12 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Kentucky Should Take
It truly is never a bad time for a short hike in Kentucky on one of our many scenic trails. There are places to walk or hike all around the state that offer breathtaking views you won’t get anywhere else. Mother Nature has blessed the Bluegrass State with such an abundance of woodland beauty that it would take months to cover it all… but, of course, there are a handful of trails that stand out as some of the best easy hikes in Kentucky. Ready for a dose of outdoor adventure? Here are 12 beautiful short hikes in Kentucky to get you started on your outdoor adventures:
This beautiful hike is only 2.8 miles and takes you close to the Kentucky River. One can relax and enjoy the scenic stroll along this trail in Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, which boasts more than 10 miles of trails to explore. Raven Run is one of the most popular hikes in the Lexington area.
This 1.4 mile-long trail starts out downhill for an easy trot, but the second half around the loop is primarily uphill. This gives hikers a lovely view during the entire trek, but that uphill climb can leave you a bit winded. Bring some water for your adventure through the
Red River Gorge of the Daniel Boone National Forest.
This 1 mile loop trail takes you on an adventure through rugged terrain where you will pass over Shawnee Run Creek. If there have been a lot of rains, you might want to wait for the creek to go down, or else spots may be impossible to pass. During the non rainy season, this is a beautiful escape into Mother Nature to escape cities and towns.
4. River Styx Spring Trail at Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park is full of stunning spots, as there is truly no shortage of majesty here. One thing that makes this 1.9 mile trail special is the fact it is actually wheelchair accessible. That means anyone can take the stroll, or roll around the gorgeous River Styx area and soak up all the nature you want.
We're exploring Daniel Boone National Forest once again with a short hike on another pretty trail. Truly, every place in the Gorge is beautiful, but this 3.3 mile hike is a very popular spot to hike. It is not often you will have the trail all to yourself, but when you do, the serenity is like a dream. The gorgeous woodlands and scenic views are what keep people coming back to this very trail.
Carter Caves State Resort Park is full of majesty, both above and below ground. You'd ever guess it, but caverns cross the subterranean landscape beneath this forest. This 3.5 mile trail is a very well maintained and easy to locate trail. It is not a flat path, as it has some quick elevation changes, though nothing too strenuous. This is one of those trails that you will want to bring a camera due to the beauty and unique natural sites. Trail maps are available at the Welcome Center.
If you haven't visited Natural Bridge State Resort Park, then this trail should top your bucket list. Hood's Branch Trail is a 3.75 mile trail that will take you into the heart of the Natural Bridge via the cliff lines and the Upper Hood Branch stream. You will see an optional .75 mile trail along the upper loop that splits and leads you to large sandstone shelters, before reconnecting with the current trail. There are also two small foot bridges to cross over. It is a very beautiful place to take a hike.
This 3.8 mile hike in Grayson Lake State Park and is well worth hiking, as it is one of the very best easy hikes in Kentucky. The trail seems to cut through the heart of nature, cutting you off from civilization for a short while. It is not often you run into other hikers, though the trail is enjoyed by many. It can be combined with the Hemlock Trail for an extended hike if more distance is preferred.
9. Highland Cemetery Forest Preserve in Fort Mitchell
This 3.6 mile trail is serene and peaceful, much like you’d expect from the name. Despite being near the cemetery, there is nothing creepy about this scenic stroll through the woodlands. The most frightening thing is likely poison ivy if you have an allergy. With just over 4 miles of trails, Highland Cemetery is a lovely place to spend a day.
This beautiful trail in Fort Thomas is only .7 miles, but it is surrounded by a thick, hearty forest. This somewhat rugged trail allows you to sink into Mother Nature without having to go too far. This is a perfect shot hike without a lot of strenuous climbing or uphill, downhill areas.
This scenically beautiful 2.8-mile trail is a favorite in the area. It is a simple loop around the lake, but the plant and wildlife make it well worth the walk. There is not a lot of uphill or downhill on this hike, so it is great for those looking for a flatter style of trail. Doe Run Lake Park has a total of 183 acres to explore, so don't be surprised if you crave extra exploration in this pretty place.
This is a relatively shot .6 mile jaunt through a popular part of the Daniel Boone National Fores Gorge. It is a favored spot to bring the kids for a short, not too strenuous hike with an unforgettable view.
There are both longer and shorter hikes in Kentucky if none of these seem appealing… but these destinations are truly some of the best easy hikes in Kentucky. With so many beautiful spots to choose from, picking the perfect hiking spot can be a challenge. What (and where) are your favorite places to go for a short hike in Mother Nature? Tell us in the comments!
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Address: Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, 3885 Raven Run Wy, Lexington, KY 40515, USA
Address: 3501 Lexington Rd, Harrodsburg, KY 40330, USA
Address: Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA
Address: Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky 40447, USA
Address: Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
Address: Natural Bridge State Resort Park, 2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA
Address: Grayson Lake State Park Rd, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
Address: Highland Cemetery, Fort Mitchell, KY 41017, USA
Address: Fort Thomas, KY 41075, USA
Address: include best place for public parking, 1501 Bullock Pen Rd, Covington, KY 41017, USA
Address: Chimney Top Rock Rd, Kentucky 41360, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Easy Hikes In Kentucky
June 28, 2020
Nikki Rhoades
What are the most beautiful hikes in Kentucky?
As this article hints, Daniel Boone National Forest is a fan favorite destination for hiking. However, it is one of many beautiful places to hike in The Bluegrass State. You might also enjoy Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.
Where can I hike to a cave in Kentucky?
Portions of Kentucky are covered with rock overhangs and caves, and other portions hide caverns and even rivers underground. While you can give your legs a rest and take a boat tour of an underground river, it's also worth hiking through caves in Mammoth Cave National Park.
Which state parks should I visit in Kentucky?
Quite frankly, you should visit every state park in Kentucky if you have a chance! There's so much to see and do in each unique landscape. If you're not sure where to start, consider state parks in Kentucky like Lincoln Homestead State Park, Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park, and Red River Gorge State Park.
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
