One thing can never be disputed about our state, and that is the natural beauty we’ve been gifted with. There are so many enchanting spots to visit, camp, fish, boat or just absorb nature, a month wouldn’t be enough time to visit them all. We’ve put together a natural wonders road trip in Kentucky to get things started, but this is just the tip of our iceberg. Grab some friends and family and check out this natural adventure, or as much of it as you can. I’ll be the first to admit it is easy to get mesmerized by some of these locations and spend extra time.

Before you get started, refer to the natural wonders road trip map via Google Maps.

1. Rock House Natural Bridge, Albany

Located off Highway 379, this stone formation attracts people from all across the U.S. The stone itself is a very cool spot to stop and just soak up some nature, have a picnic, or explore the unique environment. The historic archway also has an Indian burial ground above it that has been preserved.

2. Yahoo Falls Overlook, Whitley City

The Yahoo Arch and WORD Yahoo Falls are both located in Daniel Boone National Forest, about an eighth of a mile apart in McCreary County. The arch is a nice shady spot to take a break. The falls make for a wondrous picnic spot and a great place to cool off on a hot summer day.

3. Daniel Boone National Forest, Winchester

The Yahoo Arch and Yahoo Falls are both located in Daniel Boone National Forest, about an eighth of a mile apart in McCreary County. The arch is a nice shady spot to take a break. The falls make for a wondrous picnic spot and a great place to cool off on a hot summer day.

4. Natural Bridge State Resort Park

If you travel out to 2135 Natural Bridge Road, you will find some amazing Mother Nature made connectors that allow one to see miles of preserved woodlands. These natural bridges are mostly made of sandstone and slate, but have withstood the tests of time. You can get some of the best photographs of the surrounding area from atop these natural creations.

5. Red River Gorge, Slade

The Gorge is one of the most renowned spots in Kentucky to go for camping, hiking, boating, fishing and just embracing nature. It is a beautiful area featuring more than 100 natural archs/bridges, huge rock formations for climbers, and even some roaring rapids for thrill seekers. The area is located in the Daniel Boone National Forest off Highway 715 and 15.

6. Big South Fork National Park, Campton

There is so much to see at the Big South Fork, as it goes on for miles. One of the favored spots is the area around 100 Henderson Street in Stearns. The river has some calm spots, perfect for swimming or fishing. The rocky surroundings are great for hiking enthusiasts and lead off into the lush woodlands. It is a perfect spot to get away to fish, swim, boat or just absorb the beauty of nature. You can also take the Big South Fork Scenic Railway for a tour of the area.

7. Mammoth Cave, Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave at 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the U.S., and is a great place to go exploring. The surrounding woodlands are great for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, but the caves themselves are the main attractions. With more than 400 miles of underground mapping, and much more to go, you will feel like it is a completely different world. Tours like the Frozen Niagara and Fat Man’s Misery will take you through spots that offer formations that seem more alien than earthy. Plus, the temperature stays a very cool 50 to 60 degrees.

8. Onyx Cave, Cave City

This unique cave at 101 Huckleberry Knob Road is a great place to visit if you don’t feel like going to the biggest cave in Kentucky. The unique formations are a barrage of shapes and structures, some looking alien, others appearing earthy. The natural stalactites are like a 3-D canvas that Mother Nature designed just for fun. It is well worth a visit.

9. Lost River Cave

This unique cave at 2818 Nashville Road has an underground river tour, which is the only one of its kind in Kentucky. It has a beautiful Blue Hole that will have you gazing into its depths for hours as well. The inner sanctuary of the cave was once a speak easy and hub of entertainment and excitement, with much of the structures still visible and some rooms available for rent. It is a remarkable place to spend a day and unlike any other cave system in Kentucky discovered, so far.

10. Cumberland Falls Moonbow

This beautiful waterfall at 7351 State Highway 90 is the Niagara of the South. It is a place that is almost magical, especially at night. On specific nights, visitors get to see the amazing moonbow. This is a truly enchanting experience, as Cumberland Falls is one of only two places in the world where moonbows regularly appear. Some people say fairies skip across the water on these special nights. If you have never visited the falls, this should definitely go on your Kentucky bucket list.

Taking a natural wonders road trip in Kentucky can be a truly magical experience. Mother Nature’s true artistry is visible in almost every area of our state. We have covered other unique places that you can visit too!