There’s no better way to explore hidden gems in Kentucky than a road trip. But if you don’t have time for a multi-day excursion, you can pack a whole lot of exploring into a one-day trip if you’re in the right place. That right place happens to be the charming town of Morehead, Kentucky in the heart of Rowan County. Home to a university at its center and surrounded by natural beauty, it’s the perfect choice for a one-day trip…just be sure to pack all your road trip essentials.
So load up your car with a full tank of gas - because you'll only need one. Only two hours from major cities like Louisville and Cincinnati, you can hit seven diverse attractions and hidden gems in a full day of travel on this road trip itinerary. Hop in the car and get ready for the ultimate hidden-gems road trip around Morehead, Kentucky.
Perfect for a sunny Saturday in the greater Morehead area, this one-day road trip won't have you spending all day in the car - you'll be exploring lakes, campgrounds, trails, museums, and even a waterpark. This diverse itinerary is great if you're a solo traveler, or if you're bringing the whole family or gang along.
1. Cave Run Lake
With over 200 miles of shoreline, Cave Run Lake is a popular year-round destination that will make you forget you're not at the coast. Known as the muskie capital of the south, it is a lake great for fishing, sailing, or relaxing on the open water.
2. Twin Knobs Campground
You'll want to explore this family-friendly destination and check out its impressive accommodations. Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest with great beach access, it's equipped with basketball and volleyball courts, picnic areas, an amphitheater, scenic foot trails, and more.
3. Lockegee Rock
The whole community is located in the Daniel Boone National Forest and the views are truly spectacular. Just take a roughly one-mile hike to the summit, and you'll be rewarded with a stunning vista of the entire area at Lockegee Rock.
4. Kentucky Folk Art Center
Speaking of art, you won't want to miss one of the most whimsically unique little museums in Kentucky. This historic building houses almost 1,400 pieces from local and self-taught artists plus an always-changing collection of fine art and artifacts. Don't miss the gift shop for some unforgettable mementos.
5. Sheltowee Falls Splash Pad
Are the kids getting a little antsy? Is it just a little too hot in the summer sun? Head to this one-of-a-kind outdoor mini-waterpark. Themed to the natural environment around Morehead, it's full of unique water features including a pair of thrilling water slides. Plus, kids will love climbing up to the treehouse for a great view.
6. Eagle Lake
Morehead State University is the centerpiece of the city, and the campus has a stunning eighteen-acre lake right on its grounds. This is a perfect place to stop, relax, and take in the cool lake air. If you've brought a picnic, this is a great place to fuel up before you head to your final adventure...
7. Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail
One of the largest trails in Kentucky, the whole path spans the entirety of the Daniel Boone National Forest. The bridges, rivers, and amazing views are a great draw for nature lovers. Morehead, home to the Northern Terminus of the Sheltowee, is unique for another reason. The town continues to be the only town where the trail meanders directly along Main Street. Trail users can enjoy local eateries, shopping and more as they traverse the trail and escape back into the woods.
Watch this cool aerial tour by explorer Kentucky Creek Adventures showing some of the pretty scenes of Morehead Kentucky. It’s such a great town to visit.
https://youtu.be/vALLGbOrKII?si=A5ePr7_BNqSxrhck
Have you explored Morehead, Kentucky before? If there are any hidden gems in Kentucky you would add to this itinerary, let us know all about them in the comments section. Before your next visit to the area, make sure to check out this website featuring more attractions in Morehead Kentucky.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!