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. Click to enlarge
Trail Map
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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)