The 14 Best Hiking Trails in Kentucky
With rolling hills and enchanting landscapes, Kentucky is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With its varied terrain and lush natural beauty, the Bluegrass State has plenty of hiking trails for all skill levels. From vast beautiful viewpoints to rushing waterfalls, there is something for everyone. Lace up your walking boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to explore Kentucky’s 14 best hiking trails. This article provides information on distance, elevation gain, and difficulty so you have all the information you need to plan your next adventure.
Red River Gorge Geological Area – Rock Bridge Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Elevation: 311 feet (95 m)
Difficulty: Easy
The Rock Bridge Trail in Red River Gorge is a must for hiking enthusiasts. This scenic trail showcases the region’s natural beauty, including the famous natural Rock Bridge. The easy difficulty allows hikers to enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding forest.
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park – Moonbow Trail
Distance: 13.4 miles (21.5 km)
Elevation: 1,072 Feet (326 m)
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
One of the best Kentucky hiking trails to experience, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park’s Moonbow Trail is great in every way. This longer hiking trail takes you along the Cumberland River to the majestic Cumberland Falls. Don’t miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing “Moonbow” phenomenon on a clear night.
Mammoth Cave National Park – Green River Bluffs Trail
Distance: 4.3 miles (6.9 km)
Elevation: 564 feet (172 m)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
The Green River Bluffs Trail offers scenic hikes along cliffs and stunning views of the Green River. You will see great views along the way, as well as many fascinating geological formations. This Kentucky hiking trail is suitable for hikers of all levels and can even be combined with a cave tour for an unforgettable adventure.
Natural Arch Scenic Area – Buffalo Canyon Trail
Distance: 7.2 miles (10.8 km)
Elevation: 761 feet (232 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Natural Arch Scenic Area is home to the majestic Natural Arch, one of the many points of beauty that this hike will take you through. Buffalo Canyon Trail will take you through varied landscapes of arches, caves, and rock shelters. This moderately difficult trail offers a rewarding experience for hikers.
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area – Twin Arch Loop
Distance: 7.4 miles (4.6 km)
Elevation: 797 feet (243m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Marvel at the towering sandstone arches of the Big South Fork. The Twin Arches Loop Trail is a fantastic hike that offers great views of the arches and the surrounding forest and rock formations. This trail is perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Pine Mountain State Resort Park – Honeymoon Falls Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Elevation: 350 feet (106 m)
Difficulty: Easy
Escape to the serenity of Pine Mountain State Resort Park and discover the hidden beauty of Honeymoon Falls. This easy-to-walk trail takes you to a beautiful 25ft waterfall in the middle of a tranquil forest. A great option for a relaxing hike with family or friends.
Blakes Interstate Park – Prospector’s Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Elevation: 656 feet (200 m)
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
While rocky and jagged at times, it offers spectacular views of the “Grand Canyon of the South”. Walk the Prospector’s Trail for breathtaking views of the Russell Fork River. This moderately difficult trail promises unforgettable views and photo opportunities.
Jefferson Memorial Forest – Siltstone Trail
Distance: 6.6 miles (10.7 km)
Elevation: 918 feet (280 m)
Difficulty: Moderate
This point-to-point trail located near Louisville, the Jefferson Memorial Forest is a natural retreat. The Siltstone Trail is a fairly challenging but rewarding hike through a variety of landscapes including forests, meadows, and rocky outcrops. Hikers can expect panoramic views and a real sense of accomplishment.
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest – Canopy Tree Walk
Distance: 0.9 miles (1.4 km)
Elevation: 75 feet (23 m)
Difficulty: Easy
Experience a unique perspective from the top of the trees on the Canopy Tree Walk in Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. This short, easy trail offers a peaceful walk through the forest, immersing yourself in nature and admiring towering trees, a must see when in Bernheim.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park – Balanced Rock Trail
Distance: 1.6 miles (2.6 km)
Elevation: 584 feet (178 m)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Experience the wonders of Natural Bridges State Resort Park on the Balanced Rock Trail. This short but reasonably steep hike takes you to the base of the famous Balanced Rock, an impressive formation. A great option to enjoy nature.
Carter Caves State Resort Park – Three Bridges Trail
Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Elevation: 492 feet (150 m)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Explore the underground wonders of Carter Caves State Resort Park on the Three Bridges Trail. This trail partially takes you through the park’s unique cave system with three impressive bridges. A great opportunity to explore both above and below ground.
Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area – Canal Loop Trail
Distance: 12 miles (19 km)
Elevation: 850 feet (259 m)
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Nestled between Kentucky Lake and Lake Berkeley, Land Between The Lakes offers a variety of outdoor activities you can enjoy. The Canal Loop Trail offers hiking through the region’s diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and remnants of the historic canal system.
Red Gorge River Geological Area – Auxier Ridge to Courthouse Rock Trail
Distance: 4.4 miles (7.1 km)
Elevation: 908 feet (277 m)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
For solitude and pristine wilderness, head to Red River Gorge. See stunning rock formations, lush forests, and mesmerizing views on this trail. This gentle trail offers hikers stunning natural beauty.
Pleasant Hill Shaker Village – Shawnee Run
Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
Elevation: 131 feet (40 m)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Combine history and natural beauty at Pleasant Hill’s Shaker Village. The Shawnee Run trail traverses woodland paths and open fields to bring you to a magnificent waterfall. Along the way expect to see scenic views and a glimpse into the past, including preserved Shaker buildings and gardens.
FAQs
Does Kentucky have hiking trails?
Kentucky is home to some of the most tranquil natural beauty in the US, including waterfalls, caves, and meadows. The Bluegrass State has hiking trails suited to all needs.
What is the longest hiking trail in Kentucky?
Despite not including it in this list, the steep and rugged Sheltowee Trace trail stretches more than 300 miles through the mountains of Eastern Kentucky.
Does Kentucky have waterfalls?
Kentucky is home to many beautiful waterfalls, including the “Niagra of the South”, Cumberland Falls, which is arguably the most picturesque fall in the state of Kentucky.