These 10 Incredible Places In Kentucky Will Bring Out The Explorer In You

All Kentuckians have a bit of explorer in their blood. It is how we got here to begin with. Our ancestors decided to explore these lands, laying claim, building, and forming communities. Now, when exploring, we tend to do the opposite - by exploring ancient communities, burial mounds and the natural beauties of nature, left untouched.

Here are 10 places that will bring the explorer back out in you:

10. Big South Fork Scenic Railroad

Take this train in Stearns and plunge down 600’ into the Big Fork Gorge. Travel 14 miles through the Blue Heron, which has the largest collection of coal mining in the Bluegrass State.

9. Central Kentucky Wildlife Refuge.

A mere 13 miles away from Danville in Parksville, this 500 acre preserve sits filled with a beautiful array of amazing types of wildlife. Visitors can explore for hours, seeing incredible beings wandering about in their natural habitat.

8. Creelsboro Natural Arch.

This incredible natural formation is located in Jamestown. It is also known as the rock house, and sits near several mounds, which are preserved Indian burial grounds.

7. Reelfoot Lake and Wildlife Preserve.

This Hickman park offers visitors bottomland forests, bald cypress swamps and marshes, all filled to the brim with an exciting variety of wildlife, just ready to explore.

6. Daniel Boone National Park.

Winchester is home to acres and acres of beautiful natural woodlands, structures and waterways. It makes a beautiful place to camp, hike, and just enjoy the scenery Mother Nature provides.

5. Mammoth Cave.

This enormous cave system in Mammoth Cave is one of the natural wonders of the world. It is impossible to visit and not become fascinated with all the unique caves, formations, and stones stretching as far as one can go underground.

4. Onyx Cave.

This is a amazing 45 minute cave tour in Horse Cave, where visitors will see a variety of huge stalactites, stalagmites and more. The formations themselves are completely awe inspiring.

3. Cumberland Gap Natural Historical Park.

Miles and miles of incredible forestry, rivers, lakes and adventures await any who travel to Middlesboro in order to see this natural park. This is one of those places that has so much to see, one cannot get tired of traveling and seeing all it has to offer.

2. Lost River Cave.

This is our states only underground boat tour and is located in Bowling Green. Seasonally there is a gorgeous butterfly garden and annually there are places where treasure hunting is encouraged.

1. Red River Gorge.

The Gorge is renowned for its miles and miles of breathtaking scenery, amazing natural formations, and beautiful rivers and lakes. This is one of the most favored places for both visitors and residents of Kentucky to go for camping, picnics and exploring.

When the day comes that you are compelled to explore, consider some of these amazing spots in Kentucky. There is nothing like the beauty of our natural woodlands, lakes and caves. Every part of the state has some amazing scenery ready to inspire awe from those who open their eyes to it. Break out your inner explorer and check out some of our beautiful countryside. What are your favorite places to explore in the Bluegrass State?