The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Powell County

The Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail is Kentucky's answer to a long-distance adventure, guiding you through a rugged and untamed landscape of narrow ridges, deep ravines, and impressive sandstone cliffs. You'll traverse diverse forest ecosystems, pass by numerous waterfalls, and witness iconic natural features like the majestic Cumberland Falls and the serene Laurel River Lake. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while autumn transforms the landscape with brilliant foliage, making either season a fantastic time to experience the trail's ever-changing scenery.

Planning your visit requires preparation for this difficult 401.0-mile (645.4 km) route, which involves 33034 feet (10068 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated 176 hours and 57 minutes of hiking. The trail is well-marked with white diamonds featuring a turtle image, making it easy to follow. While some sections are multi-use, allowing for activities like mountain biking, the core experience is a challenging hike. For long-distance trekkers, resupply points are typically available within 60 miles, and checking with the Sheltowee Trace Association for current trail conditions and any permit requirements for camping is highly recommended.

Named in honor of Daniel Boone, who was called "Sheltowee" (meaning "Big Turtle") by the Shawnee, this trail is the backbone of an extensive interconnecting system within the Daniel Boone National Forest. It links to many other trails, offering opportunities for shorter day hikes or loop options. Beyond its natural beauty, the trail holds historical significance, passing through areas where Daniel Boone blazed the "Wilderness Road" and near the site of the Battle of Camp Wildcat, offering a rich blend of wilderness and history.

Step into a verdant ravine on the Rock Bridge Trail #207, where towering hemlocks and dense rhododendrons create a peaceful canopy. This easy 1.4-mile (2.2 km) loop, with a modest 169 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along Swift Camp Creek to two stunning natural features: the unique Rock Bridge, an arch spanning directly over water, and the serene Creation Falls with its inviting pool. Expect around 38 minutes of hiking through varied terrain, from paved sections to uneven dirt paths, making it a delightful and accessible journey into nature.

Planning your visit is simple, as the trailhead offers ample parking, often with restrooms and picnic areas. The trail is considered family-friendly, though some sections have carved stairs and uneven ground, so watch your footing. It's also a dog-friendly route, just remember to keep your canine companion on a leash. Be aware that black bears inhabit the area, so secure your food properly.

Nestled within the Red River Gorge Geological Area of Kentucky's Daniel Boone National Forest, this trail is celebrated for its geological marvels. The Rock Bridge is particularly notable as the only naturally occurring arch in the Gorge that spans over water, offering a truly unique experience. The trail also provides convenient access to other routes like the Swift Camp Creek Trail #219, making it a great starting point for exploring more of the region's natural beauty.

The Chimney Top and Half Moon Arch Trail offers a fascinating journey through the Red River Gorge, blending accessible overlooks with more adventurous, unmarked paths. You'll begin with the Chimney Top Rock Trail, a short, mostly paved walk to a stunning viewpoint 400 feet above the Red River, offering expansive views of Half Moon Rock and the surrounding gorge. The route then transitions to the Half Moon Arch Trail, an unofficial path that requires navigating steep terrain and scrambling over exposed cliffs to reach the arch itself, which provides unique framed views of the valley.

This 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hiking trail is rated easy overall, with a total elevation gain of 398 feet (121 metres), and typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete. While the Chimney Top section is family-friendly, the Half Moon Arch portion is best for experienced hikers comfortable with unmarked routes and some exposure. Always exercise caution, especially at the Chimney Top overlook's steep drop-offs, and avoid venturing alone on the Half Moon Arch section due to its inherent risks.

Historically, Half Moon Arch was a significant site for early rock climbing, and it remains one of the most accessible "secret" arches in the Red River Gorge, visible from the Chimney Top Overlook. The area is known for its densely forested valleys, and in late May, mountain laurels bloom, adding a sweet scent to the air. This combination of well-maintained paths and rugged, unofficial trails makes for a diverse and memorable Red River Gorge experience.