When it comes to breathtaking, but easy trails in Kentucky, the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington should be on your bucket list. This gorgeous area provides a true escape from the busy life of our second largest city. It has 734 acres of natural beauty preserved in a nature sanctuary which includes the Kentucky River Palisades and some early state history. The well maintained, short trails provide hikers with a complete tour of the sanctuary.

Here are 10 reasons Raven Run offers the best easy hike in Kentucky:

10. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Kentucky is wonderfully preserved.
Raven Run
This sanctuary hosts miles of beautiful Kentucky land. Its history, beauty and occupants are forever preserved.
9. They offer a convenient trail map.
Raven Run
This is an up-to-date map, created for the convenience of hiking enthusiasts. You will note each trail is color coordinated and named accordingly. This simplifies the process and makes finding the right trail simple.
8. There are over 600 varieties of plants in the preserve.
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Lauren Gawthrop wtvq
Each area has an abundance of native plants, flowers, bushes and trees. The fern variety is lush and native wildflowers provide a pop of color among the varied shades of green.
7. The abundance of plant life attracts insects, which attract birds.
Edgar P. Zhagüi Merchán
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There are over 200 species of birds that migrate to and from Raven Run annually. The avian visitors vary by season, which means each season has its own special kind of beauty. This all means Raven Run is one of the best wildlife hikes in Kentucky.
6. There are small waterfalls.
Edgar P. Zhagüi Merchán
Edgar P. Zhagüi Merchán

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There is a refreshing creek that helps create the beautiful waterfalls in the sanctuary. The sounds of the flowing water are truly relaxing and create a special serenity for visitors. It isn’t Cumberland Falls, but it is still beautiful.
5. There are hikes easy enough for everyone.
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keithreed01
Each short trail covers a couple of miles of scenic beauty, crossing streams, shady woodlands and floral meadows. Raven Run trails were designed to be easy, so that anyone could enjoy the beauty of nature. The combined mileage of all trails is around 8 miles.
4. Raven Run is filled with history.
Holly Lovings
Holly Lovings
Holly Lovings
The remnants of 19th century settlers can be seen, including one preserved home. There are graves, a small cemetery, stone walls, bridges, stone foundations and more. You can close your eyes and imagine the lives that were once led in this peaceful area.
3. There is a handicap accessible trail.
Keithreed01
Keithreed 01
The Freedom Trail is paved, around 1 mile and designed in a loop, so that people with disabilities can easily have access to nature’s beauty. Such visitors are not uncommon here, as they are welcomed by a trail where they can enjoy scenic views.
2. Restrooms and water fountains in the Nature Center make for a comfortable visit.
Pamela Ocempa
Water is available at the nature sanctuary and fountains are located in the nature center. Visitors are encouraged to bring bottled water when hiking to help stay hydrated. Restrooms are also available in the nature center.

1. Raven’s Run doesn’t get as much publicity as some of the bigger natural attractions, like Red River Gorge, but it is just as beautiful. Take a look at this video for more:

When it comes to finding serene, but easy hikes in Kentucky, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is the place to go. No trail is longer than 3 miles, and all but one are considered easy for anyone, including beginning hikers. The handicap accessible trail is an added bonus, as not many hiking trails offer that type of amenity. What is your favorite short hiking trail in our state?

For more information on Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Kentucky, including its seasonal hours, visit its website here. And to find the trails and nature center, head here… Address: 3885 Raven Run Way, Lexington, KY 40515

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More to Explore

Best Easy Hike In Kentucky

Andrea Limke | May 14, 2019

What are the best hiking trails in Kentucky? The list of the best hiking trails in Kentucky could be infinitely long, as our state offers so many spectacular options. The answer to this question depends on what type of hiking you'd like to do. If you want something short and sweet, but with a great pay off in a sweeping, scenic view, then check out the Chimney Top trail in Red River Gorge. In fact, some of the best hiking trails in the state can be found in this area. If you want to hike up in the mountains, head to Berea or east to areas like Pine Mountain. If you need more suggestions, check out some of our favorites here.

Does Kentucky have any backpacking trails? Kentucky not only has backpacking trails, but it offers some of the best "off the grid" hikes in the region. Daniel Boone National Forest has several trails that require more equipment and planning, just be sure to get a permit if you plan on doing any backcountry camping.

What are the best waterfall hikes in Kentucky? Kentucky again has many trails that include scenic waterfalls. Visit the tallest waterfall in the state with the Yahoo Falls trail in Whitley City. Or of course you can see the largest falls in Kentucky with a hike to Cumberland Falls in Corbin. While there, take the Eagle Falls Trail for views of two waterfalls. You can read more about this hike here.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Kentucky? Many hikers would say anytime is a great time to hike in Kentucky. But if you're not an avid trailblazer, then you'll likely want to stick to spring, summer, and fall. Winter hiking can get very slippery, muddy, and even flooded, but it does provide some interesting scenery if you're up for it.

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