Kentucky is a state that’s best explored by foot — but hiking can be an intimidating undertaking, especially in Kentucky with its wide range of landscapes and wilderness. But even if you’re a little hesitant to head out there, that’s no reason to avoid taking a hike in the Bluegrass State. Kentucky has endless trails that the easy-to-moderate side, perfect for anyone looking to take in Kentucky’s scenic beauty. Here are 10 of the best hiking trails in Kentucky under 3 miles — lace up your sneakers and enjoy!

1. Eagle Falls - Cumberland Falls State Park
Flickr/Ulrich Burkhalter
While this may be one of the more difficult hikes on the list, its natural beauty makes up for it. (How much do we love Cumberland Falls? Let us count the ways!) This 1.9-mile trail takes you to stunning Eagle Falls and it's a great length to take your time and enjoy the surroundings.
2. Natural Bridge and Battleship Rock - Slade
Flickr/Brian Manning
This 2.1-mile loop trail is the most popular route to the Natural Bridge. It's a bit of a challenge, but overall is an ideal hike for all levels and those in search of breathtaking views. (For what it's worth, Natural Bridge is one of our favorite places in the state!)
3. Dog Slaughter Falls - Cumberland Falls State Park
Flickr/Sarah Altendorf
Although we already feature another waterfall trail from this popular state park, Dog Slaughter is worth a visit as well. It is a 2.2-mile, out and back hike, perfect for a family outing.
4. Devou Park - Covington
Facebook/Devou Park Trails
In the heart of this urban Northern Kentucky city, you'll find Devou Park. The park is known for its incredible views of downtown Cincinnati, but it also provides a surprising 2.6-mile loop trail that will make you think you've traveled far from the city. (Fun fact: this park is also a favorite for people living across the river!)
5. Rock Bridge Trail - Pine Ridge
Flickr/Gregspace
Claimed to be one of the most beautiful trails in Red River Gorge, Rock Bridge Trail is a 1.4-mile loop that will lead you past a creek, rich vegetation, stone shelters, rock formations and a waterfall. It's easy enough for all levels but lovely enough for even more experienced hikers.
6. Sky Bridge - Pine Ridge
Flickr/Ulrich Burkhalter
The hike to the sky bridge is a little under a mile, but the landscape is truly remarkable. There are a fair amount of stairs but beyond that it's an easy trail to relax and enjoy.
7. Shanty Hollow Trail - Bowling Green
foxsocks/TripAdvisor
This 1.1-mile out and back trail takes you along Shanty Hollow Lake and into the adjacent forest. The rock formations are stunning and it's a true escape into nature. You're also rewarded with a waterfall near the outward point of the hike.
8. Indian Staircase - Pine Ridge
Flickr/Karen Roussel
If you're feeling adventurous but still want to keep your hike at the 3 mile distance, try the trail to Indian Staircase. It can have slick areas, requires some basic climbing and parts are unmarked but the views are outstanding.
9. Sloan's Crossing Pond - Park City
Flickr/Tom Gill
Within Mammoth Cave National Park, you'll find the Sloan's Crossing Pond Trail. It's short and sweet at .4 mile and the boardwalk around the pond makes it handicap accessible. It's a quiet, secluded spot to get you in touch with Kentucky's natural surroundings.
10. Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest - Clermont
Flickr/Vicky Vinch
Located just 20 minutes south of Louisville, Bernheim offers several trails that are in the under 3 miles category. Some are more challenging with rocky ascents and steep hillsides, while others are paved and leisurely. The forest at Bernheim is a great opportunity to ease into hiking if you're at all intimidated or hesitant.

These trails may all be on the shorter side, but they still provide plenty of invigorating adventure and spectacular Kentucky scenery. Have you hiked them all? Do you have any favorites? What would you add to our list of the best hiking trails in Kentucky? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below! And if you’re ready to move on to more advanced hikes, these are the 10 top hiking trails in Kentucky, as chosen by avid outdoor enthusiasts!

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Best Hiking Trails In Kentucky

Sarah | February 14, 2021

What are some waterfall hikes in Kentucky?

If you think hiking in the Bluegrass state couldn't get any prettier, add a few waterfalls to the mix and be prepared to swoon! Whenever you get the chance to see one waterfall in Kentucky, it’s always a memorable experience. But Kentucky has so many waterfalls, that it can be hard to know where to start! We can help with that. Gas up the car and hit the road for our scenic road trip that takes you to six of the best waterfalls in Kentucky. Some of them can be seen with just a few steps from your car, while others require a bit of hiking -- but we promise, it's worth it to see these spectacular falls in person!

Does Kentucky have any natural wonders?

One of Kentucky's most unique and well-known natural wonders is also one that's literally hiding beneath the ground! Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the world and it is fascinating to explore. You can choose to do a short walking tour or try a real challenge while crawling through the dark and muddy caverns below. For an above-the-ground natural wonder, go to Cumberland Gap. It's absolutely magical and indefinably beautiful.

Where is one of the coolest places to hike in Kentucky?

How does hiking to ancient ruins sound? That's pretty much the pinnacle of cool, in terms of hikes. These ancient ruins hikes in Kentucky are nothing short of extraordinary, and will take you to some of the most incredible abandoned places, historical sites, and notable landmarks.

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Featured Addresses
Eagle Falls, Kentucky 42634, USA
Battleship Rock, Kentucky 40376, USA
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, 7351 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701, USA
Devou Park, 1201 Park Dr, Covington, KY 41011, USA
Red River Gorge, Kentucky 40387, USA
Sky Bridge Rd, Kentucky, USA
Shanty Hollow Lake, Kentucky 42101, USA
3451 Sky Bridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, USA
Sloan's Crossing Pond Trailhead, Smiths Grove, KY 42171, USA
Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest, 2075 Clermont Rd, Clermont, KY 40110, USA