Go Wild For Wildflowers On These 7 Scenic Spring Hikes In Kentucky
By Sarah McCosham|Updated on March 08, 2024(Originally published April 05, 2022)
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
The landscape of the Bluegrass State is extraordinary during the spring when the rolling hills are covered in a near-endless array of winsome wildflowers and blooming foliage. Spring might just be our favorite time of year for hiking in Kentucky as our Great Outdoors burst into an almost synchronized spectacle of color. If you have a soft spot for this season, too, then we think you’ll want to check out the following hikes featuring scenic wildflowers in Kentucky.
1. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, 3885 Raven Run Wy, Lexington, KY 40515, USA
One of the most enchanting places to hike in the Bluegrass, Raven Run Nature Sanctuary comes alive in the spring. We're particularly fond of one of the most known wildflower hikes in Kentucky; while admittedly a bit strenuous, this fairy-tale path positively dazzles during the spring with its verdant greens and gold hues!
2. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, 3501 Lexington Rd, Harrodsburg, KY 40330, USA
A total hidden gem, the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is best known as a place to go to learn about a different way of life and a historic period. But what many people don't realize is that Shaker Village boasts some of the most peaceful scenic hiking trails in Kentucky. This trail system offers a variety of landscapes and everything from wildflowers to waterfalls, river views to rocky cliffs. If you need some time outdoors and want to try something new, take one of their KY wildflower trails within this remarkable oasis.
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3. John James Audubon State Park
John James Audubon Sp Golf Club, Henderson, KY 42420, USA
While stunning any time of the year, the John James Audubon State Park is particularly winsome in the spring. Enjoy a stroll or a more vigorous hike; the preserve offers six miles of hiking trails that range in difficulty, terrain, and scenery. Much of the park is within a dedicated Kentucky State Nature Preserve, too, so the surroundings are particularly untouched, with a bounty of wildflowers and native plants. With so much to explore, it's an ideal destination for spring hikes in Kentucky.
If you're anxious about missing peak Bluegrass spring blooms, Bernheim Arboretum’s Big Prairie is home to one of the season's signature flowers: the prairie coneflower. And when we say "home to" we mean there's a bona fide superbloom of these enchanting yellow flowers! In addition to checking out these wildflowers in Kentucky, check out the Canopy Tree Walk, which is lovely any season of the year!
5. Chained Rock Trail - Pine Mountain State Resort Park
Pine Mountain State Resort Park, 1050 State Park Rd, Pineville, KY 40977, USA
Kentucky State Parks boast some of the best places to find native spring wildflowers, dubbed "ephemerals" for their fleeting, short-lived bloom. These romantic beauties can be found along many of the state park system's 300 miles of trails, with an abundance to be seen along the Chained Rock Trail at Pine Mountain State Park.
This place is 1,159 acres of unfiltered Bluegrass beauty situated on the Pine Mountain ridge of the Appalachians. We think the spring spectacle on one the most popular wildflower hikes in Kentucky might result in a spontaneous "Sound of Music" moment.
Mammoth Cave is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in the world, and it's a huge point of pride for Kentucky. But if you limit your adventures to the subterranean variety, you're missing out. Mammoth Cave is home to some of the best spring hikes in Kentucky, outdoor recreation, and wildlife in the U.S. The wildflowers, especially, are fantastic. From the early spring days of March through the chilly afternoons of October, different wildflowers can be found across the park: prairie coneflowers, passionflowers, pink-blazing stars, and goldenrods. It's a veritable ROYGBIV of color at Mammoth Cave in the spring -- an experience you won't want to miss!
7. Carter Caves State Resort Park
Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
Another place best known for its underground adventures, the wildflowers at Carter Caves are extraordinary. The Three Bridges Trail at Carter Caves State Resort Park is an easy and enjoyable 3.5-mile loop that winds through the magical landscape and provides beautiful views. In the spring, the emerald greens and vibrant colors of the budding forest, as you emerge from the shadowy caverns, will make you feel as if you've stepped out into the technicolor world of Oz. Don't miss one of the best spring hikes in Kentucky.
What are your favorite wildflower hikes in Kentucky? Have you tried any of the above before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience in the following comments section.
When you’re looking for more beautiful trails, these spring hikes in Kentucky featuring waterfalls might be calling your name. To help you prepare for your outdoor adventures, check out our ultimate hiking guide.
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Wildflowers in Kentucky
Marla S. |March 07, 2024
What are some of the best spring hikes in Kentucky for families?
Indian Staircase Trail in Red River Gorge: During the spring, you and your family will be treated to impressive landscapes featuring wildflowers and rock formations as you hike this looped trail.
Resurgence Cave in Daniel Boone National Forest: Discover this scenic in-and-out trail that's just under 5 miles when you're planning to be near McKee, Kentucky.
Three Bridges Trail in Carter Caves State Resort Park: You and your family will feel like you've escaped to another world when you trek along this 3-and-a-half-mile trail. Along the way, be prepared to be wowed by vibrant scenery such as the forest and rock formations.
Cumberland Falls Trail: To reach the stunning waterfall on this well-known hike, you'll need to follow the path for about half a mile.
What are some popular things to do In spring in Kentucky?
In addition to taking one of the wildflower hikes in Kentucky, here are some popular things to do in the Bluegrass State during spring;
