Things to Do at Lake Cumberland in Kentucky

Things to Do at Lake Cumberland in Kentucky
Photo Credit canoe image by Pascal Perinelle from Fotolia.com

Situated in south central Kentucky is the Lake Cumberland region. Lake Cumberland is one of the deepest and largest man-made lakes in the country. The 63,000-acre lake has 51 boat ramps, so there is no problem gaining access to the lake. In addition, you can reach the lake via Interstate 75. This region is home to Cumberland Glen, Dudley Hill, Beaver Creek and General Burnside Island State Park. If you are health-minded, Lake Cumberland offers plenty of recreational activities to help sustain a healthy lifestyle.

Golf

Plan to schedule tee time at the Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park Golf Course. You will play on rolling bent grass greens with zoysia fairways. Have a few strategies to aim for the hole, since the elevation changes from moderate to severe. Try to stay away from the two ponds, the rock outcroppings and small caves. However, while you play you can admire the amazing mountainous views as you walk the course. After your outing, relax in the clubhouse. If you want to brush up on your golfing, you can visit the practice range.

Swim

There are plenty of opportunities to swim in the Lake Cumberland area. Guests of the Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park may use the outdoor swimming pool. In addition, the Lake Cumberland State Resort Park offers two pools. However, to use the year-round indoor pool at the Lure Lodge in the park, you must be a guest. If you made other sleeping arrangements, you may use the outdoor public pool, which is open from Memorial Day weekend until the middle of August every day for a small fee.

Hike

Take a hike along part of the 269-mile Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail. This 55-mile section of the trail runs through the Cumberland Ranger District at Section 12 through 17 near Junction U.S. 460. Watch out for horses and mountain bikers along Section 15 through 17. There is no fee to access the trails. Alternatively, try the 17 miles of hiking trails in the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. The terrain is rugged, so do not expect an easy hike. You pass the waterfall, smell the wildflowers and view the sandstone bluffs. For either trail, plan your trip ahead of time, so you return before dark. Let someone know where you are going, just in case of an accident. Make sure to bring plenty of water because there are no fountains along the trail.

Canoe/Jet Ski

Plan a day of jet skiing or canoeing on Lake Cumberland. If you do not have your own equipment, rent a canoe or Jet Ski from Burnside Marina near Somerset or Lee's Ford Marina Resort in Nancy. You experience a gentle ride in the lake.

Wall Climbing

After a cookout, arrange for your family or friends to climb a 20 foot wall. The Sheltowee Trace Outfitters has three diverse climbing routes. This makes it easier for you to climb the walls in numerous ways. There's a small fee to climb. Climb the wall on-site or Sheltowee Trace Outfitters brings the wall to your location. You determine the difficulty of your climb by the route you take.

References

Article reviewed by Robert Dumas Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments