Here Are 10 Trails In Kentucky That Look Like Something Out Of A Fairy Tale
One of the best parts of going on a hike is briefly escaping reality and feeling like you’ve been transported into a simpler world. Winter is almost over, so allow yourself to take a mental break and hike one of these gorgeous trails in Kentucky that look like something out of a fairy tale.
Kentucky is known for its gorgeous natural sandstone arches, and while the Red River Gorge may boast the most impressive collection of them, Carter Caves State Resort Park in Olive Hill has some pretty magical ones itself. The half-mile Natural Bridge Trail will take you to Carter Caves' Natural Bridge, which you can walk underneath and marvel at. It's also unique in that it's the only natural bridge in Kentucky that supports a paved highway.
Anglin Falls is in Berea's John B. Stephenson Memorial Forest State Nature Preserve. This 75-foot waterfall is especially gorgeous after a good rain.
If you live in Lexington, the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is the perfect place to escape for a quick refuge from the city. The Yellow Trail is quite strenuous, but if you go in the spring, the trail will be bursting with color as the wildflowers bloom.
Like many of the trails in the Red River Gorge, this trail takes you deep into Daniel Boone National Forest, and your surroundings will look otherworldly. While this trail is a quick and easy 0.75 miles, you will see scenery that characterizes what the Gorge is all about: huge boulders with plant life growing through, around, and on top of them, tall trees that tower over you, and trickling streams.
If you're in Corbin to visit Cumberland Falls, be sure you take some time to hike out to Dog Slaughter Falls. Don't let the horrible name fool you, though. This is one of the most magical waterfalls in the state. Hike the 2.2-mile trail to this beautiful scene. The waterfall creates a serene and picturesque swimming hole, which is perfect after a hot summer hike.
Breaks Interstate Park expands over the Kentucky border to Virginia, so if you find yourself in eastern Kentucky near Elkhorn City, you must stop for a hike in the Breaks. Prospector's Trail is a moderately difficult 1.5-mile hike that will show you the stunning lookouts of the "Grand Canyon of the South."
This easy 0.6-mile walk may be one of the most popular spots in the Red River Gorge, and you'll see why immediately. This lookout offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. The hike is especially magical in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming, or in the fall when the leaves are changing. It's also a great place to catch a stunning sunrise or sunset.
Bernheim Forest is located just south of Louisville, and offers a variety of trails for city folks looking to reconnect with nature. This 1.3-mile loop circumnavigates Lake Nevin and has two wooden foot bridges to cross.
The Honker Hill may be a somewhat daunting 5.4 miles, but it is still great for most skill levels. You'll get to look out over a serene lake, and you might even spot some wildlife, as most people often do when they visit the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
If you're visiting Mammoth Cave National Park and want to explore above ground one day, then definitely check out Sloan's Crossing Pond. Casually stroll along this 0.4-mile loop as you look out over the lake and listen to the frogs croak.
Has anyone ever hiked these trails before? If you know of more trails that look like they are straight out of a fairy tale, leave them in the comments. We want to hike them too!
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