Hike Blue Heron in BSF

About this event

Located in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Stearns, Kentucky is an abandoned coal mining town **Blue Heron**. From 1937-1962 Blue Heron coal mining town where hundreds of people worked in an isolated community on the banks of the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. The underground mines closed in 1962 due to lack of profitability and the town was abandoned. Later in the 1980's the community was recreated as an outdoor museum; it offers a glimpse of what life was like in a company owned coal mining camp. The Blue Heron Loop Trail explores the plateau top and the river gorge surrounding the historic Blue Heron mining community and the Devil's Jump rapids. The Blue Heron Loop is rated in the top five best day hikes in the BSF. The **Blue Heron Loop** combines history, geology, and scenery into one **moderate 7-mile** hike. Another great hike nearby in Daniel Boone National Forest, is **Natural Arch Loop**, **1.5 miles**. We will add this to our itinerary and hike it on the way back. This in an interesting trail with lots of cool rock formations along the way. It is fairly easy but expect some sections with stairs and steep elevation. **TRAIL OVERVIEW** **Location:** Big South Fork Natural River and Recreation **Trail**: Blue Heron Loop **Distance:** 7 miles **Elevation:** 984ft **Route Type:** Loop **Difficulty:** Moderate **Estimated time:** 3-4 hrs **Trail Conditions**: Good **Highlights Include** * Crack in the Rocks * Devils Jump Overlook * Blue Heron Mining Camp & Outdoor Museum * Natural Arch * Rock Formations & Rock Shelters **Essential Hiking Gear** * Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction * 3 Liters of water, snacks & lunch * backpack to hold gear * Weather-appropriate layers (70-90 degrees) * Trekking poles (optional) **Experience Level:** This is a great hike for both new and experienced hikers. We will maintain a comfortable pace and take breaks as needed. **7:00** **AM Carpool** The trailhead is about a…