Many people think of bourbon when they hear the term "Buffalo Trace". Most don't know the origins of of the term. Prior to modern man settling the midwest, there was a well-worn buffalo migration trail running from Kentucky to Missouri. Millions of hooves had worn a 12-20 foot wide path. In some places, the heavy bison had worn the trail 12 feet deep into the soil/rock. Before the dams were built near here, the Falls Of The Ohio were a series of shallow rapids. The perfect spot for the bison to cross the Ohio River.
Now that the area is developed, you won't see buffalo here any more. Well ... maybe one.
Note: Access by foot is possible during low water periods, generally August through October. Ground Zero can also be accessed via boat when river conditions allow. Call McAlpine Dam 502-775-5056 and listen to the short recording.
- Foot Access: If the upper dam spillway is open at all, foot access is not possible.
- Boat Access: If the lower gauge is 20 feet or higher, the cache is under water.