The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In Kentucky
By Will Suphan|Published May 10, 2023
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Will Suphan
Author
Will has been living in Arizona off and on for 30+ years in the Phoenix Metro and Tucson areas. He has traveled all over the state as well as having lived all over the Southwest. He's been writing for OnlyInYourState for one year and has previously written for Digital Journal. Will has a passion for travel and writing and combining the two is what he loves most. He loves solo international travel and has been to Thailand, France, Japan, and Cambodia.
Rural Kentucky has endless options for an outdoor getaway among the lush forests, and beautiful lakes, and enjoying a delicious small-town meal. We have a weekend itinerary for you which will provide all of these and more. From the charming small town of London to the gorgeous Daniel Boone National Forest, this itinerary provides a thoroughly enjoyable weekend in the most enjoyable outdoor adventures and activities in Kentucky!
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
Driving time is under two hours total once you're in the area, so you'll be able to spend the vast majority of your time enjoying the planned activities on this wonderful getaway into nature.
Hike at Vanhook Falls
Our adventure begins at the trailhead for the trail to Vanhook Falls in the stunning Daniel Boone National Forest.
This lovely out-and-back trail takes a little over two hours to complete and has serene creeks, abundant wildlife, and is dotted with little waterfalls all along the way. You'll see sizable rock slabs that are excellent for having a picnic upon and listening the to soothing creek trickling nearby.
All along this beautiful trail, you'll never be far from the sounds of flowing water. This area is known as the Sheltowee Trace, and when you reach the main falls, you'll see the water descend into a cathedral of sandstone. Locals love this area for birding, hiking, and camping, and this hike will relax and invigorate you.
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Swim, Kayak, and More At Holly Bay Marina
After that gorgeous hike, we'll take a short drive over to Laurel Lake where you can rent a motorized fishing boat, pontoon, and more, or bring your own kayak to paddle around.
There are tiny beaches dotted throughout all the tiny inlets where you can catch some rays or take a refreshing swim. If you're looking for a place to let your worries drift away, Holly Bay Marina is the place.
Pine Island Double Falls is a natural wonder in Kentucky that's simply breathtaking. It's a short hike that's open year-round and is one of the most gorgeous attractions in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Just be sure to watch your step as the trail can get narrow, steep, and muddy. However, the reward at the end is well worth it!
Locals love the Old Town Grill of London. It's the place to be for slow-roasted prime rib, yummy catfish, juicy burgers, creative cocktails, and much more. The extensive menu includes appetizers like fried green tomatoes, gator tail, and beer cheese & pretzels.
The main menu includes a vast variety of options such as various steaks, pork chops, ribs, pasta, chicken, seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and tons of sides and toppings to choose from. These cheeseburger and BBQ pork sliders alone make this hometown restaurant well worth visiting, especially with the entire family. You certainly won't leave hungry!
Rest With Comfort at Jolene’s
You've been hiking, sunning, boating, swimming, and just had a delicious and filling meal. It's about time to get some rest!
Jolene's is a wonderful vacation home that is spacious and comfy as can be. It's named after the famous song by Dolly Parton and you find her likeness in several places throughout this beautiful home.
There are two bedrooms with 3 beds total and 1100 square feet of space with laminate wood flooring everywhere. You'll find all the comforts of home with leather sofas, a full kitchen, a laundry room, and a furnished outdoor patio with a propane firepit table. This is comfort at its best!
We bet you’re ready to pack up and head out to this exciting weekend getaway in Kentucky! Once you’re done, let us know all about your experiences in the comments. We’d love to hear about your adventure! If you’d like even more options for outdoor adventures and activities in Kentucky, check out these incredible day trips.
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