Kentucky has an amazing array of scenic views, from rocky ledges to vibrant forests and roaring rivers. Whatever type of atmosphere brings a feeling of tranquility, it can be found somewhere in the Bluegrass State. We also have the benefit of four seasons, giving our environment a different look every few months each year.

Here are 19 of the most jaw-dropping places in Kentucky you’ll want to explore over and over again.

1. Red River Gorge
Tiffany
The Red River Gorge is recognized as a Natural National Landmark and river. This amazing park has gorges, hiking trails, roaring rivers and amazing forestry and rock formations. Did you know that the Red River Gorge is considered the Grand Canyon of Kentucky?
2. Nolin Lake
Ginger Booker
Renowned for its amazing bluish green color, Nolin Lake is one of the most jaw-dropping places in Kentucky. You can see the abundance of Crappie, Bass and Walleye swimming in the water. Without a doubt, Nolin Lake is one of Kentucky's most incredible hidden gems.
3. Cumberland Gap
M. Hogue
The naturally formed Sand Cave in Cumberland Gap offers an unusual, yet amazing view of where ancient Kentuckians might have lived. Cumberland Gap is also home to the 2400 foot pinnacle where one can view Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia simultaneously. It's no mystery why Cumberland Gap is considered one of the country's most beautiful destinations.
4. The Pinnacles of Berea
Coco
Here's you'll discover a beautiful array of colors and contrasts. Forests, rocky formations and rushing rivers make this a great spot to relax. Looking for a great trail that will showcase this spectacular scenery? Read all about it here.
5. The Pikeville Mountains
Topix
Kentucky's mountains are positively lovely. And the Pikeville Mountains are covered in a vivid green forest during the spring and summer, and hues of gold and red in autumn. If you're fascinated by engineering, you'll want to learn about the iconic Pikeville Cut-Through Project.
6. The Newport Aquarium
Tatiana Danger
Do you love learning about sea life? The Newport Aquarium offers visitors a look at endless arrays of ocean life. Its walk through tunnels offer a "surround" view of aquatic life from jelly fish to sharks. Sometimes a mermaid even pops out for a swim.
7. Natural Arch
B. Bryant
The Natural Arch located by Parker's Lake formed in the Rock Castle Conglomerate over the centuries. And best of all, there's an easily-accessible overlook that offers beautiful views of the Natural Arch.
8. Mammoth Cave National Park
F. Maslanka
The crystal stalactites and columns in Mammoth Cave can give visitors the feel of stepping into a fairy land. The lights bounce off the crystals in a glittering array. For a real adventure, you can rent a UTV and go off-roading around Mammoth Cave.
9. The George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge
Livability
One of the best parts about living in Kentucky is that sometimes city views are just as extraordinary as the natural landscape. The George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge offers those on the river front a colorful view along the water.
10. Land Between the Lakes
K. Gines
Land Between the Lakes in Fort Campbell offers a serene escape from day to day hassles. It is the second largest peninsula in the United States. Plus, it's so beautiful, it looks like something from a painting.

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11. Kentucky Lake
Kentucky Lake Tourism
Kentucky Lake offers lush green woodlands and a variety of Kentucky's native species. Visit just once and you'll agree that it's one of Kentucky's most beautiful lakes.
D. Ratliffe
Plus, Kentucky Lake at sunset is completely breathtaking.
12. Iroquois Park
PeekeapooMom
Iroquois Park Lookout in Louisville offers several different amazing views of lush, green woodlands, and the city itself. For related content, be sure to read all about the Iroquois Park Overlook.
13. Gallatin County
Samantha Osbourne
Gallatin County offers an array of colors and a peaceful environment.
14. Fairmont Falls
Melinda Schultz
The tallest waterfall in Louisville, Fairmont Falls measures 40 feet.
15. Dog Slaughter Falls
Ulrich Burkhalter
Despite its name, Dog Slaughter Falls is a beautifully serene place to relax in Corbin. Learn more about the short and sweet Kentucky hike that will take you to this beautiful waterfall.
16. Lake Cumberland
B. Bryant
Lake Cumberland is home to the renowned 76 Falls. This beautiful natural waterfall is 125 feet wide and plummets 68 feet down, onto a jagged, boulder filled river basin. You can even rent a floating cabin for an unforgettable experience on Lake Cumberland.
17. Breaks Interstate Park
Park Emery and Henry Collins
Known as the Grand Canyon of the South, Breaks Interstate Park is a 250 year old, five miles and 1600 feet deep. It was created by the RIver Fork's rushing water all that time ago. This is one of only two Interstate Parks in the country.
18. The Big South Fork National River
Cheree Moore
The Big South Fork National River is an amazing array of contrasts all year round. The vivid green forest borders a jagged gorge and fissures that slice through the tree lines.
19. The Appalachain Mountains
Darlene George
Last but certainly not least on our list of the most jaw-dropping places in Kentucky, The Appalachians are magnificent. These mountains are beautiful any time of year, but autumn is especially vibrant. The scenery is a sea of golds, reds, greens, yellows, oranges, and browns.

There is nothing like relaxing in a place so quiet and peaceful, it brings a feeling of absolute serenity. Mother Nature has provided a bountiful array of beautiful land all across the state. Just taking a drive can be calming, but stopping at one of the above spots, can wash away all the stress of the day. If you’ve been to any of these 19 jaw-dropping places in Kentucky, please share your story, or feel free to add any other amazing views personally experienced.

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More to Explore

jaw-dropping places in Kentucky

Beth C. | April 14, 2021

Does Kentucky have any natural wonders?

There are endless natural wonders to explore in Kentucky, and they can be discovered in nearly every region of the state. Some of the most impressive natural wonders include Yahoo Arch, Big South Fork National River Park, Lost River Cave, Mammoth Onyx Cave, Creelsboro Natural Arch, Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge, and Natural Bridge State Resort Park. Learn more about these 10 incredible natural wonders in Kentucky.

What are the most beautiful places in Kentucky?

As you learned from the article above outlining the most jaw-dropping places in Kentucky, the Bluegrass is home to countless scenic destinations. Of all of them, Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area may just take the cake. Located between Kentucky and Tennessee, this water-filled landscape is like something straight from a fairytale. Learn more about some other seriously beautiful places in Kentucky you'll want to explore.

Where can I go for beautiful Kentucky views?

If stunning, otherworldly scenery impresses you, you'll want to plan a trip to Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. It's here that you can venture below-ground and explore the longest cave system in the entire world. How incredible is that? Plus, the surrounding landscape is equally as beautiful. Learn more about some of Kentucky's most scenic destinations.

 

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Featured Addresses
Red River Gorge, Kentucky 40387, USA
Nolin Lake, Kentucky, USA
Cumberland Gap Tunnel, Kentucky, USA
Newport Aquarium, 1 Levee Wy, Newport, KY 41071, USA
Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA
Louisville, KY 40201, USA
Fort Campbell, KY, USA
Kentucky Lake, United States
Iroquois Park, Louisville, KY, USA
Gallatin County, KY, USA
Fairmount Falls Way, Louisville, KY 40291, USA
Dog Slaughter Falls, Kentucky 40769, USA
Lake Cumberland, Kentucky, USA
Breaks Interstate Park, 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA