The Sheltowee Trace Trail National Recreation Trail was created in 1976 and stretches from the Leather Wood Trail Head in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in Tennessee to northern Rowan County, Kentucky. The trail is named after Daniel Boone, who was given the name Sheltowee (meaning "Big Turtle") when he was adopted as the son of the great warrior Chief Blackfish of the Shawnee tribe .

The trail is mostly in the Daniel Boone National Forest, but also takes visitors through the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Natural Bridge State Resort Park, two large recreation lakes (Cave Run Lake and Laurel Lake), and many wildlife management areas. All but the southernmost 10 miles (16.09 km) are in Kentucky.

The trail may be multi-use, in certain sections, allowing horses, mountain bikes and off-road vehicles in some designated sections. Using Off road motorcycles, SUVs, 4x4, ATV's and even mountain bikes in certain areas can result in equipment confiscation and/or fines. While the southern terminus was moved in 2013, the trail into Pickett State Park remains open for those that wish to exit on that trail or wish to walk further down the scenic Rock Creek.