We can all agree that our state is beautiful, but there are some dangerous spots in Kentucky as well. It is no secret that some of the most deadly things in nature are also gorgeous to look at. There are brilliantly colored and uniquely marked places and creatures that are quite easy to get lost in, or are harmful when touched. Fortunately, we don’t have any vibrant but deadly tree frog habitats, but none the less, we too, have our dangers. Here are nine of the most dangerous places in Kentucky:

1. Red River Gorge, and other popular hiking and rock climbing areas
Red River Gorge, Kentucky 40387, USA
J Stephen Conn/Flickr
There are spots in the Gorge known to be popular among rock climbers. The thrill of hanging by your fingers and toes, with nothing in between you and a huge drop appeals to some. Personally, I cannot fathom hanging on a ledge myself. Still, those who are drawn to this type of danger should also be aware of the dangers it can hold. There are no safety nets, and a fall can be deadly. Nevertheless, Red River Gorge is one of the most spectacular spots in the country, and absolutely worth exploring. Just be careful!
2. Kentucky's rivers
Ohio RIver, Dayton, KY 41074, USA
WKMS/Flickr
We are all familiar with some of the tragic accidents that have taken place on the Ohio over the years. This rolling river bordering Kentucky with several neighboring states can be quite the tyrant when boiling over her banks in flood season. Unexpected currents and debris can make boating, or even fishing a bit hazardous. Several deaths have been attributed to unpredictable Ohio currents, as well as other Kentucky rivers, over the years. The Mississippi, Kentucky, and Big Sandy Rivers can be equally dangerous, but all offer a special kind of serenity during the right season and fishing is grand.
3. Natural Bridge State Park
Ic-8023N, Kentucky, USA
amanderson2/Flickr
An average of around 40 people fall from the natural rock formations in this area annually. People tend to forget there is loose rock around the edge that can give way. Falling from even 10 feet can cause a phenomenal amount of damage due to the rocky surroundings. The scenery is beautiful, but we need to remind ourselves to wear appropriate footwear and think safe, even if we want the perfect camera angle. Please exercise an excess of caution when hiking at Natural Bridge!
4. Mammoth Cave
Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA
Ali/Flickr
One of the most beautiful places in the Bluegrass State -- and country! -- is also one of the most dangerous. Mammoth Cave is one of the Natural Wonders of the U.S., drawing countless tourists and locals to tour the area. Many people have lost their lives in this underground labyrinth over the years, and accidents still happen. With more cave tunnels being discovered all the time, there are still unexplored areas in the cave that can be very dangerous -- and even guided tours are not without risk. Some of the areas have slick surfaces, and falls along some of the steep climbs can be treacherous. Cave ins are not likely, but they are possible as well.

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5. The Lakes of Kentucky
Kentucky Lake, United States
USACE/Flickr
Boating and water sport accidents are always a hazard when relaxing on one of Kentucky’s beautiful lakes. Each year, someone suffers a tragedy due to some unforeseen circumstance. Many times these accidents can be avoided by using safety protocols, proper lighting, life jackets, etc, because Kentucky's lakes truly are some of the best places for outdoor recreation in the state!
6. Cumberland Falls
Cumberland Falls, Kentucky, USA
Arthur T LaBar/Flickr
This is a beautiful spot to check out and get acquainted with nature… but it is also quite dangerous. The rocks around the water are slick, and all it takes is losing your footing if you happen to be in a not so safe area. Though we are all compelled to get a closer look at the Niagara of the South, we have to remember Mother Nature seldom offers safety ropes and nets. Read more about Cumberland Falls in this article.
7. Chain Rock at Pine Mountain
Chained Rock Road, Chained Rock Rd, Pineville, KY 40977, USA
Kentucky Photo File/Flickr
Chained Rock at 1050 State Park Road in Pineville, Kentucky, has been a fan-favorite attraction since the summer of 1933. The huge boulder made the townsfolk nervous from its precarious perch high above. The chain was added to hold said boulder to the cliff, though the potential for disaster is still there. The trail is less than half a mile long, and the view is gorgeous, but don’t stand on the edge. This is another area where accidents can occur and a fall is easily life threatening. Read more about the hike to Chain Rock in this article.
8. Carter Caves
Carter Caves Road, Carter Caves Rd, Kentucky, USA
Kentucky Photo File/Flickr
Mammoth Cave isn’t the only cave system in Kentucky; it's just the most well known. The Carter Cave system has more than 20 unique caverns for visitors to explore, along with hiking trails, canoeing, and horseback riding. None of which come without risk, as anytime you are at the mercy of Mother Nature accidents can happen. Carter Caves sure is beautiful, though!
9. Black Mountain
Black Mountain, Kentucky 40843, USA
Alan Creech/Flickr
As the highest point in the Bluegrass State, it should come as no surprise that Black Mountain is also one of the most treacherous and dangerous. Riding all terrain vehicles and mountain biking are popular activities both on Black Mountain and other lushly forested areas with maneuverable terrain can be hazardous. Mother Nature has roots, trees and lots of plants that don’t always adhere to boundaries. It is wise to ride out with a buddy when doing any type of all terrain activity, as one can never be 100% their adventure will be accident free.

Each one of these seemingly serene areas can actually become treacherous if the right safety precautions aren’t taken. The same can be said of almost any natural, or manmade event or area. In most cases, as long as you respect Mother Nature, utilize wisdom, and watch your P’s and Q’s, all will go well. What do you see as the most dangerous places in Kentucky, and why?

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More to Explore

most dangerous places in Kentucky

Sarah | December 15, 2021

What are some safe and accessible hikes in Kentucky?

Not every hike is as treacherous and dangerous as those listed above. ls. 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 -- and they're also some of the safest and most accessible in the state!

What are some of the most dangerous cities in Kentucky?

No matter what anyone says, Kentucky is a lovely place to live. If your heart belongs to the Bluegrass State, then you know lists like these, while backed by statistics, do not indicate that a city is necessary a bad place to call home. In fact, you could argue that some of the cities on this list are charming and have plenty to offer. Nevertheless, the FBI comes out with statistics every so often, and we like to share the results with our readers. According to recent FBI data, here are the 10 most dangerous cities in Kentucky.

Are there many dangerous natural disasters in Kentucky?

Kentucky is generally a pretty laid-back and mild place to be -- we have milder winters and not too much in the way of extreme natural disasters. However, that being said, Kentucky has been known to experience things like flooding and tornadoes, and even the random freak snowstorm or two. But generally, we consider ourselves lucky to be living in a state that's pretty safe and also just plain pretty!

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