Outdoor Escapes in Kentucky - Nature's Playground Awaits

Must-Do Outdoor Activities in the Bluegrass State

Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure on the water, on land or under it, you can find it in the Bluegrass State.

Outdoor attractions in Kentucky range from rock climbing (Red River Gorge is bucket list-worthy) to whitewater rafting Class IV and V rapids that only serious adventurers dare tackle (calmer waters can be found, too, and outfitters are available).

For travelers who like a little less thrill with their outdoor recreation, you can relax on Lake Cumberland, the Houseboat Capital of the World, watch wildlife (like the Eastern Kentucky elk herd, the largest of its kind east of the Rockies), or take the easy Chimney Top Trail “hike” (more of a stroll at just over half a mile along a paved path) in Daniel Boone National Forest.

And everyone can enjoy exploring Kentucky’s six national park properties and 44 state parks, wandering the world’s longest cave system (with a guide, of course) and visiting Cumberland Falls when it’s a full moon to try and glimpse the moonbow.

Spend a little time outdoors, and we know you’ll discover the legendary places and experiences that inspired Daniel Boone to proclaim: "Heaven must be a Kentucky kind of place."

Episode 101

KENTUCKY IN FOCUS: ELIA LOCARD

Horse Country

Elia combines photography with Kentucky’s rich traditions of horse farming and horse racing at a Lexington farm where he captures a sunset view. He learns about Kentucky’s history of horse racing from Rachel Collier Carr, Director Of Community Relations at Churchill Downs, then enjoys a horseback riding adventure at Kentucky Horse Park.

Kentucky Moments: Storytellers Series

Paul Tierney

Carter Caves State Resort Park, Olive Hill

Paul Tierney grew up exploring the caves of Eastern Kentucky, where he now helps others do the same as a park naturalist at Carter Caves State Resort Park in Olive Hill, Kentucky. He says it’s a great place to explore – both above ground and deep below it.

The Great Kentucky Outdoors