Many are familiar with the trend of creating a bucket list of places we would like to visit before we pass on. Paris, the pyramids and Egypt, or the Grand Canyon may be at the top of your pie-in-the-sky list, but those large trips can be hard on your wallet and your vacation time allotment at work.
But what about a list of natural, can’t-miss landmarks that are right here in Kentucky? With natural beauty rivaling those headline acts around the world, it’s time to explore the monumental, stunning, and unparalleled gems right here in our own backyard.
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Mammoth Cave National Park
It’s hard to believe, but the world’s longest known cave system is right here in south central Kentucky! With more than 400 miles of underground caves, this aptly-named national park features a vast underground network of chambers and complex labyrinths ripe for exploration.
Take a ranger-led cave tour and learn about the history of these passages that were discovered nearly 4,000 years ago. Continue to explore the park by hiking its extensive network of nature trails, traversing the nearby rivers by canoe, or enjoying the beautiful vistas and terrain on a horseback ride.
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Big Bone Lick State Park
Among Kentucky’s 49 state parks, Big Bone Lick stands out for its bison herd, which recalls the area’s prehistoric past. In addition to bison, mammoths, elk, and mastodon also roamed this area, drawn to the salt lick deposited around the sulphur springs. An official Lewis and Clark historical site, William Clark was asked to undertake an expedition of this area at the request of President Thomas Jefferson, who was intrigued by its paleontological heritage.
Visitors will enjoy the walking trails, particularly the Discovery Trail that winds through several wetland and grassland habitats. Bird enthusiasts will find happiness year-round, spying warblers and hummingbirds in the spring and over 50 species of birds that make this area home come winter. Enjoy a night under the stars while camping at one of the park’s 62 spacious campsites.
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Creelsboro Natural Arch
In the southern region of the state, you will find a historic archway to the Cumberland River called the Creelsboro Natural Arch. A 300 million-year-old natural bridge of solid limestone called Rockhouse Bottom was used by Native Americans and early settlers as shelter from the elements. Today, visitors can hike to this amazing natural landmark and continue to the rushing cool waters of the Cumberland River. Kentucky is home to a number of natural arch formations, and Creelsboro Natural Arch is the largest national bridge east of the Rocky Mountains. The Creelsboro Natural Arch marks a blend of majestic natural beauty with the rugged pleasures of outdoor leisure pursuits.
Whether you’re a lifetime Kentuckian or an intrepid traveler in pursuit of some of the best natural landscapes in the country, these three natural landmarks will definitely not disappoint. Enjoy the clean air, the dramatic landscapes, and the picture-perfect vistas as you explore these incredible natural gifts.
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Image via Flickr by A Train
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