Kristian Conway

The middle Ocoee River offers Class III and Class IV rapids through the southern Appalachian Mountains. Those with their own vessels can put into the river just below the Ocoee #2 TVA Dam. For those who do not have a vessel, there are numerous river guide companies who offer guided adventures. The middle Ocoee is a 5 mile section that takes roughly 3-4 hours to complete. 

Starting at the trailhead hikers will follow a clearly marked trail for 0.5 miles. The trail gains elevation quickly and can be strenuous. The tower is currently closed due to arson damage and is one of the few remaining in the Daniel Boone National Forest. However, the 35 foot steel structure is still accessible and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. It is highly recommended ...

For information on put-in locations, mileage, gauge readings, and fishing refer to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife's website: http://fw.ky.gov/Fish/Pages/Ki... Make sure to check the gauge levels before putting in to ensure a proper water depth.  If you have two vehicles, it is ideal to park one at the put-in and one at the take-out, allowing paddlers to float downstream only. If n...

Located just outside of Charleston the Kanawha State Forest is a great to experience West Virginia. This hike in particular gives you a taste of the mountains as well as a look into the deep history of coal in the area. This hike allows encounters with wildlife, as well as, blackberries for a good hiking snack.  The trail begins at the swimming pool and group camping area where hikers will find...

The Crooked Creek Nature Preserve features many unique and rare plant species including an oak barrens community, oak-hickory forest, and prairie species such as: Big Bluestem, Little Bluestem and Prairie Dock. In addition to these species are five rare plant species including: Starry False Solomon's Seal, White Rattlesnake Root, Slender Blazing-Star, Earleaf Foxglove and Scarlet Indian Paintbr...

Starting at the Stoney Cove Trailhead, take the trail to the left. This trail was previously marked as trail #1226. However, after the Sheltowee Trace Trail #100 was rerouted, they now run together. Therefore, the trail is very well marked by a white diamond with a turtle, signifying the Sheltowee Trace. This trail follows the shoreline of Cave Run Lake, offering great views, for 6.2 miles befo...

Located about 30 minutes from Huntington, the Overlook Trail gives hikers an overlooking view within Beech Fork State Park. Maps and brochures can be obtained at the park entrance. Admission is free. Upon entering the park, the trailhead is located in the first lot on your right. This trail is only 1.4 miles with approx. 250 ft of gradual elevation gain. The trail crosses a pedestrian bridge ta...

The trailhead parking lot is located just off of KY 715. If coming from the North you will cross the Red River at Osborne Bend and continue up the steep hill until the very top. The parking lot access road is in a hairpin curve at the top of the hill. It is marked very well with signs so it is very easy to find! This trail makes for an excellent rainy day hike due to the fact that it is higher ...

There is no established trail or route to summit Star Dune which is the beauty of the ever changing and serene nature in the Great Sand Dune National Park. Star Dune is the tallest sand dune in North America, at 750' tall and reaching a summit of 8617'. However, High Dune to its north is at a higher elevation, making it the highest point in the dunes. To summit Star Dune, hikers must chart thei...