Shaw Lake Loop Trail is a 4 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Underwood, Indiana that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
dogs on leash
hiking
horseback riding
nature trips
bird watching
running
forest
lake
views
wild flowers
wildlife
blowdown
muddy
This is a difficult trail to hike because it is often muddy and horses have walked on it while muddy resulting in uneven terrain.
My first official Indiana hike. We knew going into it there was a potential for horse “holes”. Luckily horse traffic has been restricted since April because of COVID. Nevertheless, there were still plenty of horse “holes” and some of their “apples”. Rained yesterday so it was slick and the trail would remain slick even when dry in many spots. If that is not an issue for you then this is a great hike. There is plenty to see including a lake (only at first) and steam. Note: 3 different down trees block path. This along with several steep inclines make this trail seem more rigorous than just moderate. There are several great overlooks which would be ideal in late fall or winter. Distance is closer to 4.5 vs 4 p/ GPS.
Brian Albers recorded Recording - Apr 04, 05:35 PM
This trail was definitely more difficult than I was expecting according to the stats. And was definitely not kid friendly, at least no kids that are young enough that you'll have to carry them at some point.. it's very rough terrain for sure. Take twice as much water as you might on a typical 4 mile trail. Also, if you aren't a fan of ticks.. this one's not for you. Be safe and enjoy God's gift.
We've hiked hundreds of trails throughout the U.S. This is the worst trail we've ever hiked. It was so bad, that we turned around at the halfway mark and came back. Horses have torn up the trail. It's just several inches of muck and it hasn't rained here for 8 days. Trust us. Save yourselves. Don't go on this trail.
could have been a great trail. but needs a lot of care to get back. also would have been nice to have a couple cleared out spots to enjoy the view. Rep. Todd Young needs to help out please
WARNING!! This is an expert trail with many very steep, muddy, uneven hills!! It is not suitable for children at all! Horses have really torn this path up and made it a boggy mess on all but about three of the hills. According to Fitbit and GPS it is a 4.45 mile hike. I only took 33oz of water and rationed it out, I would advise taking more. The trail, though not signposted, and overgrown in places, was reasonably easy to follow. I imagine the views in the fall are breathtaking!
this park is a wreck. trees across the road . tress hanging over the roads . Nothing clearly marked. the fire tower is the main attraction however the trees are as high as the tower is. I used to go there in the mid to late 80's. it was really nice. sorry I won't be coming back.
Really disappointed in how the horses have ruined this hike. The trail used to be runnable, now barely hikeable. Lots of deep hoof prints on climbs. Make sure it has been dry for at least a few days before you do this one.
This trail is a horse trail but people hiking can use this anyway. This trail is not clearly marked and not maintained greatly. Some things we heard on this trail was birds. Some things we saw on this trail was a nice lake and nice views. You should walk this trail because to see a nice lake. Make sure when you walk this trail, you bring 2 or more liters of water, good hiking shoes, and a nature guide.
Hiked the entire trail on 2/09/18. Very nice views of surrounding knob country and farm fields. The lake is beautiful. The tower structure shown in one of the pictures is actually an old airway beacon. If you want to see it take a side hike north to the top of Rock Knob. The trail at the time I hiked was very muddy and it has numerous steep climbs..A pair of walking sticks come in handy, particulary for the descents on slick leaves.
didn't get to. do the whole thing, but the lake was great for pictures. the part of trail I did was ok, will go back in Fall, should be outstanding
Good hike, trail was mildly strenuous and muddy. Could use better markings but overall good time.
Wouldn't call this tail easy. Lots of steep climbs up muddy slopes. You will see a trail branch off to the right shortly past the trailhead. Take this to enter the loop going counterclockwise. Bring water.
Trail was in pretty good shape. Had a good hike with family.
Great trail. Parking is on brownstown Rd in a small gravel lot. Follow the trail behind the gate to the dam and then follow the dam into the woods. Goes along the ridge lines with some pretty steep climbs. Views are awesome. Old firetower is about 2.5 miles in and offers awesome views of the forestry and surrounding areas. Not quite 5.5 miles but a decently hard hike still. Def recommend.
