10 Best Things to do in Daniel Boone National Forest
Tucked into the heart of eastern Kentucky lies one of the most underrated outdoor destinations in the U.S., Daniel Boone National Forest. Covering more than 700,000 acres of rugged terrain, it’s a playground for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in raw, Appalachian beauty. From towering sandstone arches and lush canyons to waterfalls, caves, and tranquil lakes, this forest offers an unforgettable first-time experience for every kind of adventurer.
Overview
Named after the legendary American pioneer, Daniel Boone National Forest stretches across 21 counties and boasts an incredible range of landscapes. The forest is broken up into multiple districts and includes famous areas like the Red River Gorge Geological Area and Natural Bridge State Park.
The terrain is wild and diverse, expect sheer cliffs, hardwood forests, deep ravines, limestone caves, and scenic rivers. The forest supports hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. It’s also a top destination for rock climbing, paddling, and camping. Whether you’re planning a relaxing nature trip or an action-packed adventure, Daniel Boone National Forest is full of surprises.
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10 Best Things to Do in Daniel Boone National Forest
10. Hike to Natural Bridge
This massive sandstone arch is one of Kentucky’s most iconic landmarks. Spanning 78 feet and perched high above the forest canopy, Natural Bridge offers one of the best panoramic views in the entire state. You can reach the arch via several hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes or take the sky lift for a more leisurely ascent. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking overlook, especially during sunrise or fall foliage season. In order to get here, you’ll need to enter in Natural Bridge State Park (in Kentucky, there’s also a different one in Virginia).
9. Explore Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge is the crown jewel of Daniel Boone National Forest. This geological wonderland is filled with over 100 natural sandstone arches, slot canyons, rock shelters, and towering cliffs. It’s a dream location for hikers, photographers, and rock climbers. Popular trails include Gray’s Arch (a moderate hike to a sweeping natural formation), Rock Bridge Trail (which leads to a waterfall and the only true arch over water in the area), and the short but stunning Sky Bridge Loop. The landscape here is dramatic and unlike anywhere else in the eastern U.S.
8. Chase Waterfalls
The forest is home to several picturesque waterfalls tucked into remote hollows and canyons. Creation Falls is a serene cascade surrounded by mossy rocks and is often combined with the Rock Bridge Trail. Yahoo Falls, standing at 113 feet, is the tallest waterfall in Kentucky and features a tranquil trail that leads behind the falls themselves. Eagle Falls offers incredible views of Cumberland Falls and is accessible via a moderate hike with riverside views. For a quiet, less-traveled spot, Flat Lick Falls provides a peaceful escape with an easy walking trail and swimming hole.
7. Go Rock Climbing
Red River Gorge is a mecca for climbers and considered one of the top sport climbing destinations in the world. With hundreds of bolted routes and climbing areas ranging from beginner to expert levels, it’s the ultimate vertical playground. Even if you’re not a climber, watching others scale the cliff walls at spots like Muir Valley or The Motherlode can be a thrill. There are also several climbing guides in the area if you want to try it for the first time.
6. Drive the Scenic Byways
Sometimes the best way to take in the forest is from behind the wheel. The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway winds through some of the most stunning areas in the park, offering pull-offs with views of cliff-lined valleys, rivers, and archways. Another favorite is the Wilderness Road Heritage Highway, which follows part of Daniel Boone’s original trail and highlights the area’s rich frontier history. These drives are especially rewarding in the fall when the forest blazes with color.
5. Kayak or Canoe on the Lakes and Rivers
For a change of pace, head to the water. Cave Run Lake, nestled within the northern part of the forest, is perfect for kayaking, fishing, or relaxing on the beach. The water is calm, the surroundings are lush, and it’s not overly crowded. Laurel River Lake offers clear waters ideal for paddling and has several scenic coves and hidden spots to explore. For a more adventurous option, paddle along parts of the Cumberland River, where the current and narrow passages provide an exciting challenge. One of the most popular for rentals is River and Earth Adventures, located in Boone Kentucky.
