Saddle Lake

Natural Areas: Saddle Lake


Saddle Lake

Saddle Lake. Click to enlarge

Saddle Lake is perhaps the least appealing of the Forest Service lakes in Perry County. On the other hand, crowds are minimal, and access is free. A two-mile loop trail follows white blazes around the reservoir. There is relatively little elevation change; the most “challenging” climb involves getting around the massive concrete dam, which (to my uninformed eyes) appears almost comically oversized. The tread varies between dry stream bed, wooded sections, and more open walking, particularly around the dam, which can be unpleasant on a hot, cloudless day. The segments along the far side of the lake follow fingers and are low-lying but relatively dry. The return includes a segment of rather unappealing road walking.

Trail

Trail. Click to enlarge


Trail Map


trail map

Click to enlarge


Directions


Perry County. From the intersection of IN 37 and IN 70, west 1.9 miles on Old SR 37, right at sign, then 1.4 miles to parking area near lake and trailhead.

GPS: N 38 03.558 W 86 39.798


Facilities


Pit toilets, primitive campground


Finder Sketch


Click to enlarge


Nearby Natural Areas (miles)


Tipsaw Lake (11.9)
Two Lakes (13.6)
Buzzard Roost (19.4)