August 19-20, 2023

By Stephen D. Bowling

The heat and humidity continue to be a factor on our hikes. It’s Kentucky in August- what do we expect. August did not disappoint Team Yahoo as temperatures soared into the 80s and humidity along the river was at 437% (as usual). Hike Eight logged in at about 35 miles with 21.33 on Saturday and 13.63 on Sunday. The August hike proved to be a tough hike with the terrain becoming more challenging as hikers entered the Big South Fork after crossing Big Creek.

Hike Eight started at the intersection of Highway 700 and followed or paralleled 700 for several miles before crossing at Catron Road. Down the hill to Barren Fork, the trail followed several old railroad beds and was a nice walk. Making a turn onto Railroad Fork, the Sheltowee climbs out of the valley and up to the Flat Rock Church near Highway 27.

At Flat Rock, the hikers were greeted with some very generous and kind Trail Maghic by a couple from Greensburg who hiked the trail in 2021. After a brief stop and some nice refreshments, Challengers continued across the CSX track and down the North Fork of Big Creek to the Cumberland River. Down the River, past Yahoo Falls, through the adventurous bridge (former bridge) crossing, past Jones Branch to Alum Ford where Yahoo tented (or swung) for the night.

Up and out early on Sunday, the trail continued past the Cotton Patch Shelter, by Princess Falls, beyond Julia Lynn Falls, and on to Yamacraw. After a short hike, they crossed Rock Creek, walked up Grassy Branch, and over the hill to the Sheltowee/Kentucky Trail. From there it was a short walk to the railroad trestle at Blue Heron. Hiker’s cars awaited after a trip over the bridge and down the hill.

Here are a few images from that hike:

Hike 8 is completed for most, and Team Turtle will finish soon. We will jump ahead in September to the Divide Road to Bandy Creek section. Remember- this is the year of flip-flop hiking. We can look forward to more beautiful views as we join the John Muir Trail for much of the September hike. Make sure to climb up Maude’s Crack and enjoy the view. Charit Creek Lodge is nice but the climb out is not. A word to the wise- be prepared.

Enjoy the rest of August and I look forward to seeing you out there on the trail in September.

© 2023 Stephen D. Bowling