Sheltowee Trace NRT: Section 26 North

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Beginning at the KY 1193 trailhead and the north end of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail - Section 26 (Laurel Lake) trail, this part of Kentucky's longest trail is technically harder and physically more demanding than other parts in the area. It's tough, but in a good way. This section is known as "Cane Creek" because of its proximity (passing through) Cane Creek Wildlife Management Area.

Immediately after entering the forest and crossing the paved road, the mad descent begins. At first, it's just a speedy bike run through the forest of Endor but soon enough, rock gardens spring up and if you don't find a clean line, you'll get your clock cleaned!

The trail keeps on going down until a tight and twisty switchback which is punctuated by a surprise and mandatory hike-a-bike, then a short ride, and then a quick portage over Pounder Branch on a wooden footbridge.

You can combine this with the Laurel Lake ride from the dam for a nice long out and back with the technical stuff in the middle bookended by some nice flowy lakeside cruising.