAL TIME (CT)

• 9:00a - Meet at Lowe's to carpool
• 11:15a - Arrive at Barkley Canal Lower Loop trailhead
• 11:30a - Begin first hike
• 12:00p - Lunch on trail
• 1:30p - Conclude first hike and drive to Honker Lake trailhead
• 2:00p - Begin second hike
• 4:00p - Conclude second hike and return to Evansville
• 6:30p - arrive in Evansville

OPTIONAL: Have dinner on the way or when back on the East Side in Evansville (e.g., Thai or Mexican)

Who Should Join

People who enjoy longer hikes and don't mind driving 2x2 hours to see a National Recreation Area.

What to Bring

• sturdy shoes for hiking
• water (for drinking) and snacks
• Packed lunch (in your day bag)
• Sunscreen and Bug spray
• walking stick or hiking poles (optional)
• clean shoes for the car ride

Other Things to Note

• Trails are rated moderate and easy. Please consult links below for further details.
• There may not be public restrooms. We'll make a pit stop on our way.

Cost

• None

Ground Rules

• No children
• Dogs permitted only upon approval from organizer.
• Dogs are allowed in Land Between the Lakes but must be on a leash at all times. E-collars are not a substitute for a leash.
• Leave no trace, and pack out all your trash.

Maps / Information

• Lowe's Oak Grove (Carpool)
• Barkley Canal Lower Loop on AllTrails
• Barkley Canal Lower Loop Trailhead on Google Maps
• Barkley Canal Trail Map (USDA)
• Honker Lake Trail on AllTrails
• Honker Lake Trailhead on Google Maps
• Honker Lake Trail Map (USDA)