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Note: The North-South Trail is separated into the North section ( hiking & mountain biking) and the South section (hiking).
The North-South Trail is the longest hiking trail in Land Between the Lakes, stretching 65 miles from one end of the recreation area to the other. While a handful of backpackers set out to complete the entire route, that’s only one way to experience it.
Most visitors choose a section that fits their schedule, spending a few hours exploring the forest before returning to their vehicle. With multiple trailheads and access points along The Trace, it’s easy to enjoy part of the trail without committing to the full distance.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging day hike or planning a multi-day backpacking trip, the North-South Trail offers an opportunity to experience some of the most remote scenery in Land Between the Lakes.
The North-South Trail follows the length of Land Between the Lakes, linking forests, ridges, valleys, creeks, and countless miles of natural scenery.
Conditions vary depending on where you begin. Northern sections tend to feature steeper hills and more rugged terrain, while the southern portions generally offer gentler hiking. That variety is part of what makes the trail so appealing. No two sections feel exactly alike.
Because the trail crosses The Trace in several locations, hikers can choose shorter out-and-back adventures or longer point-to-point hikes without tackling all 65 miles at once.
The North-South Trail offers something for nearly every type of hiker. The key is choosing the section that matches the kind of adventure you’re looking for.
You don’t have to hike all 65 miles to appreciate the trail. Many visitors select a shorter section, spend a few hours exploring, then return to the trailhead. Multiple access points make it easy to adjust your hike to the amount of time you have available.
If you’re looking for a bigger challenge, the North-South Trail is one of the premier backpacking routes in western Kentucky. Completing the entire trail takes planning, preparation, and several days, rewarding hikers with an immersive backcountry experience through Land Between the Lakes.
The northern sections provide a more demanding hike with rolling hills, changing terrain, and longer stretches between trailheads. Visitors looking for a physical challenge often begin here.
Even if you’re spending most of your vacation boating, fishing, or sightseeing, hiking a short section of the North-South Trail offers a different perspective of Land Between the Lakes that many visitors never experience.
North-South Trail South Section View
The North-South Trail showcases the incredible variety of landscapes found throughout Land Between the Lakes.
Depending on the section you choose, you’ll hike beneath mature hardwood forests, cross quiet creeks, climb gentle ridges, and pass through secluded areas where wildlife is often more active than visitors. Seasonal wildflowers brighten the trail in spring, dense green forests provide shade through summer, and autumn transforms the hillsides into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold.
Because much of the trail travels through undeveloped backcountry, it’s common to enjoy long stretches of peaceful hiking without seeing many other people.
The North-South Trail requires a little more planning than many other hikes in Land Between the Lakes. Decide which section you’d like to explore before arriving and make sure you know where you’ll begin and end your hike. If you’re planning a point-to-point trip, arrange transportation ahead of time or choose an out-and-back route that returns to your vehicle.
Carry plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and allow extra time if you’re unfamiliar with the trail. Cell phone service can be limited in some areas, so downloading maps before your trip is always a good idea.
Most importantly, don’t feel like you have to complete all 65 miles. Hiking even a small section gives you a chance to experience one of Land Between the Lakes’ signature trails while leaving plenty to discover on your next visit.
The North-South Trail stretches approximately 65 miles through Land Between the Lakes, making it the longest hiking trail in the recreation area.
No. Most visitors hike individual sections using the many trail access points along The Trace. The trail works well for both short day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips.
The trail is rated moderate to strenuous. Northern sections are generally more rugged and hilly, while southern portions tend to be less demanding.
Yes. The North-South Trail is one of the most popular backpacking routes in Land Between the Lakes and can be completed over multiple days with proper planning.
Bring plenty of water, sturdy hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a trail map or GPS, snacks, and any additional gear needed for the length of your planned hike.
