Kentucky is filled with an incredibly diverse landscape, but it tends to be more well known for its rolling hills and horse farms than the towering mountains. But Kentucky does, indeed, have plenty of majestic mountain views and many places to visit throughout the state that will let you experience them. When the mountains are calling your name, head to these seven spots throughout Kentucky that will satisfy your needs. Wondering where the best mountains in KY are? They’re right here!

1. Cave Run Lake
Cave Run Lake, Kentucky, USA
Flickr/Angela Doyle
If you're looking for both mountain and lake views, visit beautiful Cave Run Lake. Located near Morehead, this picturesque lake is perfect for sunset views over the rolling mountains and sparkling lake.
2. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, 419 Jenny Wiley Dr, Prestonsburg, KY 41653, USA
Facebook/Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
You'll find the perfect mountain getaway at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park in Prestonsburg. Stay at the lodge, enjoy a meal at the restaurant and take in the peaceful mountain views.
3. Take a hike at Pine Mountain.
Pine Mountain State Resort Park, 1050 State Park Rd, Pineville, KY 40977, USA
Flickr/James Carnes
Hiking in Pine Mountain State Resort Park is really unrivaled throughout Kentucky. The Hemlock Garden Trail, pictured above, is particularly unique and magical.

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4. Seek out one of many scenic overlooks.
Kingdom Come State Park, 502 Park Rd, Cumberland, KY 40823, USA
Flickr/James Carnes
The overlooks throughout Kentucky are magnificent and there are many to explore. The one within Pine Mountain State Resort Park, shown above, should probably be first on your list. We also love the ones at Kingdom Come State Park.
5. Eagle's Nest in Red River Gorge
Flickr/Ulrich Burkhalter
To reach this spot, you must tackle a very difficult trail (make sure you're prepared and experienced), but the mountain views are incredible. It's also one of the best places to spot bald eagles in Kentucky!
6. Breaks Interstate Park
Breaks Interstate Park, 627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, USA
Facebook/Breaks Interstate Park
Breaks Interstate Park is aptly named because it stretches throughout Kentucky and Virginia. As you explore the area, you'll likely forget which state you are actually in. But it doesn't really matter with views like this.
7. The top of the Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge Road, Natural Bridge Rd, Kentucky, USA
Flickr/Ryan
Kentucky's famed Natural Bridge is one of the best hikes in the state. From the top of the bridge, the views are spectacular and will definitely satisfy your need for a mountain experience.

Kentucky’s mountains should never be ignored and these seven places throughout the state prove that. Where do you head in Kentucky when you need to escape to the mountains? Let us know in the comments!

And if you’re looking for more hiking adventures in KY, you’ll love these awesome fall hikes in Kentucky!

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Best Mountains in KY

Tori Jane | September 29, 2022

What are the best mountains in KY for hiking and camping?  

The answer to this one feels fairly obvious (and AMAZING): the Appalachian Mountains are a nature lover’s dream come true, and we’re lucky enough to be able to claim them as ours. Eastern Kentucky is one of the most amazing places in the United States, thanks to the mountains; some of the best state parks in Kentucky are right there, too. Visit Pine Mountain State Resort Park and enjoy it for both the camping and hiking as well as the history (it was Kentucky’s first state park). Carter Caves State Resort Park is another must-do in the Appalachians, especially for anyone with even a passing interest in spelunking (caving).  

Where can I vacation in the KY mountains?  

Our favorite place to vacation in the KY mountains is, unsurprisingly, in the Appalachians, but there are specific parts of the Appalachians that are definitely top-notch when it comes to vacationing. Among the best places for vacation getaways in Kentucky are the Cumberland Mountains, the Doubles, Little Black Mountain, and more.  

What are some of the most beautiful places in KY?  

Life in Kentucky is a lot more beautiful than you might imagine, especially if you’re a lover of amazing nature! Kentucky is gorgeous, and it’s hard to pick just a couple of the beautiful places in KY to mention. There are many different waterfalls in Kentucky that will take your breath away; one of our favorites is the frighteningly named (but amazingly pretty) Dog Slaughter Falls. Fairmount Falls is another one worth mentioning as well. Another amazingly beautiful place in Kentucky is Kentucky Lake, where the sunsets really are something special, and Mammoth Cave is incredible even if you’re not a huge geology geek. Kentucky is a great state for exploring the Great Outdoors!  

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