4. Hike the Double Arch & Courthouse Rock Loop
This scenic 6-mile loop in Red River Gorge offers some of the most iconic views in the forest. You’ll pass beneath the impressive Double Arch, climb to panoramic viewpoints, and stand atop Courthouse Rock—an isolated stone outcrop with sweeping vistas. The trail weaves through lush forest, rock shelters, and cliffside edges, making it a perfect half-day hike for those seeking adventure without the crowds.
3. Backpack the Sheltowee Trace Trail
For those seeking solitude and immersion in the wilderness, the Sheltowee Trace Trail delivers. Stretching over 300 miles through Daniel Boone National Forest and beyond, this trail is perfect for section hikes or multi-day treks. It weaves through dense forests, over ridgelines, past waterfalls, and across suspension bridges. The trail’s name honors Daniel Boone himself, “Sheltowee” was his Shawnee name, meaning “Big Turtle.” Whether you hike a few miles or a few dozen, it offers a backcountry experience unlike any other in Kentucky.
2. Zipline Above the Trees
For a high-adrenaline experience, take to the skies on a zipline tour. Several outfitters in the Red River Gorge such as Red River Gorge Zipline offer guided ziplining experiences that send you soaring above the treetops, cliffs, and valleys. It’s an exhilarating way to get a bird’s-eye view of the forest, and many tours include multiple lines of varying lengths and speeds. Some even cross gorges or hover over creeks and hardwood forests. It’s a family-friendly activity and ideal for non-hikers wanting a dose of excitement.
1. Witness the Moonbow at Cumberland Falls
Cumberland Falls, often called the “Niagara of the South,” is a powerful 68-foot waterfall that plunges into a wide gorge below. What makes it truly special is the rare phenomenon called a moonbow, a nighttime rainbow created by moonlight reflecting off the mist of the falls. It only occurs during clear nights near a full moon, making it one of only a few places in the world where this happens consistently. Even without the moonbow, the falls are spectacular and well worth the visit.
Hidden Gems
• Raven Rock Overlook
A quiet, lesser-known cliff that offers sweeping views without the crowds.
• Beaver Creek Wilderness
A remote area filled with solitude, perfect for experienced hikers wanting a backcountry experience.
• Whittleton Arch Trail
Often overshadowed by more popular hikes, this short trail leads to a massive arch and is especially beautiful in the fall.
• Fitchburg Furnace
An old iron furnace tucked into the forest, a fascinating historical site that feels like a secret.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (April–May): Waterfalls are at full flow, wildflowers bloom, and temperatures are mild.
- Summer (June–August): Great for swimming and kayaking, but prepare for heat, humidity, and bugs.
- Fall (September–October): Peak foliage season—arguably the most beautiful time to visit. Cooler temps and colorful views.
- Winter (December–February): Quiet and peaceful, but some trails and services may be limited. Great for solitude.
5-Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival + Red River Gorge Intro
- Check in to a cabin or campsite
- Hike to Gray’s Arch
- Sunset at Sky Bridge
Day 2: Natural Wonders Day
- Visit Natural Bridge State Park
- Ride the skylift
- Afternoon at Rock Bridge and Creation Falls
- Dinner in nearby Slade
Day 3: Waterfalls + Hidden Trails
- Early morning visit to Dog Slaughter Falls
- Explore Yahoo Falls and Beaver Creek Wilderness
- Optional ziplining or scenic drive
Day 4: Lakes + Leisure
- Kayak on Cave Run Lake
- Picnic by the water
- Easy hike at Whittleton Arch or Van Hook Falls
Day 5: History + Departure
- Visit Fitchburg Furnace
- Short hike or scenic overlook stop
- Head home via the Red River Gorge Byway
Where to Stay (According to Itinerary)
- Days 1–3: Red River Gorge/Slade Area (check hotels)
- Day 4: Near Cave Run Lake (check hotels)
- Day 5: Either extend at the lake or return to Red River Gorge for a final night
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Packing List
You can get a majority of the items here on my Amazon gear list:
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Layers for variable weather (especially in spring/fall)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Bug spray and tick repellent
- Water bottle or hydration pack
- Map or offline GPS app
- Snacks or trail food
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Swimsuit and towel (for lakes or waterfalls)
- First aid kit
- Lightweight backpack for day hikes
- Climbing gear if you’re into climbing
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Final Thoughts
Daniel Boone National Forest is a hidden gem in plain sight, offering towering arches, lush valleys, and experiences that rival any national park. Whether you’re climbing sandstone cliffs, hiking into remote wilderness, or floating on a peaceful lake, the forest delivers adventure, beauty, and serenity in equal measure. For first-time visitors, the key is to go slow, soak in the scenery, and let this Kentucky treasure surprise you. With proper planning and an open spirit, you’re bound to fall in love with one of the Southeast’s greatest outdoor escapes.
