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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Kentucky
Trigg County
Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area

North-South Trail

Hard

4.7

(9540)

12,238

hikers

North-South Trail

09:15

34.7km

370m

Hiking

Embark on the North-South Trail for a demanding hike through the varied terrain of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. As you navigate this difficult route, you will encounter hardwood ridges and follow winding creeks, with sections that hug the inlets of the lake, offering diverse views. The…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Waypoints

A

Start point

Picnic Area

Get Directions

1

1 m

Cedar Pond Picnic Area

Highlight • Lake

This picnic area features a plethora of cedar trees and other native plants. Cedar Pond is located on the Trace along the Kentucky-Tennessee border, south of the Golden Pond Visitor's Center.

Tip by

2

18.1 km

Golden Pond Visitor Center

Highlight • Rest Area

Visitors will find a planetarium, brochures, maps, clean restrooms, soda machines, a gift shop, children’s play area, pavilion, trailheads, recycling center, and more. Regional brochures describe attractions and historic sites in the area.

Tip by

B

34.7 km

End point

Picnic Area

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

29.0 km

2.68 km

1.80 km

1.21 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

29.1 km

2.82 km

1.55 km

1.21 km

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Saturday 11 July

30°C

22°C

95 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall difficulty of this trail?

This specific komoot route for the North-South Trail is rated as difficult. While the Land Between the Lakes North-South Trail generally features rolling hills, this particular section involves significant distance and elevation changes, making it a challenging hike suitable for experienced hikers.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The trail traverses diverse landscapes characteristic of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. You'll encounter hardwood ridges, sections along rivers and creeks, and rolling hills. The path can include varied surfaces, from natural forest floor to areas following lake inlets.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The North-South Trail in Land Between the Lakes is enjoyable in spring and fall when temperatures are milder and foliage is vibrant. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may bring colder weather and potential for ice or snow, though the trail remains open year-round.

Do I need any permits or pay an entrance fee for the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area?

While there isn't a general entrance fee to access the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area itself, some specific facilities or activities within the area may require permits or fees. It's advisable to check the official Land Between the Lakes website for current regulations regarding camping, specific recreation areas, or other activities you might plan.

Where are the main access points and parking for the trail?

Access points and parking vary along the extensive North-South Trail. For this specific komoot route, you would typically find parking near the start and end points. A notable facility along the way is the Golden Pond Visitor Center, which can serve as a good reference point for access and information.

What points of interest will I see along the way?

The route offers natural beauty and some key spots. You'll pass by the Cedar Pond Picnic Area, a pleasant spot for a break. The Golden Pond Visitor Center is also located near the trail, offering facilities and information about the area.

Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the North-South Trail is a significant route within the Land Between the Lakes area. This specific komoot route largely follows the main North/South Trail (92% coverage) and also intersects with sections of the Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail and the LBL-WRANGLERS CAMPGROUND TRAIL.

Is this trail suitable for a multi-day backpacking trip?

The full North-South Trail in Land Between the Lakes is a 58 to 60-mile thru-hike, making it a popular choice for overnight backpacking. This komoot route covers a substantial portion, and with proper planning for water and camping, it can be integrated into a multi-day adventure.

What are the trail markers like?

The main North-South Trail in Land Between the Lakes is marked with white blazes. If you see yellow blazes, these typically indicate spur trails leading to points of interest or shelters, so keep an eye out for the white markers to stay on the main path.

Nearby routes

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2

Fort Henry Branch Trail

02:53h

10.8km

130m

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