I’ve wanted to get more into hiking. As someone who struggles with depression and low Vitamin D levels, being outside is important for my mental health. It’s also great for physical health, and I’m excited to find new areas of Kentucky to explore. I wanted to share my experiences, and some hiking photos for those looking for fun places in Kentucky for adventures. Taking my pup on hiking trips is also something I also want to do more, so I’m including what locations I’ve found are pet friendly, and which ones encourage you to leave your furry friends at home.

*Hiking locations in this post will go in alphabetical order.

Cove Spring Park

Frankfort, KY – pet friendly // Cove Spring Website

Cove Spring is a nature preserve with about 240 acres of land to explore. There are several trails, including one that will take you over a waterfall. The two main waterfalls are toward the beginning of the trails, so if you want to go for a nice little picnic or just to take some pictures (there was a group taking prom pictures while we were there), this location is great. This was my pup’s first ever hike, and he loved it. There were lots of areas for him to drink some water and splash around, and he enjoyed the walk around the trails.

Tesalate sent over this workout towel, and it’s great for hikes. It’s constructed with zinc, making it antibacterial, helping it stay odor free, and helping it to prevent mold and mildew (important when you’re using is to wipe away sweat). I love the leopard design, but it also comes in a few different color options. I love the ultra-absorbent fabric, and the rapid drying time – very handy for hikes!

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

Lexington, KY – not pet friendly // RRNS Website

Raven Run has a few trails available for hiking. They have a trail that leads to a gorgeous view of the Kentucky River (see below), a trail that leads to Evan’s Mill, a trail that runs mostly through a meadow, and more. I hiked this one alone at the beginning of May with no trouble, and I can’t wait to go back and explore more of the trails. I took the red trail, and it was all downhill from start to the falls below, and uphill back to the Nature Center. Definitely save some water for the hike back up.

Red River Gorge / Natural Bridge

Stanton, KY – not pet friendly // RRG Website

I hiked my way to Natural Bridge at 31, and it was so gorgeous. We went at the end of March, when it was still pretty cool weather-wise. It’s all uphill from the start of the trail to the bridge, so be prepared for that. The way back down is all downhill. There are many more trails that look beautiful, that I’d love to go back and hike.

If you head out to the Gorge, be sure to stop by Miguel’s Pizza, located about a mile away from the Natural Bridge trail.

The Pinnacles

Berea, KY – pet friendly // Pinnacles Website

I wanted to head up to The Pinnacles for Fall. I’d seen pictures, and knew the view would be great. Fall is my absolute favorite, and the view did not disappoint. This was one of the more challenging trails I’ve done; the incline to get to the lookout is pretty steep, so just be aware that this hike is pretty much straight uphill… but absolutely worth it.