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Best paddle sports hiking trails in Kentucky
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Best paddle sports hiking trails in Kentucky

Whether you love kayaking, canoeing, or SUP, these paddle-sport-friendly trails offer access to pristine lakes and rivers where you can paddle your way through nature.

Here are some great trails to explore in Kentucky.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Freeman Lake Loop

Hardin County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (90) · 7.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 37 min

2

Easy

Harrods Creek Park Loop Trail

Jefferson County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (68) · 4.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 1 min

3

Easy

Honker Lake Loop Trail

Trigg County, Kentucky · star 5.0 (78) · 7.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 33 min

4

Easy

Coppiced Woods Loop Trail

Jefferson County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (78) · 3.1 km · Est. 43 min

5

Easy

Seaton Valley and Louisville Loop Trail

Jefferson County, Kentucky · star 4.0 (64) · 3.0 km · Est. 37 min

6

Medium

Lake Loop Trail from Park Road

Harlan County, Kentucky · star 5.0 (46) · 768 m · Est. 12 min

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Reviews for paddle sports hiking trails in Kentucky

Vito Rutherford avatar

Freeman Lake Loop

RavineBirchwanderer18 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Amb. Rolando Bruen avatar

Harrods Creek Park Loop Trail

RamblerWayfinder84 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Chad Nelson avatar

Honker Lake Loop Trail

TrailBlazerNelson 路 reviewed 4 months ago

star star star star star

like this one a lot. Perfect for being out in nature for a few, uninterrupted hours. Not super strenuous, but a few spots were slightly challenging. My favorite part is the land bridge through the lake. Very cool and makes for nice pictures.

Michael Langworth avatar

Coppiced Woods Loop Trail

OutbackHuntsman25 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Cathleen Maggio avatar

Seaton Valley and Louisville Loop Trail

HillMountainlover47 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Kentucky

What is the climate like for hiking in Kentucky?

Kentucky鈥檚 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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