Cloud Splitter & Indian Staircase Adventure

TRAIL OVERVIEW
Location: Daniel Boone National Forest-RRG
Distance: 9-10 miles
Elevation: 1365ft
Route Type: Lolli Pop
Difficulty: Moderately Difficult
Estimated time: 4-5 hours
Trail Conditions: Good, expect some mud with all the rain we have had lately.

ROUTE
Starting from the Suspension Bridge parking area, we’ll begin our route on the Sheltowee Connector Trail. We’ll pass the popular swimming spot known as “Jump Rock.” Sadly, we’ll also pass by the badly damaged Suspension Bridge, which is no longer in use.

We’ll briefly cross Highway 715 before the hike begins climbing in elevation on the Sheltowee Trace. Around the 2-mile mark we should reach Cloud Splitter. There are several smaller rock scrambles along the way before reaching it. To get up Cloud Splitter you’ll need to climb a rope—assuming the rope is still there! We’ll also have the option to climb into Cloud Splitter Cave to see another arch hidden inside.

From there we’ll continue on the Sheltowee toward the Indian Staircase area. Once we reach the top of the ridge, we’ll get great views of Indian Staircase from the opposite side of the canyon. We’ll check out Adena Arch and Indian Arch before descending down to see the Chamber of Council. This section of trail hugs the edge of the cliff and has some exposed areas, so anyone with a fear of heights may find it a little uncomfortable. We’ll then make our way across to the other side of the canyon to check out Frog’s Head before finally reaching Indian Staircase. If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll have the option to climb down Indian Staircase and then back up.

Later we’ll rock scramble our way back to the Sheltowee Trace, which will lead us toward the Bison Way Trailhead. From there, we’ll have about a one-mile road walk along Highway 715 back to our cars.

Highlights include...

• Cloud Splitter
• Cloud Splitter Cave
• Jump Rock
• Indian Staircase
• Indian Arch
• Adena Arch
• Chamber of Council
• Frog's Head
• Gnome Dome

Essential Hiking Gear

• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction
• 2-3 Liters of water, snacks & lunch
• backpack to hold gear
• Weather-appropriate layers (30-50 degrees)
• Trekking poles (optional)

Experience Level: This is a great hike for both new and experienced hikers. If you’re looking to build strength, improve endurance, and gain confidence on longer routes, this hike will be a solid challenge in a supportive group setting. Must be able to hike more than 5 miles.

No Guest: Hikers must have their own membership to RSVP for this event.

No Dogs

Directions from Lexington
From the 1-64/1-75 southern split, drive east on 1-64 16.4 mi, exit 98 Combs Mountain Parkway; drive 32 mi to exit 33, Hwy 15 (Slade); from exit go left, (look for sign posted Park & Ride) then immediate left (west), then another immediate left into Park & Ride parking lot next to GoTime gas station.(look for posted signs that say Park & Ride)
The carpool will leave no later than 8:35am

DISCLAIMER
By committing to this event, you acknowledge you have read the following Disclaimer: Meetup organizers/leaders are not guides, nor are they experts. You are solely responsible for your own safety. By signing up for and attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking is an outdoor activity that can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. By participating in this meetup event, you acknowledge that you're of good physical standing and willing to risk the inherent dangers of the activity. All attendees participate at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for this event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event.