Knobstone Trail - Deam Lake to Round Knob

The Deam Lake loop offers a journey through diverse forest types, from oak hickory overstory to areas with old home sites. You'll experience gently rolling hills and several stream crossings, with the path often providing views of Deam Lake itself. While generally wide and gravelly, be ready for some steep grades that add a bit of a workout, especially if the trail is muddy from horse traffic after rain. This moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) hike, typically taking around 2 hours and 47 minutes, provides 442 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit to the Deam Lake loop means preparing for a multi-use trail shared with horse riders and mountain bikers. It's located within the Deam Lake State Recreation Area. While the path is mostly clear, some sections might not be intuitive, so bringing a map is a good idea to stay on track. There are no specific permit requirements mentioned, but always check the recreation area's official site for any updates.

This trail is notable for encircling Deam Lake, providing continuous scenic views of the water. It also serves as a gateway to the much longer Knobstone Trail through various side trails, making it a good starting point for more ambitious hikers. The mix of forest types and old home sites adds a historical and ecological dimension to your hike, distinguishing it from more generic woodland paths in Southern Indiana.