Thousands of miles of trails and waterways criss-cross Kentucky, offering endless opportunities for long-distance adventures and day trips alike. Along these trails, numerous communities have been designated as Kentucky Trail Towns – places where you can find supplies and guides, lodging, a hearty meal and a friendly hello during your travels.

Columbia

Located in scenic southern Kentucky along the banks of Russell Creek, Columbia gets its beauty and outdoor appeal from Green River Lake, a paradise for fisherman, paddlers and boaters offering 25 miles of scenic waterways to explore. The lake’s Holmes Bend Marina hosts the Annual USA Crappie Tournament each year. Rich in history, local artisans and rolling countryside, the area is a popular place for biking as well.

Campbellsville

Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, Campbellsville is an oasis for outdoor adventure. Explore Green River Lake State Park’s 8,210 acres, plus lakeside campgrounds and Kentucky’s only floating cabins. Green River Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating and water skiing, or explore the local terrain by hiking, mountain biking, even horseback riding. The town is also rich in Civil War history, with attractions offering a look at that past

Jamestown

Jamestown’s claim to fame may be Lake Cumberland – known as the “Houseboat Capital of the World” – and at 101 miles long, it is one of the largest man-made lakes in the nation. But the town also offers easy access to premier trout fishing on the Cumberland River, great flat water canoeing and kayaking from the dam to Winfrey’s Ferry, and an abundance of marinas, lakeside accommodations, boat rentals, extensive trails and more.

Stearns

Stearns, Kentucky is an area rich in both history and outdoor adventure. This combination makes it great Kentucky Trail Town. Located in the heart of McCreary County, adventure travelers will find easy access to both the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and the Stearns District of the Daniel Boone National Forest. These two areas offer an endless supply of outdoor recreational opportunities.

The Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail travels through McCreary County, and Stearns makes a great destination on this long-distance trail before it enters into the state of Tennessee. The historic Stearns Depot serves as its main Trailhead, and is home to a number of other attractions as well.

The Stearns Historic Railway also is headquartered at the depot, and is a unique way to experience the beauty of the Big South Fork. The train also serves as a shuttle for hikers and bikers wishing to explore the Big South Fork.
As the southern-most Trail Town in the region, Stearns is sure to be catering to trail users and adventure seekers for years to come.