Squirrel season is almost over so I headed to Adair WMA to see what I could find before February ends. I’ve been to this area in the past but I did not remember how expansive and scenic it is. The bare trees opened up the views and a fresh dusting of snow really accentuated the landscape.
I didn’t see any squirrels and the howling wind and plummeting temperatures didn’t allow me to set up somewhere and wait for one to appear. Instead, I decided to hike the perimeter of the parcel and explore for future hunts.
I was surprised to find old hand-laid rock foundations of what were shacks or cabins all over the landscape here. Two right on the trail and one on an overgrown hillside. There were also several stacks of creek rock out in the woods and I’m curious to know what they were for. Were they left by farmers clearing a field? Gravestones? Property markers? I’ll probably never know but very interesting to find them.
There are several intersecting creeks that surround and divide this property and they are absolutely stunning. The water was running clear and cold and I found myself wishing it was full of trout. The steep hills and deep valleys are typical for this area of Kentucky and I enjoy that kind of hiking along watersheds. Lots of deer sign and I even found a really nice set of bobcat tracks.
The day got colder as it wore on and I kept moving to compensate. Next time, I’ll push into the middle parcel and see what I can find there. The perimeter hike was informative but I think the middle area that is a deep valley probably holds some great hunting opportunities. I saw deerstands all day and was glad the season is over so I wasn’t disturbing their hunt. I was the only truck in the parking lot on this day though. (I usually am.)