We already know that Kentucky has incredible hiking trails that rival the best in the world. We have it all here in the Bluegrass State, and there are bound to be natural wonders you have yet to discover – the Kentucky sand cave is one of them. Located in the southeastern region of Kentucky and stretching into Tennessee and Virginia, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is definitely one of the premier hiking destinations in the United States – if not the entire world.

There are so many natural features throughout the park that will take your breath away, and one of them happens to be along a trail that stretches into Kentucky. Sand Cave in Kentucky is tucked away on the Ewing Trail, which begins in Virginia, but once you cross the state line, the hike to this sandy cave in Kentucky is an out-of-this-world experience.

Cumberland Gap is a diverse and stunning area that is made up of land in Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee.
Andrew Roberts/AllTrails
Each state has something to offer and here in Kentucky, we have mountainous views, unrivaled trails, and an out-of-this-world sand cave.
You can access the cave and other features via the Ewing Trail, which begins in Virginia.
Lindsay Jackson/AllTrails
You'll park here and then head toward the Kentucky state line. The sign above is a bit deceiving, as it's located along the trail, but the entire loop is 8-10 miles, depending on which route you follow.
One stop you'll want to make on the trail, likely before you reach the cave, is White Rocks. It's a bit of a climb to reach, but the sweeping views are well worth it.
Jake Thornton/AllTrails
As you continue on past thick forests, mountain views, wildlife, and other natural beauty, you will eventually reach the Sand Cave in Kentucky. You can tell from the photo below and the people standing just outside just how massive this opening is.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park/Facebook

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Once inside the cave, you'll feel as if you've entered another world. Be sure to plan enough time to relax and take in the wonder of this incredible spot.
Alicia Bullock/AllTrails
Although you begin this journey in Virginia, the cave itself is in Kentucky. The trail is open year-round, is dog-friendly when using a leash, and is gorgeous in every season.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park/Facebook
In a state that's mostly known for gently rolling horse farms, many are surprised to learn that natural features like this actually exist. But, in fact, our state should be known for its caves, mountains, and gorges just as much as its bluegrass.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park/Facebook
If you have yet to visit the Cumberland Gap region of Kentucky and its neighboring states, add it to your list immediately.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park/Facebook
And while you're at it, add a hike to this sandy cave as well, as it's one of the most wondrous places in our state!
Joshua Moore / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Sand Cave in Kentucky is a magnificent place that should definitely be on everyone’s hiking bucket list. Did you know about this magnificent cave, hidden off of a trail that spans two states? Have you been there? Tag someone in the comments who will go on this adventure with you!

The Ewing Trailhead is technically located in Virginia, though you’ll cross into Kentucky while hiking the trail. The trailhead is located in Civic Park at SR 724, Ewing, VA 24248. For more information about Cumberland Gap, visit the Cumberland Gap Facebook page.

And if you’d like to learn more about this stunning area of Kentucky, see and read about why this national park will take your breath away.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Sand Cave in Kentucky

Beth C. | January 04, 2021

Does Kentucky have any natural wonders?

Yes! Some of the most impressive Kentucky natural wonders include:

 

The Bluegrass State is positively brimming with natural wonders that belong on everyone's outdoor bucket list. Some of the most breathtaking natural wonders you can visit in Kentucky include Yahoo Arch in Daniel Boone National Forest in McCreary County, Big South Fork National River Park, Mammoth Onyx Cave, the Blue Pool at Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, Creelsboro Natural Arch in Jamestown, Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge State Resort Park, Cumberland Fall's Moonbow, and Mammoth Cave. Mammoth Cave is possibly the most famous of Kentucky's natural wonders, and it's included in the Seven Wonders of the World. You can learn more about the 7 Natural Wonders of Kentucky.

Where can I go in Kentucky on one tank of gas?

A few places you can go in Kentucky on one tank of gas include charming small towns such as:

 

Kentucky is a relatively large state, but you'd be amazed by the sheer number of day trips you can enjoy on one tank of gas or less. If you're in southern Kentucky, you can visit the following destinations without having to fill your tank up more than once: Stearns, Williamsburg, Corbin, Harlan, Hazard, Jackson, Paintsville, Prestonville, and Pikeville. You can learn more about these destinations and all the fun things to look forward to by reading our previous article about amazing places you can go on one tank of gas in Southern Kentucky.

What are the best hidden gems in Kentucky?

Some delightful hidden gems in Kentucky include:

 

Many of Kentucky's natural attractions are known the world over, yet there are plenty that are considered to be off-the-beaten-path. Some of the best hidden gems in Kentucky include Troublesome Creek in Clayhole, Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville, the Cumberland Falls in Williamsburg, the Grave of Harry L. Collins in Louisville, Dinosaur World in Cave City, USS Sachem Ruins in Petersburg, the Monroe Moosnick Medical and the Science Museum in Lexington.

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Sand Cave, Kentucky 42127, USA