
Shanty Hollow Lake Trail
Discover a tranquil escape at Shanty Hollow Lake Trail, featuring a beautiful waterfall, unique sandstone boulders, and stunning night skies.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the waterfall and boulders

Shanty Hollow Lake Trail
Best Time
Enjoy the waterfall and boulders

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a tranquil escape at Shanty Hollow Lake Trail, featuring a beautiful waterfall, unique sandstone boulders, and stunning night skies.
"The waterfall area at the end is paradise."

Wear Sturdy Footwear
Navigate roots & rocks easily. :athletic_shoe: Essential for this moderate hike!
Watch for Obstacles
Fallen trees and uneven terrain are common. Be prepared to climb over or around.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shanty Hollow Waterfall
End of the main trail
A beautiful and calming waterfall, perfect for a relaxing stop and enjoying nature's beauty.

Sandstone Boulders
Along the trail
Impressive large sandstone formations offer opportunities for climbing and exploration, especially fun for kids.

Starry Night Sky
The lake area
Experience breathtaking views of the stars away from city lights, offering a peaceful and magical ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Accessibility
Wildlife & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Navigate roots & rocks easily. :athletic_shoe: Essential for this moderate hike!
Watch for Obstacles
Fallen trees and uneven terrain are common. Be prepared to climb over or around.
What is a must do in bowling green
Embrace the Climb
Kids love the sandstone boulders! Great for adventurous families. :child:
Be Wildlife Aware
Rattlesnakes and beetles spotted. Keep a safe distance. :snake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Navigate roots & rocks easily. :athletic_shoe: Essential for this moderate hike!
Watch for Obstacles
Fallen trees and uneven terrain are common. Be prepared to climb over or around.
Embrace the Climb
Kids love the sandstone boulders! Great for adventurous families. :child:
Be Wildlife Aware
Rattlesnakes and beetles spotted. Keep a safe distance. :snake:
Pack for Relaxation
The waterfall is a peaceful spot to hang out. Bring a snack! :apple:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shanty Hollow Lake Trail is praised for its beautiful, quiet natural setting, highlighted by a calming waterfall and unique sandstone boulders perfect for climbing. While the trail is moderate and can be challenging due to roots and fallen trees, it offers a rewarding experience for families and nature enthusiasts. Some visitors note the mucky lake water and advise caution regarding wildlife like snakes.
"Shanty Hollow is a great trail for hiking. It is not easy for anyone with mobility issues. There were several trees down across the trail, some bigger than others. There are rocks to navigate past, as well as tree roots, in addition to the up and down of the hills. The area is beautiful and quiet. The waterfall area at the end is paradise. The trail does go past the waterfall, but we didn't go that far."
kachina lopez
"This is a fun local trail. There are lots of large sandstone boulders that can be climbed on, and there's a pretty little waterfall at the end of the trail. Great place yo spend the afternoon with the family. If you have kids who like to climb on stuff, they will really enjoy this area. Also, I saw an oil beatle there today. If you see one, do not touch it. They're also known as bluster beatles for a reason."
A Larue
"Beautiful! Dogs had fun. Mucky lake water but the waterfall was a fun hike back!! Absolutely loved. Stars were beautiful!"
Abi Brooks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shanty Hollow Lake Trail is located near Bowling Green, Kentucky. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common way to access the trailhead. Parking is available near the lake.
The trail is generally accessible, but be aware that some reviews mention fallen trees that can temporarily obscure the path. Using a GPS or map app is recommended.
The trail is marked, but it's a natural path with roots and rocks. Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended for a comfortable and safe experience.
Yes, Bowling Green offers other attractions like Jackson's Orchard and downtown areas. Shanty Hollow is a great addition for nature lovers seeking outdoor adventure.
The trail is primarily designed for hiking. While some may attempt it on a bike, the uneven terrain with roots and rocks makes it challenging and not ideal for cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Shanty Hollow Lake Trail in reviews or social media. It appears to be a free public access area for hiking and enjoying nature.
As a natural trail, Shanty Hollow Lake Trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official operating hours posted, but it's best to visit during safe daylight conditions.
No, advance booking or tickets are not required for Shanty Hollow Lake Trail. It's an open natural area for visitors to explore freely.
While beautiful, the trail is moderate with uneven terrain, roots, and rocks, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. It's great for adventurous families with older children who can navigate the terrain.
One Reddit user mentioned rappelling off the waterfall. However, this is an advanced activity and should only be attempted by experienced individuals with proper safety equipment and knowledge.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail and the large sandstone boulders scattered along the path, offering unique exploration opportunities.
The hike is described as moderate and not super long, making it a good option for a few hours of outdoor activity.
Information regarding restrooms is not readily available in reviews. It's advisable to plan accordingly and use facilities before arriving.
Yes, reviews indicate that dogs are welcome on the trail and seem to enjoy it. Ensure your dog is leashed and stays hydrated.
Expect a beautiful and quiet natural setting with lush greenery, interesting rock formations, and the highlight of a calming waterfall. The lake area also offers stunning night sky views.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall area is a prime spot for photography, offering a picturesque natural scene. The unique sandstone boulders also make for interesting shots.
Absolutely! The lake area is noted for its beautiful starry skies, making it an excellent location for astrophotography or capturing serene night landscapes.
Mid-day can be harsh with direct sunlight. Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon for softer light that enhances the waterfall's beauty and reduces harsh shadows.
While not guaranteed, the natural environment might offer chances to photograph local flora and fauna. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect wildlife.
A wide-angle lens would be great for capturing the landscape and waterfall. For night photography, a tripod and a camera with good low-light performance are essential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the trail is moderately challenging with uneven terrain, roots, and rocks. Ensure children wear sturdy shoes and are supervised closely. While the lake water is mucky, the overall experience of exploring the natural formations and reaching the waterfall is highly enjoyable for active families.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the unique sandstone formations and the opportunity to observe local flora. If you stay into the evening, the starry night sky is an exceptional bonus, providing a magical experience away from city lights. Remember to be aware of your surroundings and wildlife, especially snakes, and carry essentials for a safe solo journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Shanty Hollow Trail
Reviewers consistently highlight the beauty and tranquility of the area, making it a worthwhile escape from urban environments. The presence of large sandstone boulders along the trail adds an element of adventure, particularly for younger visitors who enjoy climbing and exploring. The lake itself provides a serene backdrop, and the area is noted for its stunning night sky views, making it a potential spot for stargazing.
When planning your visit, wearing sturdy footwear is paramount to ensure comfort and safety on the varied surfaces. Be prepared for the natural elements and enjoy the unique geological features that make Shanty Hollow a distinctive hiking destination.
Wildlife and Safety at Shanty Hollow
The lake water itself is described as 'mucky,' so it's best to stick to the designated trails and enjoy the scenery from a safe distance. The waterfall area is a highlight and a great place to spend time, but always be aware of slippery surfaces near water. The trail's natural state means you're immersed in a wilder environment, so preparedness is key.
For those who enjoy observing nature, Shanty Hollow offers opportunities to see various plants and potentially other small creatures. However, the primary safety advice revolves around being aware of venomous snakes and respecting the natural habitat by not disturbing wildlife.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit