The best walks and hikes in Daniel Boone National Forest
4.8
(127)
1,664
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114
hikes
Hiking in Daniel Boone National Forest explores a landscape characterized by rugged cliffs, sandstone arches, and dense woodlands across 21 counties in eastern Kentucky. The region, which includes the Red River Gorge Geological Area, features an extensive network of over 600 miles of trails. These paths wind through steep forested ridges, narrow ravines, and dramatic sandstone formations, offering routes through deep forests and to scenic overlooks. The forest is also home to numerous waterfalls and three large lakes.
Best hiking…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.8
(5)
64
hikers
5.66km
01:40
150m
150m
Embark on the Gray's Arch Loop, an easy hiking route that takes you through a varied forest canopy, showcasing a mix of Tulip-poplar, Sugar Maple, and various oaks and pines.…
4.7
(3)
41
hikers
7.37km
02:06
170m
160m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Auxier Ridge Trail to Courthouse Rock, a route that spans 4.6 miles (7.4 km) and involves a climb of 554 feet (169 metres).…
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4.3
(4)
26
hikers
9.26km
02:41
220m
240m
Embark on the Rush Ridge to Hanson's Point Loop for a moderate hiking adventure that covers 5.8 miles (9.3 km) with an elevation gain of 734 feet (224 metres). This…
4.6
(5)
26
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8.67km
02:32
230m
220m
Embark on the Indian Staircase and Cloud Splitter Loop for a moderate hiking adventure through the Red River Gorge. This route spans 5.4 miles (8.7 km) and involves a total…
5.0
(2)
25
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1.11km
00:22
50m
60m
Embark on an easy hike along the Sky Bridge Trail, a short 0.7 miles (1.1 km) route that takes about 22 minutes to complete. You will gain 168 feet (51…
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Tips from the Community
Cloud Splitter's history traces back at least a couple of thousand years before the first Europeans arrived in what is now Kentucky. Overlooks, including Cloud Splitter's summit, served as crucial lookout posts for the Adena Culture People, protecting against potential attacks from rival tribes in the Red River Gorge.
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Indian Staircase is a 50-foot scramble up out of the forest. The beginning is more like an actual staircase, but higher up the rock, which has foot and hand holds, hikers must use their hands and feet to climb up the sandstone. Getting up is half the work; coming down can be tricky too. Warning: This hike can be dangerous and possibly deadly. Gauge your ability, don't hike alone, and exercise extreme caution while climbing the Indian Staircase.
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Said to be named for its resemblance to a courthouse, this feature stands alone at the north end of Auxier Ridge. Reached as part of several possible loops, the stunning Courthouse Rock makes for an enticing mid-hike destination.
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Compared to other geological formations in the area, Haystack Rock's domed shape seems conspicuously different—topped by its disc-shaped apex and circumscribed by the lines that suggest its sedimentary layers.
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A perfect viewpoint for taking in the surrounding Red River Gorge geological area, especially when the leaves are in full fall color. Hanson's Point lies in the Cumberland Region of Daniel Boone National Forest, and Hanson's Point trail offers prime birdwatching and mushroom hunting at the right times of year.
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Grays Arch is a visually-striking, towering sandstone arch that pays off the effort made to reach it. For safety, the Forest Service recommends using only the eastern portion of the side trail to the arch before continuing on your loop (use the eastern section of #205 Grays Arch Trail as an out-and-back spur rather than as a bypass to connect to #221 Rough Trail on either side of the arch). As always in this area, sturdy footwear that offers good grip in wet conditions is a must!
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Impressive natural Arch with a tiny waterfall after the rain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Daniel Boone National Forest?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Daniel Boone National Forest, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. It's also important to pack out any waste to help keep the forest clean for everyone.
What are some good family-friendly hikes in the area?
For an easy and rewarding hike suitable for families, consider the Natural Bridge and Battleship Rock trail. It's a relatively short 2.5-mile (4.0 km) walk that leads to the base of a spectacular natural arch, offering impressive sights without a strenuous climb.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, the forest has several trails where you can see waterfalls. A great option is The Rock Bridge and Creation Falls loop in the Red River Gorge area. This short, 1.4-mile (2.2 km) trail is considered easy and leads you past the picturesque Creation Falls.
What's the difference between the Red River Gorge and Daniel Boone National Forest?
The Red River Gorge is a unique, rugged canyon system located within the larger Daniel Boone National Forest. While the entire forest offers extensive hiking, the Gorge is particularly famous for its high concentration of sandstone arches, cliffs, and rock shelters, making it a world-renowned destination for both hiking and rock climbing.
How many hiking trails are available in Daniel Boone National Forest?
There are over 70 hiking routes to explore in Daniel Boone National Forest on Komoot. The trails range from easy, short walks to challenging multi-day treks, covering more than 600 miles of marked paths through diverse landscapes.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The trails in Daniel Boone National Forest are highly regarded by the Komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning sandstone arches, well-maintained paths, and the dramatic views from the cliff-top overlooks.
Are there any good trails for seeing large rock formations?
Absolutely. The region is famous for its geology. For a route that showcases multiple impressive features, try the Natural Bridge, Lovers Leap, and Rock Garden Trail. This moderate loop takes you to a massive natural bridge and offers scenic views from Lovers Leap.
What kind of trail difficulty should I expect?
The forest offers a balanced mix of difficulties. About half of the trails are rated as easy, making them accessible for most visitors. The other half is split between moderate routes with some elevation gain and a smaller number of difficult trails for experienced hikers seeking a challenge.
Are there options for longer backpacking trips?
Yes, the forest is excellent for backpacking. The Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail is the longest trail in the forest, spanning its entire length and offering numerous opportunities for multi-day hikes. You can also connect various shorter trails in areas like the Red River Gorge to create custom backpacking loops.
What is a good hike for scenic views and a bit of a challenge?
For a moderately challenging hike with rewarding scenery, consider the Grays Arch loop. This 5.8-mile (9.4 km) trail takes you through dense forest to a massive, impressive arch and includes some rugged sections that make for an adventurous day out.
What should I pack for a day hike in the forest?
For a day hike, you should bring plenty of water, snacks, and a map of the area, as cell service can be unreliable. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential due to the rocky and sometimes uneven terrain. It's also wise to pack a rain jacket, as weather can change quickly, and a small first-aid kit.
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