When you think of natural wonders, you may think back to social studies class when you had to memorize several of them and where they were throughout the world. That term is used a little differently these days, and it turns out that Kentucky is home to plenty of its own naturally beautiful destinations. While there are dozens and dozens of places in our state that are worth seeing in person, it’s best to have an idea where to start. If you want to check out some of the best of nature in Kentucky, we highly suggest that you begin with this list of 10, and then add on from there! You’ll quickly find that there is no shortage of natural beauty in the Bluegrass State.

1. Black Mountain

Black Mountain, Kentucky 40843, USA
Flickr/Matt Wasson
Kentucky isn't thought of as a mountainous state, but we do have a mountain range and the tallest peak in that area is Black Mountain. There are hiking trails, overlooks, and other activities to do in the area that make it worthy of a spot on your bucket list. If you've never visited the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, consider planning a getaway. Get started with the planning with our previous article about beautiful Black Mountain.

2. Red River Gorge

Red River Gorge, Kentucky 40387, USA
Flickr/Anthony
Another area of the state that's known for its peaks and overlooks is the Red River Gorge. With miles and miles of hiking trails, natural arches, bridges, waterfalls, and more, this scenic area is practically heaven on earth. You can rent a cozy cabin, camp, stay in a lodge and then spend a few days exploring this natural wonder in Kentucky.

3. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Big South Fork, Kentucky, USA
zrfphoto/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
If you're looking for diverse landscape and plenty of things to see and do, add the Big South Fork Area to your bucket list. This massive secluded area stretches into Tennessee, but even throughout this section of Kentucky you'll find natural arches, waterfalls, wildlife, and some of the best hiking trails in the state.

4. Yahoo Falls

Yahoo Falls, Kentucky 42653, USA
Jonathan D. Goforth/Moment via Getty Images
Within the Big South Fork Area you'll find a trail that leads to the tallest waterfall in Kentucky, Yahoo Falls. Yahoo Arch is also along this trail and both make this hike a must-see for anyone who loves the natural beauty of Kentucky. The waterfall is best viewed after rainfall, but the entire area is simply magical.

5. Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls, Kentucky 42634, USA
Kenneth Keifer / 500Px Plus via Getty Images
Cumberland Falls, the largest waterfall in Kentucky, is a popular destination, so if you have yet to visit this incredible sight, put it toward the top of your list. It's an easy hike to see it and then you can explore the rest of the trails within the park, including the trail to Eagle Falls which will give you another perspective of this magnificent waterfall.

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6. Pine Island Double Falls

Pine Island Double Falls Trailhead, Somerset, KY 42501, USA
Alltrails/Alicia Bullock
Pine Island Double Falls is a lesser known spot in Kentucky but its beauty is undeniable. Located in scenic Laurel County, when this double waterfall is flowing, there isn't a more magical place in our state. If you want a true adventure with a beautiful pay off, this is your spot.

7. Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave, KY 42259, USA
sreenath_k/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Number 7 on the list is possibly the most well-known place in Kentucky and could not be left off of this list. Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the world and is filled with natural beauty, mystery, and secrets. This historic site can be explored through an array of tours and don't forget to spend time above ground in the park, as well.

8. Carter Caves

Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
Facebook/Carter Caves State Resort Park
And speaking of caves, add Carter Caves to your Kentucky bucket list because this park has so much to offer. This natural wonder is located in Eastern Kentucky and while it does offer cave tours, you will also want to experience the hiking trails, swinging bridges, camping opportunities, and exciting activities offered by the park. It's a one-stop-shop for fun in nature in Kentucky.

9. Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge State Resort Park, 2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, USA
ehrlif/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
While there are many natural bridges in Kentucky, this one within Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a massive natural wonder you have to see for yourself. It's unique in that you can hike to the base and the top and you can also take a chair lift to the top if you'd rather save your energy. The views from the bottom looking up and from the top looking out are both jaw-dropping.

10. Kentucky Lake

Kentucky Lake, United States
Flickr/Matt Ridings
Last, but certainly not least is actually a manmade feature that we are still going to call a natural wonder. Kentucky Lake is the largest manmade lake in the state (and actually the largest east of the Mississippi) and is a true escape in the Bluegrass. We may not be near an ocean here in Kentucky, but we do have Kentucky Lake and the open water and colorful sunsets make this destination bucket list - worthy. You will also find a most charming town here on the lake.

The natural wonders of the world are great and all, but we happen to think that the natural wonders in Kentucky are just as worthy of a spot on your bucket list – and they’re much closer to home! How many of these destinations have you seen? What would you include on a list of the next 10 Kentucky natural wonders? Let us know in the comments!

And if you love building your bucket list with places from all over the country, be sure to sign up for our exciting Bucket List Newsletter!

For those who would like to explore hikes in and around any of these areas, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.

If you’re still in the mood for more Bluegrass State adventures, take a look at this video:

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More to Explore

More Adventures In Kentucky

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | December 01, 2023

Where can we go camping in Kentucky?

  • Nolin Lake State Park in Mammoth Cave features RV, tent, and beach spots right on the lake.
  • Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Mammoth Cave is a themed campground with traditional camping sites, an inflatable water park on the lake, and lots of other activities.
  • Renfro Valley KOA Holiday in Mt. Vernon is the best kid-friendly campground in the state.

Read on to learn more about the many places to go camping in Kentucky.

Where can we find waterfall hikes in Kentucky?

  • The Flat Lick Falls Trail just outside of McKee is a short, family-friendly, and easily accessible trail.
  • The Tioga Falls Trail on the property of Fort Knox leads to one of the most spectacular falls in Kentucky.
  • The Bark Camp Trail in Whitley County is a beautiful, remote, and somewhat challenging trail offering spectacular views.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other wonderful waterfall hikes in Kentucky.

Where can we find historic landmarks in Kentucky?

  • The Dr. Ephraim McDowell House in Danville is where the first successful Ovariotomy was performed in the U.S.
  • The Louisville Water Company Pumping Station in Louisville is the oldest ornamental water tower in the world.
  • Burke’s Distillery in Loretta is one of the most famous distilleries in the state, although it now goes by the name of Maker’s Mark.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other fascinating historic landmarks in Kentucky.

Where can we find small towns in Kentucky?

  • Paducah is an art-centered town known for its community events and the popular Paducah Historic Riverfront.
  • Harrodsburg, founded in 1774, is called the “Birthplace of the West” because it is the oldest city in the state and the oldest American settlement west of the Allegheny Mountains.
  • Berea is a y charming mountain town and where you’ll find the 9,000-acre Berea College Forest.

Read on to learn about some of the many other wonderful small towns in Kentucky.

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