7 Outdoor Winter Adventures To Experience In The Kentucky Wildlands
By Jasmine Vieau|Published November 15, 2023
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Jasmine Vieau
Author
Hello! I was born and raised in Toronto, lived in Miami for a decade, attended the Miami International University of Art & Design, and have resided in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, for the past 15+ years. I enjoy traveling all over the United States, Canada, and Europe - though I have a great appreciation and love for the southeastern parts of the US in particular. My past expertise lay in hospitality in the restaurant and retail world. Aside from writing, I now run an Airbnb in my home and sling vintage, so I'd like to think this all helps me with what it takes to find the best restaurants, lodging, and fun things to do and see in your state. I am an avid reader, love exploring the arts, and discovering the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Nice to meet you!
Get ready to amp up your winter vibes with my scoop on the best outdoor winter activities in the Kentucky Wildlands. Forget the winter blues – here’s your ticket to a season full of fun adventures that everyone can enjoy. From cave explorations to elk tours, winter hikes, and the magical frozen waterfalls, I’m spilling the beans on the best ways to embrace the chill. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for some holiday cheer, come along as I dish out the lowdown on the must-try winter escapades in the Kentucky Wildlands.
1. Carter Caves Winter Adventure Weekend
Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
Taking place the last full weekend of January, Winter Adventure Weekend at Carter Caves State Resort Park offers amazing winter fun for adventurers of all ages and skill levels. Participants can choose from a number of incredible “field trips,” including cave tours (ranging from walking tours to more advanced cave exploring), hiking, yoga in Cascade Cave, stargazing, rappelling, and kayaking.
2. Elk Tours
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, 419 Jenny Wiley Dr, Prestonsburg, KY 41653, USA
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park hosts guided elk tours through early March (viewing is best in the fall and winter). With the largest elk herd east of the Rocky Mountains (11,000 strong) roaming the area, you’re bound to experience the magic of seeing these animals up close when you book a tour. Elk can be spotted at Southfork Elk View as well, which also has free-roaming horses.
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3. Winter Hikes
Princess Arch Trailhead, Pine Ridge, KY 41360, USA
If you're craving winter activities in the Kentucky Wildlands, lace up your boots and hit the trails. One standout option is the 0.9-mile Princess Arch Trail in Red River Gorge, a perfect winter hiking destination. As you trek along this path, surrounded by pine and hardwood, you'll reach the striking 32-foot Princess Arch. Whether you explore beneath it or stand on top, it's a winter hiking experience that blends scenic beauty with a touch of thrill. Just keep an eye out for snow or ice on the trail, ensuring a safe and enjoyable winter hike in the heart of the Cumberland District within Daniel Boone National Forest.
Waterfalls are definitely a thing to see in the summer, but have you ever seen a frozen waterfall? Experience the winter magic at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Watch as the famous Cumberland Falls, known as the "Niagara of the South," standing 68 feet in height and stretching 125 feet in width, transforms into a stunning icy spectacle, adding an extra layer of snowy enchantment to this scenic destination.
5. Stearns Polar Express
Big South Fork Scenic Railway, 66 Henderson St, Stearns, KY 42647, USA
For those who love a holiday train ride, Stearns in Kentucky Wildlands has one of the few official Polar Express rides in the South. Enjoy a roundtrip journey to the North Pole via the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, accompanied by hot chocolate, a special gift, and a meet-and-greet with Santa.
6. Ashland Festival of Trees and Trains and Winter Wonderland of Lights
The Festival of Trees and Trains is a ten-day annual holiday fundraiser that features elaborately decorated Christmas trees, on display to the public and up for bidding, to support the historic Paramount Arts Center theater in Ashland, Kentucky. Ashland also hosts the Winter Wonderland of Lights festival for five weeks during the holiday season, which has 60 holiday displays and over 800,000 lights.
7. Christmas Island
Christmas Island, 8801 US Hwy 27, Bronston, KY 42518, USA
This much-loved holiday tradition returned several years ago after a long hiatus. General Burnside Island State Park, located off Lake Cumberland, transforms into Christmas Island for the holidays, showcasing an impressive light show with thousands of lights and fun holiday displays from mid-November through December.
Have you explored any of these spots for the best outdoor winter activities in the Kentucky Wildlands? I love the idea of taking an elk tour – it sounds epic! How about you? Share your thoughts and any recommendations!
If you’re getting ready for a road trip to visit any of these winter gems, remember to put together a handy packing list. It’ll enhance your adventure!
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