20200222 – Highlands Nature Sanctuary – Maud’s Cedar Narrows

Date: 02/22/2020 – Distance: 1.9 mi – Elapsed Time: 1.5 hr – Ascent: 315 ft – Descent: 249 ft – Difficulty: Easy

I wanted to see more of the Rocky Fork Gorge, and this trail was one of the only ones in Highlands Nature Sanctuary I could find that didn’t have a sign that said “members only.” Apparently this park system has winter hours and is closed to the public during winter if you don’t pay membership fees. It’s unfortunate because I really wanted to see the main part of the gorge where there are several caves and historically was an old amusement park. Supposedly that part of the gorge is amazing. I’ll have to come back in the summer I guess. Someone on the trail told me that they recently changed that policy, however the signs were still up and their main parking area was gated shut. I recommend double checking before going here.

However, there were other parts of the gorge which the Arc of Appalachia didn’t “own”, and a couple which appeared open to the public without signs. Miller Sanctuary State Nature Preserve is one. This part is just below the dam at Rocky Fork Lake. Parking is on Skeen Road and is small, but there’s enough room for about 10 cars. The trail is short but it does have some minor views of the gorge.

Waypoints:

• Parking – N39° 10.814′ W83° 26.135′

Links:

• More Photos
• Highlands Nature Sanctuary