Elk & Bison Prairie loop from Matheny-Cumberland-Ferguson Cemeteries
Elk & Bison Prairie loop from Matheny-Cumberland-Ferguson Cemeteries
4.6
(1768)
16,085
riders
Elk & Bison Prairie loop from Matheny-Cumberland-Ferguson Cemeteries
02:12
27.4km
310m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
125 m
Elk & Bison Prairie
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
27.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
20.2 km
3.93 km
3.29 km
Surfaces
13.6 km
11.6 km
2.17 km
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Elevation
Highest point (190 m)
Lowest point (110 m)
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 23 June
26°C
17°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a touring cycling route that explores the wider Land Between the Lakes area, the Elk & Bison Prairie loop from Matheny-Cumberland-Ferguson Cemeteries offers a moderate 17.0-mile (27.4 km) ride with 1013 feet (309 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 2 hours and 12 minutes. This route is best for cyclists who want to experience the diverse landscapes and historical sites of the National Recreation Area, understanding that the Elk & Bison Prairie itself is a scenic drive, not a cycling path.
What to expect on Elk & Bison Prairie loop from Matheny-Cumberland-Ferguson Cemeteries
This touring cycling route takes you through the varied terrain of the Land Between the Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area. You can expect to cycle through woodlands and open spaces, with potential scenic views of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley as you navigate the area. The route, starting from the Matheny-Cumberland-Ferguson Cemeteries, offers a moderate challenge with its elevation changes, making it suitable for cyclists comfortable with some hills. While you won't be cycling directly through the Elk & Bison Prairie, the surrounding LBL area provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and enjoying natural features.
Planning your visit
The starting point for this route is implied to be near the Matheny-Cumberland-Ferguson Cemeteries. It's crucial to remember that the Elk & Bison Prairie itself is a 3.5-mile paved loop where bicycles are explicitly prohibited for safety reasons due to free-roaming elk and bison; it's designed as a self-guided scenic drive for enclosed vehicles. However, the broader Land Between the Lakes area offers over 144 miles of biking trails and 444 miles of scenic roads for cycling. Always check local conditions and signage for any specific restrictions or seasonal closures within the LBL National Recreation Area.
Trail details
- Distance: 17.0 miles (27.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 1013 feet (309 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 12 minutes
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