Best rock climbing hiking trails in Kentucky
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Best rock climbing hiking trails in Kentucky

Got a head for heights? These rock-climbing trails combine hiking with hands-on scrambling and scaling, offering a challenge for thrill-seekers.

Here are some great trails to explore in Kentucky.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Rough and Sheltowee Trace Trail

Powell County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (49) · 12.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 12 min

2

Medium

Blue Heron Loop via Cumberland River South Fork

McCreary County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (79) · 10.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 31 min

3

Medium

Indian Fort Mountain via Main Dome and Sacred Shadow Trail

Madison County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (69) · 11.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 7 min

4

Medium

Rock Bridge Loop Trail

Wolfe County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (71) · 2.2 km · Est. 36 min

5

Medium

Cloud Splitter - Sheltowee Trace - Indian Staircase Loop Trail

Menifee County, Kentucky · star 5.0 (101) · 7.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 3 min

6

Easy

Flat Hollow Connector and Bald Rock Fork Road Loop

Lee County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (44) · 4.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 9 min

7

Medium

Muir Valley and Middle Fork Lower Devil Creek Walk

Wolfe County, Kentucky · star 5.0 (69) · 5.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 38 min

8

Medium

Main Motherlode Loop

Lee County, Kentucky · star 5.0 (37) · 1.1 km · Est. 17 min

9

Difficult

Cloud Splitter

Menifee County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (79) · 1.8 km · Est. 34 min

10

Easy

Main Chocolate Walk

Lee County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (42) · 686 m · Est. 10 min

SHOW MORE TRAILS

Reviews for rock climbing hiking trails in Kentucky

Amb. Kayleigh Jenkins avatar

Rough and Sheltowee Trace Trail

CampRover62 · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

Miss Chau Tromp avatar

Blue Heron Loop via Cumberland River South Fork

PlateauTrailblazer88 · reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

Emery Medhurst avatar

Indian Fort Mountain via Main Dome and Sacred Shadow Trail

WoodlandTrailfinder35 · reviewed 5 months ago

star star star star star

Xavier Russel avatar

Rock Bridge Loop Trail

HarborRunner55 · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Raisa Schaefer avatar

Cloud Splitter - Sheltowee Trace - Indian Staircase Loop Trail

MapleWayfarer22 · reviewed 6 months ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Kentucky

What is the climate like for hiking in Kentucky?

Kentucky’s climate offers unique hiking experiences each season. The mild spring weather, with blooming dogwoods, makes for perfect hiking conditions. Summers can be hot and humid, requiring extra hydration, but the lush greenery is captivating.
In autumn, hiking amidst vibrant fall colors is a breathtaking experience, despite cooler temperatures. Winter, though colder, can provide serene, snow-dusted trails for the more adventurous.
Overall, spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions for hiking in Kentucky. More detailed climate data is available at Kentucky Climate Center.

Do I need a permit to hike in Kentucky?

While many Kentucky trails require no permits, certain areas like Red River Gorge necessitate a parking pass. These can be acquired at local ranger stations or online. Always verify specific requirements with the managing agency, such as the Kentucky Department of Parks, to ensure a hassle-free hiking experience. More info at Kentucky Department of Parks.

Is wild camping allowed in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, wild camping is generally permitted in national forests like Daniel Boone, with certain restrictions. Always maintain distance from water sources and trails, and remember the leave-no-trace principles. Local regulations should be verified with Kentucky Department of Parks or Forest Service. More guidelines are at Kentucky Wild Camping.

Are there mountain rescue services in Kentucky?

In case of hiking emergencies in Kentucky, call 911 first. The Kentucky Search and Rescue (KY-SAR) works alongside local authorities for mountain rescues. It's prudent to inform local rangers of your route beforehand, especially in remote areas. Additional information can be found at http://www.wcsart.com/.

Are there dangerous plants in Kentucky?

Hiking in Kentucky offers encounters with diverse flora. Expect towering oak and hickory trees in the Daniel Boone National Forest, vibrant wildflowers in Bernheim Arboretum, and the renowned bluegrass in meadows. However, plants like poison ivy require caution. Embrace Kentucky's flora mindfully. More at https://www.knps.org/.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Kentucky?

Kentucky's trails teem with wildlife, from fluttering butterflies to graceful deer. Insects like ticks and mosquitoes can be bothersome; carrying repellent is recommended. Wildlife encounters enhance the hiking experience, but remember to respect their space for safety.

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