The entire 36 miles of the trail, stretching from Hagerhill in Johnson County to Evanston in Breathitt County, is now open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. The first 25 miles up to Tip Top Tunnel features 24 trestles and the 662-foot Gun Creek Tunnel. While the final 11 miles is now complete, Tip Top Tunnel is not open; thus, the Evanston side is only accessible from Breathitt County. Parking is available at Jenny’s Creek, Swamp Branch, Royalton, and Jane Beshear trailheads. The Dawkins Line Rail Trail is the largest rail-to-trail in the state.

SPECIAL USE PERMITS – Anytime anyone or a group wants to do an event on the Dawkins Line Rail Trail, that will be open to the general public, they are required to complete and mail a Special Use Permit Application. 

DAWKINS LINE RAIL TRAIL REGULATIONS – Please respect adjoining private property. Trails are managed as part of the natural environment.  Visitors must be prepared to meet and accept nature on its own terms.  Please stay on designated trail. Trail is open from sunrise to sunset. Do not hike, bike, or horse ride alone. Proper footwear recommended. Help preserve the trail’s natural resources.

The following activities are prohibited:

• MOTORIZED VEHICLES
• Rappelling and rock climbing.
• Hunting or disturbing wildlife.
• Collecting or digging for artifacts.
• Picking flowers or harming plants.
• Carving or damaging rocks & trees.
• Pets allowed on leash only.

User Information

• Be considerate of all user groups.
• Keep trail clean & safe for everyone.
• Pack out what you pack in, including cigarette butts.
• Horseback riders should dismount and lead horses across bridges and trestles.
• Walking is the only acceptable gait for horses.
• Helmets are not required for bicyclists and equestrians, but are strongly recommended.
• All horses brought onto Dawkins Line Rail Trail shall test negative to a USDA approved test for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) within the previous 12 months & a copy of this test shall accompany the animal.
• Call 911 for emergency assistance.