How do I access Trace Branch?

Trace Branch is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Trace Branch?

Trace Branch supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Trace Branch?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, camping, picnic area, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Trace Branch?

The best time to paddle at Trace Branch is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Trace Branch?

Water conditions at Trace Branch include calm, sheltered.

Is Trace Branch good for beginners?

Yes, Trace Branch is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

A person in a kayak paddling down a river

Photo by Nellie Adamyan on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsCampingPicnic AreaADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Trace Branch

Yerkes, KY · Boat Ramp · Public

Trace Branch is a public boat ramp on Middle Fork Kentucky River - Buckhorn Lake near Yerkes, Kentucky. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Trace Branch offers lake paddling on Middle Fork Kentucky River - Buckhorn Lake in Kentucky. Located near Yerkes.

Lake paddlers in Kentucky will appreciate Trace Branch, which offers direct access to Middle Fork Kentucky River - Buckhorn Lake and its surrounding waters.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and camping and picnic area and ada accessible.

Trace Branch sits about 5 min from Yerkes, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Trace Branch ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Trace Branch?: Trace Branch is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Trace Branch?: Trace Branch supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Trace Branch?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, camping, picnic area, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Trace Branch?: The best time to paddle at Trace Branch is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Trace Branch?: Water conditions at Trace Branch include calm, sheltered.
Is Trace Branch good for beginners?: Yes, Trace Branch is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 37.2720, -83.3706