First Creek Trail

This point-to-point hike offers an easy multi-day trip, thanks to its access to three backcountry campsites and First Creek Lake.

Plan Around First Creek Trail

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First Creek Trail Details

This trail starts at the First Creek Trailhead and finishes 6.3 miles later at the Temple Hill Trailhead. It is basically a straight trail with a loop in the middle that circles First Creek Lake. Beginning at the trailhead, hike about 3 miles until you see a turn-off for the Second Creek Campsite. If you continue on First Creek Trail, the turn-off for the First Creek 1 Campsite is just before the lake; if you stay to your right here, you will pass along the right side of the lake and connect back up with the main trail. If you stay left, you'll loop around the lake and the First Creek 2 Campsite Trail will be on your right on the far side. Continue 1.1 miles further to reach the trail's end at the Temple Hill Trailhead. Due to the easy campsite access, this is a great trail for a short overnight hike or beginner backpacking trip. The middle of the trail follows the Nolin River, another highlight. As with most of the park, come in spring for spectacular wildflowers. This trail is also a popular for horseback riding. As always, hikers should yield to horses, and horses must stay on trails at all times.

Difficulty

Moderate

Distance

6.3 miles

Estimated time

2.5 hours

Region

N/A

Nearby Parks Around First Creek Trail

Compare nearby parks around First Creek Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

7.5 mi away

Mammoth Cave

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183.5 mi away

Great Smoky

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236.3 mi away

Gateway Arch

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307.8 mi away

Indiana Dunes

National Park · IN

374.4 mi away

Cuyahoga

National Park · OH

383.8 mi away

Congaree

National Park · SC

Nearby Points of Interest Around First Creek Trail

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond First Creek Trail while the map context is still fresh.

0.6 mi away

Ferry Road Parking Area

The Ferry Road parking area can be found along Houchins Ferry Road, just north of the Nolin River.

1.6 mi away

Houchins Ferry

The westernmost car ferry and boat launch on the Green River.

1.7 mi away

Houchin Ferry Campground

Houchin Ferry is a small first-come, first-served campground.

2.1 mi away

McCoy Hollow Trail

You can access several backcountry trails and campsites on this meandering trail along the bluffs of the Green River.

2.4 mi away

First Creek Trailhead

First Creek parking area can be found along Ollie Ridge Road east of the Lincoln parking area.