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Hi Vitaliy,
Thanks so much for writing this! I am headed down from Cleveland towards Great Smokey Mountains National Park and onward along Blue Ridge Pkwy. I was curious about Daniel Boone NF and your article here was the first I found.
I appreciate you highlighting your favorites and demystifying a few things, since it’s really hard to find things in some of these national forests since they don’t get the visits the national parks get. We’ve seen most of the national parks though, so I’m trying to find more of the better kept secrets in the national forests. This will actually be our first road trip in years through the Appalachians and usually we go out West. I’ll have to see your recommendations for PNW since we’re headed there for 3 weeks this summer.
Again, thanks!
You are most welcome Lee! I’d like to add some suggestions for the direction you’re heading in (from Cleveland to Great Smoky Mountains):
1) First, I’d absolutely recommend you stop by Hocking Hills National Park (south of Cleveland). It’s an astounding park.
2) Then as you head further south into Kentucky and Daniel Boone National Forest, you’ll find a lot of the stuff I mention on the way. Just make sure to label the spots you wish to see on your GPS ahead of time in case you lose connection.
3) Blue Ridge Parkway is very nice, but it does get repetitive. You may want to check out my post here on things to see on the Appalachian Mountains (which shows you where it starts on the northeast down to Atlanta).
4) Finally, Great Smoky Mountain National Park is gorgeous and when I went there, it was only really a drive through, but if you want to stop anywhere, Gatlinburg is the closest town with tons to do.
Hope you have a safe and awesome trip. And if you have any questions about where to go, or about the PNW (or south west like Utah, Arizona, ect…) feel free to ask me anytime.
Hello I have several questions I would like to please ask you, do you have an email?
Hi Sheryl, you can reach out to me on my contact page here.
Some places I recommend in the Northern part of the Daniel Boone are Lockegee Rock and The abandoned fire tower! Lockegee is very close to Morehead and while it is not a very long hike it is some mild rock climbing which leads to a beautiful view! The abandoned fire tower while not a long hike it a huge amount of stairs which lead to the fire tower that you can still go up to this day and get a spectacular view!
Nice suggestions Lexi! Really appreciate you sharing that and I will be sure to add this to my list the next time I go to Daniel Boone National Forest!
I’m not the most experienced outdoors men.
Is this trek good for novices like myself?
What do you recommend i pack for the trip?
Visiting Daniel Boone next weekend for memorial day weekend.
Hi Seth, which exact areas in Daniel Boone National Forest are you visiting? Considering it is huge, you’ll find a lot of options for experienced and inexperienced hikers. For the latter, I recommend more of the northern end of Daniel Boone and visiting places like the Sky Bridge (The famous natural bridge) and Red Gorge.
Both these places are very scenic and some hiking is involved, but nothing too crazy.
For natural bridges, the hike to the actual spot is about a half a mile, and it can be steep but it’s made for the general public to access it.
For Red Gorge, there’s plenty of areas in the loop to go hiking and access parking areas which lead to overlooks, and those overlooks are pretty close to the parking area, which is also an easy hike.
Just bring bug spray because there’s a lot of sweat bees in the area. Enjoy that memorial day weekend!