KARKAGHNE SECTION

This Karkaghne section is 29 miles long. There is a pretty good gap without water sources between Bee Fork and Grasshopper Hollow, so water planning is important.

Hiking

Camping

Biking

Riding

Trail Conditions

This section is in nice shape considering the abuse it took from the derecho a few years ago. Expect some season growth, but should be mostly tree free. Watch closely for signs around the spur to Brushy Creek lodge to make sure are heading the right direction. The crossing at Bee Fork is flood prone and can be hard to follow, so keep an eye out for signs.

Campgrounds

Sutton Bluff. Primitive camping is allowed in the Mark Twain forest (100′ from trail)

29

Miles of Trail

MODERATE

Difficulty

2700′

N to S ascent

2400′

S to N ascent

Trail Geography

The lower 18 miles of this section were constructed in the 80’s, running from Sutton Bluff to Highway 72. In 2000, a 10-mile extension to Oates was added. This is mainly a side-slope trail, running just below the ridge-tops as it snakes its way from Oates to Highway 72, occasionally dipping into the valleys as it crosses the West Fork of the Black River, Bee Fork and a few hollows along the way. Near the southern end of the trail is a side-trip to Grasshopper Hollow, the largest fen complex in non-glaciated North America.