When trying to narrow down which natural attractions to visit in Kentucky, you’ll likely find yourself with a very difficult decision. Kentucky is chock-full of natural beauty and it’s so diverse and scattered throughout the state, that it’s hard to know where to start. We’ve narrowed it down to the 8 most incredible places that you absolutely have to visit in Kentucky. These will give you an overall sense of what Kentucky has to offer and will likely leave you anxious to explore even more of the Bluegrass State.
- Natural Bridge
Flickr/Ulrich Burkhalter For one of the most memorable and scenic hikes in Kentucky, visit the Natural Bridge near Red River Gorge. This geological wonder is stunning from the ground or as you carefully walk across the top. And the views from above are incredible. For more information on the Natural Bridge, check out our recent article here.
- Mammoth Cave
Facebook/Mammoth Cave National Park One of Kentucky’s most unique and well-known natural attractions is hidden under the ground of the Bluegrass State. 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 more information on Mammoth Cave, check out our recent article here.
- Grayson Lake State Park
Facebook/SUP Kentucky To experience several natural wonders in one destination, head to Grayson Lake State Park. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in the entire state, as it is surrounded by towering cliffs, thick forest and hidden waterfalls. The picturesque nature of this park makes it a true hidden gem.
For more information on Grayson Lake State Park, check out our recent article here.
- Saunders Springs Nature Preserve
Facebook/Saunders Springs Nature Preserve This peaceful nature preserve, situated on 26 acres of diverse landscape, is filled with natural beauty. You can hike, check out the waterfalls or pack a picnic to enjoy and take in the scenery. For more information on Saunders Springs, check out our recent article here.
- Princess Falls
Facebook/McCreary Tourism Kentucky has many waterfalls to chase, but Princess Falls is particularly special. Once you reach this natural attraction, you can carefully walk behind it, giving you a magical experience like none other in Kentucky. For more information on Princess Falls, check out our recent article here.
- Cumberland Gap
Facebook/Cumberland Gap National Historical Park This area of Kentucky is known for its breathtaking views and extensive history. Cumberland Gap is a natural oasis - a collection of wonders that add to its beauty and appeal. It’s home to a National Historical Park, as well as the historic Hensley Settlement. For more information on the Cumberland Gap, check out our recent article here.
- Cumberland Falls
Flickr/Aaron Vowels This majestic natural wonder near Corbin is a must-see for locals and visitors alike. It’s a relatively easy hike to reach it and this natural attraction will leave you in awe of the Bluegrass State. For more information on Cumberland Falls, check out recent article here.
- The Moonbow at Cumberland Falls
Facebook/Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Also at Cumberland Falls, the infamous Moonbow deserves its own spot on our list, as it is only one of two places in the world where you can see a rainbow, thanks to the moon. It’s only visible the few days surrounding a full moon and even then, it’s not guaranteed. For more information on the Moonbow, check out our recent article here.
How many of these natural attractions in Kentucky have you visited? Did your favorite make our list? Share your thoughts and love for Kentucky with us in the comments!
Flickr/Ulrich Burkhalter
For one of the most memorable and scenic hikes in Kentucky, visit the Natural Bridge near Red River Gorge. This geological wonder is stunning from the ground or as you carefully walk across the top. And the views from above are incredible. For more information on the Natural Bridge, check out our recent article here.
Facebook/Mammoth Cave National Park
One of Kentucky’s most unique and well-known natural attractions is hidden under the ground of the Bluegrass State. 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 more information on Mammoth Cave, check out our recent article here.
Facebook/SUP Kentucky
To experience several natural wonders in one destination, head to Grayson Lake State Park. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in the entire state, as it is surrounded by towering cliffs, thick forest and hidden waterfalls. The picturesque nature of this park makes it a true hidden gem.
For more information on Grayson Lake State Park, check out our recent article here.
Facebook/Saunders Springs Nature Preserve
This peaceful nature preserve, situated on 26 acres of diverse landscape, is filled with natural beauty. You can hike, check out the waterfalls or pack a picnic to enjoy and take in the scenery. For more information on Saunders Springs, check out our recent article here.
Facebook/McCreary Tourism
Kentucky has many waterfalls to chase, but Princess Falls is particularly special. Once you reach this natural attraction, you can carefully walk behind it, giving you a magical experience like none other in Kentucky. For more information on Princess Falls, check out our recent article here.
Facebook/Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
This area of Kentucky is known for its breathtaking views and extensive history. Cumberland Gap is a natural oasis - a collection of wonders that add to its beauty and appeal. It’s home to a National Historical Park, as well as the historic Hensley Settlement. For more information on the Cumberland Gap, check out our recent article here.
Flickr/Aaron Vowels
This majestic natural wonder near Corbin is a must-see for locals and visitors alike. It’s a relatively easy hike to reach it and this natural attraction will leave you in awe of the Bluegrass State. For more information on Cumberland Falls, check out recent article here.
Facebook/Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
Also at Cumberland Falls, the infamous Moonbow deserves its own spot on our list, as it is only one of two places in the world where you can see a rainbow, thanks to the moon. It’s only visible the few days surrounding a full moon and even then, it’s not guaranteed. For more information on the Moonbow, check out our recent article here.
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