Whether you’ve got your sights set on a quick loop or a multi-day backpacking adventure, you’ll find hundreds of miles of scenic hiking trails in Kentucky. Discover the green pastures and rolling hills of Horse Country. Hike past rushing rivers, majestic rock formations and crashing waterfalls in Daniel Boone Country. Stroll along the calm expanses of Cave Run Lake and other beautiful bodies of water. Trek to the heights of the Appalachian Mountains, then explore the subterranean depths of Mammoth Cave National Park and other Kentucky caves. 

 

Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail is Kentucky's longest hiking trail, stretching over 280 miles through the Daniel Boone National Forest. Once complete, the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail will total 120 miles along the crest of scenic Pine Mountain, making up one portion of the Great Eastern Trail that spans nine states. Find more trails, outfitters and trip inspiration below, and start getting excited to explore Kentucky on foot.

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How to Spend a Day in Lexington

Bluegrass, Horses, Bourbon, and Boone Region

 

Start your day at Doodle's, where you'll find the best biscuits and gravy in town. Their gravy is deeply rich and complex in flavor, while providing that ideal comfort. Don’t miss out on their bottomless coffee either and prepare for the day of eating ahead.



For lunch, head to Carson's and pick from their selection of chicken and waffles. The savory gravy with sweet syrup with juicy, crispy chicken & fluffy waffles were a hit.





 

For dessert, make sure to end your day at Crank & Boom. Known for their small batch ice cream, they serve unique flavors like Bourbon & Honey with Buffalo Trace. Order this as a sundae with chocolate and candied pecans, and I promise, it will be one of the best ice cream bites you take.

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Caitlin Sakdalan

Caitlin is a social media influencer, storyteller, and content & community expert. She is the creator behind the hugely popular @befatbehappy Instagram page. 

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