2024 Carter Caves Half Marathon
The Carter Caves Half Marathon is Kentucky’s prettiest half marathon. Prior to the pandemic, this race was put on by EJ Adventures and has since been resurrected after a couple years off by John’s Run/Walk Shop out of Lexington, Kentucky. The race tours some of the iconic natural bridges and arches and the forest here is truly beautiful.
2021 Carter Caves Half Marathon
Let me introduce you to Kentucky’s Prettiest Half Marathon. Seven natural bridges/arches, a number of wet weather waterfalls, a lakeside vista, a clifftop vista, a pair of footbridges, loads of wildflowers, and plenty of gorgeous hardwood forest in between. There was so much to see - and photograph - that my phone died!
Shangra La Arch Out and Back
This is a great hike to pair with Smoky Bridge or to add to the Three Bridges Trail. Though this arch is much smaller than the natural bridges in the park, its intricate rock structure make it more than worthy of a visit - and it has some all natural air conditioning for those hot days.
Smoky Bridge Out and Back
This short hike will take you to the massive Smoky Bridge located below Caveland Lodge, but most easily accessed from this 3-season trailhead. There is an arch somewhat hidden above the bridge, a mini-cave that kids love, and a small (spring) waterfall just outside the bridge.
Horn Hollow Falls
This beautiful cascading waterfall is just off the main road at Carter Caves State Resort Park and should be on your list each time you visit. The stream ducks underground before re-emerging here - providing an amazing little scene.
Carter Caves Natural Bridge
This is probably the most visited trail at Carter Caves State Resort Park with the trail just to the side of the Visitors Center. It is also the only natural bridge in Kentucky with an active roadway in use above it. Put simply, it’s huge and a must visit.
Shangra La Arch and Falls, Smoky Bridge, Arch, and Falls
This is fast favorite with an arch and waterfall on one side and a bridge, arch, and waterfall on the other! Enjoy this in Winter with a little extra road walking, or visit Spring through Fall as a pair of short out and backs.
Box Canyon Loop at Carter Caves SRP
This loop takes you up and around a section of the creek gorge that sits above Cascade Cave. While the cave below is a showstopper, this hike is a fantastic short walk featuring Cascade Cave Natural Bridge, some amazing and colorful rock formations, and a pair of narrow squeezes that kids will enjoy.