Cedar Branch,

KY 342 to Kentucky River (1.5 miles)

Usual Difficulty	III-IV (may vary with level)
Length	1.5 Miles
Avg. Gradient	100 fpm

River Description

First paddled in Spring 2002 by Griffin Sanders, Sean Minks and Greg Woosley.

Very small stream with numerous sliding drops in a tight and steep-walled gorge. Similar in character to other central Kentucky streams, Jouett, Calloway, and White Oak Creeks.

Paddlers should always be aware of the possibility of wood on this creek due to its size. At the time of first descent there were at least three trees to be avoided. Additionally, there is a cattle gate about 300 yards below the bridge at the put-in that paddlers should put-in below and a large wood pile dam approximately 0.5 mile from the put-in that is/was a mandatory portage. It is fairly easily noticed, but caution should be exercised.

There is a possible takeout on the Kentucky River where Shakertown conducts riverboat tours, however the gate is locked at 5:00 pm weekdays and there is the possibility that management would frown upon boater access. Access after hours or on weekends is unknown. Because this stream has only been paddled once at this writing, the access at Shakertown is far from secure. Please exercise discretion and if in doubt, act "touristy".

(Update on Takeout Access: Several boaters were able to obtain a key to the gate through the information area of Shakertown during summer 2003. Subsequently, however, this was not allowed and we have received word through management that access will not be granted in the future. It should be assumed that the only possible takeout option for now is the alternative High Bridge Road takeout listed below.)

A second possible takeout is in Jessamine County on High Bridge Road, but this would entail a long shuttle and a muddy bank scramble. Also, be aware that Kentucky River Lock No. 7 is only a short distance downstream (0.5 mile) from where the creek empties into the river.