You’ve Never Experienced Anything Like This Epic Abandoned Railroad Hike In Kentucky
By Jenn Shockley|Published August 05, 2016
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
You will see beautiful scenery, along with a lot of history when you take an abandoned railroad hike in Kentucky. Hiking and history enthusiasts can try their own luck and quest out some train tracks no longer in use, or you can take full advantage of the Rails to Trails program. We currently have 36 miles of converted track on the Dawkins Line Trail, but the project has continued to grow since 1994.
Here are 10 fun reasons to take the Dawkins Line abandoned railroad hike in Kentucky:
The easiest way to start the trail is off State Route 825 in Johnson County. It is located exactly one mile west of Mill Creek Road. We’ve provided a map for your convenience.
Yes, this is very true. That is what makes Rails to Trails such a phenomenal group. They take what were once busy, (but are now abandoned) rails and convert them into functional and well maintained hiking, biking or horseback riding trails. One of their current successes is the Dawkins Line Rail Trail.
This converted railroad track is around 18 miles running through Johnson and Magoffin Counties. It is located at SR 321 and SR 1428, Hagerhill, to SR 7 and Gun Creek Road/SR 867, Royalton. Upon completion this trail will be 36 miles.
This track was owned by R J Corman Equipment in the 1900s, and was utilized by Dawkins Lumber Company. It transported timber through the eastern Appalachian region.
Along the journey you will see several abandoned coal structures. The mines have long been closed but their remains still stand. It gives one an interesting perspective on how people once lived and worked in the area.
The trail crosses more than 24 scenic trestles with breathtaking views of our beautiful Kentucky. You can see trees for miles in the beautiful eastern Kentucky and Appalachian countryside.
Dawkins Line passes right through the renowned Gun Creek Tunnel. You will find yourself shrouded within the 700 foot tunnel until you reach the other side, but don’t worry. It is safe. If you are claustrophobic, you might feel some discomfort for around seven minutes… or the length of time it takes you to run towards the light.
The remaining 18 miles takes you west towards Breathitt County, and coal country. This still gorgeous area once provided a great deal of revenue to our state with coal production. Many men lost their lives in these mines.
There are water fountains and hitching posts for those who are riding equestrians. Corrals are available near Hager Hill and Royalton. Mounting blocks are also on site for the convenience of anyone vertically challenged.
On the second half of this Rail to Trail hike you cross through the Tip Top Tunnel, all 1,556 feet of it. This is another section that anyone who is claustrophobic will likely feel some discomfort in… if you can go through. It is an amazing journey through history if you can make the walk through.
If you are hankering to get out into nature and walk the rails, the Dawkins Line Rail Trail is a beautiful abandoned railroad hike in Kentucky. If you love to hike, but aren’t into the rail trail scene, check out some of these gorgeous nature hikes.
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