These top 5 hidden gems in Kentucky will leave you wanting to explore more and more. Kentucky has so many “hidden gems” and these are just touching the surface. These 5 locations made it to the top of the Hidden Gems in Kentucky list because of what they have to offer, from waterfalls, to abandoned mining communities, these locations have it all!
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
In this paragraph, we will focus on Bernheim which is home of the Forest Giants. This arboretum and research forest is the ultimate destination to bring the family, kids, and even your friends. In addition, Bernheim is open from 7 am – 8 pm daily all throughout the year other than Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve.
The grounds are free to visit. Moreover, a $10 donation is recommended per car for non-members. Now, on to the best part, the Forest Giants.
Additionally, Danish artist Thomas Dambo created the Forest Giants in Bernheim. Check out more of his work HERE.
Buzzard Rock
Buzzard Rock is located in Big South Fork; in McCreary County Kentucky. This lesser known trail is the perfect destination if you are looking to get away and not worry about many people around. Buzzard Rock is 1.3 miles long total and features a beautiful overlook at the end!
Pine Island Double Falls
This waterfall is definitely one of my favorite waterfalls here in Kentucky! This trail is heavily trafficked, however, many people still do not know about the double falls. The trail is a 1.4 mile out and back that is located near London, Kentucky/and is ranked as moderate. You do have to do some scrambling up and down to reach the falls. However, the payoff is worth it!
Blue Heron
Nestled near Stearns, Kentucky is Blue Heron, also known as Mine 18. It is an abandoned coal mining town which is said to be haunted. The coal mining town was a part of the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company’s past operation. Moreover, the mine operated from 1937 until 1962 where operations ceased due to not being profitable. Check out Mine 18 HERE.
Clear Creek Hollow Trail
Last, Nestled near Pineville, Kentucky and nearby Clear Creek Baptist Bible College lies Clear Creek Hollow Trail AKA “Clear Creek Fitness Trail”. The trailhead located near the Bible College is .4 mi. one way and is ranked easy in difficulty.
This trail takes you back in time by following the route of the former however, now abandoned L&N (Louisville & Nashville) railway grade. In addition, this old railway route is formerly a spur off the L&N. Click HERE to read more on the Clear Creek Hollow Trail.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kentucky is jam packed with many Hidden Gems and these are just a handful of what there is to be explored. From beautiful waterfalls, to coal mining camps, to abandoned railroad/railways Kentucky sure has it all!
Have you ever visited any of these hidden gems?
What would you add to this list?
Click HERE to visit more articles on Kentucky Destinations.
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