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Pennyrile Nature Trail

Enjoy scenic overlooks, abundant wildlife, and views from the bluffs of the Tradewater River as you meander along this 13.5 mile trail that stretches from Dawson Springs to Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park. Hike the whole trail or access portions of it via parking areas on two state roads.

The northern portion of the Trial is handicapped accessible and is about 0.4 miles in length. This hiking Trail is managed as part of the natural environment. The Trail was designed for foot traffic only to minimize soil erosion.

Most of the Trail is in a working forest that is managed for multiple uses such as wildlife, clean water and air, timber production, recreation, and aesthetics. A long term outlook for a healthy envrionment is a primary goal. Please help to preserve and protect the forest and the Trail. Please report severe soil erosion and down or missing trail markers to the Kentucky Divison of forest at 270-824-7527. Visitors must be prepared to meet and accept nature on its own terms. The Trail is considered to be moderate in difficulty due to the slopes and time needed to walk it. Detailed maps are available at the Pennyrile Forest State Park, Dawson Springs City Hall, or the Kentucky Division of Forestry in Madisonville.

For Your Safety:

  • Be aware of hunting seasons and special alerts.
  • Stay on designated trails.
  • Do not hike alone.
  • Be observant of your surroundings.
  • Wear proper clothes and footwear.
  • Know your capabilities and carry water.
  • Keep an eye on the time and the weather.
  • Practice common sense and respect when in Nature's realm.
  • Be careful of your footing on slippery or wet rocks and gravel.
  • The Trail will be closed during quota hunts.
  • Build only safe campfires or use a campstove and observe fire safety and fire regulations.

Help Preserve the Forest's Natural Resources

The following activities are prohibited:

  • Collecting or digging for artifacts
  • Hunting out of season or disturbing wildlife
  • Motorized vehicles, mountain bikes, or horse riding on the Trail
  • Carving or damaging rock formations or trees
  • Picking flowers or harming plants
  • Building open fires or littering

In addition, special rules apply to the south portion of the trail which is in the Pennyrile State Park. These include no camping, hunting, or campfires. Call the Pennyrile State Forest Lodge at 270-797-3421.

For further info visit Friends of Pennyrile Forest web http://www.friendsofpennyrile.com


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