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.
New Year’s Day at Muir Valley
This was a “just kickin’ around” kind of hike that included a pair of arches, a nice flowing waterfall, and a couple wet weather spillers that made for another nice Winter day at Muir Valley.
Snow Day at Clear Creek Hollow
Having hiked this trail a number of times, I wanted the highlight reel section to max out a gorgeous snow day! This short out and back provided everything you could ask for - snow covered pines framing the creek, an ice draped railroad tunnel, and a boulder-top view to cap it off.
Liz’s Arch and Sunny Side Arch Out and Back
There are two arches in Muir Valley along the trail system and both are beautiful. Liz’s Arch calls to mind Angel Windows while Sunny Side is a really unique arch with a kind of slot canyon feel along its eastern entryway. Both are worth a stop when visiting the waterfalls here over Winter when climbers (primary trail users) are away.
Dog Slaughter Falls Short Out and Back
This is one of my favorites in the region, and this is the first time I’ve taken the short route to get there. With the family along for Thanksgiving, this was a perfect hike to cap off a wonderful day. The creek has a couple slides and cascades along the way, but the scene at Dog Slaughter Falls is among the best in Kentucky. And, with the tail end of dry season, I enjoyed a 360-degree walk around and beneath the falls.
Cumberland Falls Overlooks Loop
This is a must-visit for anyone hiking Kentucky. Known as the Niagra of the South, Cumberland Falls is a gorgeous, powerful waterfall and has all the overlooks to go with it;-) Here are the four developed viewing platforms on the Whitley County side of the river. More views can be had across the river from Eagle Falls Trail.