lilley cornett woods appalachian ecological research station

We was so excited to make the drive down to the Southeast portion of the state to see one of the few virgin forests still remaining in the state. After some wrong turns, we finally made it to the visitor center. We we were greeted by an older man who seem to have known everything about the area which in turn mad my family excited about the ensuing hike.Our hopes were soon let down. First off, this is not an easy hike, no matter what the older man tells you when you make the reservation. When speaking to the guide on the phone, he said that the trail was an easy one and that everyone could do it. My wife had a very difficult time and is still recovering from it, as she has arthritis but did not want to make a scene and turn around during the hike. So, yes, first off, we were lied to about the difficulty of the trail. Secondly, to make things worse, our guide refused to stop and give us a break or answer any of our questions about the woods. He kept moving no matter how many times we attempted to stop and take a break, he just kept saying that he had other things to do in the afternoon. It isn't our problem that you scheduled incorrectly, we drove 2 1/2/ hours to visit, the least you can do is take your time and answer our question and not try to kill us. All in all, it is a beautiful place, but if you must go, realize that it is not an easy hike and definitely ask for a different guide other than Roberto (That's his name if I remember correctly).

Lilley Cornett Woods is a rare gem in the state of Kentucky. It is a rather unvisited, off the beaten path piece of biological history. The old growth trees are a wonder to see. Let me give you a few suggestions for visiting. 1. You need to make a reservation with the visitor station if you wish to hike the woods. You must have a guide with you. The guide is free. (But be kind enough to tip the guide.) 2. You can choose a 2 hr or a 4 hr hike. This hike is up hill so make sure you understand the demand. That being said, I am not physical specimen but made the hike fine with resting along the way 3. Do not hike without a walking stick. You might want to take a small bottle of water with you. 4. This is not a touristy hike. This is the real deal. The visitor center is nice and if you don't want to hike, stop and learn about the woods. The station has rest rooms and a nice picnic shelter. 5. You are in the boonies. Have your food with you if it is going to be around lunch. We went on the 10 am hike and had our picnic lunch we enjoyed when we returned to the station.