Who was the real Daniel Boone: rejector of civilization or determined settler? Well, like many interesting mythic figures, Daniel Boone was a paradox. He was both, which makes this a fitting forest to be named after him. The Daniel Boone National Forest combines rugged wildlands and ready civilization. Appealing small towns, comfortable state park lodging, and a great recreation infrastructure make this a tip-top forest for adventuring. Read More »
Daniel Boone National Forest Highlights
- Hike the length of Daniel Boone National Forest along the incredibly scenic Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail. This 250-mile thru-hiking route passes through canyons, along narrow ridgetops, and alongside rivers and lakes, encompassing the best of the forest. Camping areas are abundant, as well as shorter trails for enjoyable day hikes. In all, there are more than 500 miles of developed trails here.
- Tackle the popular Natural Arch Trail in the forest's Somerset District for a look at the landmark 50-by-90-foot bore hole in the rock face. While you’re there, don't forget the less traveled yet equally impressive trails—try the Great Gulf Bottom and Nathan McClure trails.
- Paddle Kentucky's best whitewater on the North Fork of the Cumberland River. For a leisurely float, the stretch above Cumberland Falls is relatively benign; things get more raucous—up to Class III—below the falls as the river squeezes through a rocky gorge. This is one of the few rivers in the region that can be run year-round.
- For rock-climbing, the sandstone arches, canyons, and ridges of Daniel Boone are reminiscent of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah—but with a hardwood covering. This terrain makes for some good technical climbing, especially in the Red River Gorge area. Pitches vary in length and difficulty.
- For some unforgettable night hiking, wait for a full moon and then head to the 125-foot-wide curtain of water and mist at Cumberland Falls—the largest waterfall east of the Rockies after Niagara. An iridescent moonbow is visible for two nights before and after a full moon, while the glistening moonlit trail and accompanying hooting of owls only add to the magic.
- Explore the Red River Gorge Geological Area by road bike on a 30-mile interconnected loop along KY 77 and KY 715. This loop takes you down into the gorge and exposes the different ecosystems of the northern and southern halves of the forest.
- Multiple use trails are scattered throughout this 700,000-acre destination, with the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail being one of the most popular for equestrians.
- The forest features three equestrian campgrounds. Little Lick Campground is strategically located for horseback riders using the 15-mile end-to-end Nathan McClure Trail. Part of the trail passes by Lake Cumberland.
- The greater Cave Run Lake trail system, 40 miles of interconnected paths, is open to horses. White Sulphur Horse Camp, for equestrians only, makes for the ideal jumping off point.
- The Stearns District, located adjacent to the equestrian mecca of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, offers multiple miles of trails through hills and hollows. Bell Farm and Barren Fork horse camps make multi-day stays a breeze.
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Daniel Boone National Forest Travel Q&A
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What's your favorite hike? Where's the best campsite? Join the conversation! Ask Your Question
What You Can Do in Daniel Boone National Forest
- Biking
- Camping
- Climbing
- Fishing
- Hiking and Backpacking
- Horseback Riding
- Nature
- Paddling
- Scenic Drives
Articles & Advice on Daniel Boone National Forest
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- National Scenic Trails - Sheltowee Trace
- Trail Notes
- Daniel Boone National Forest
- Hiking
- On Fall's Trail in Kentucky
- What to Do and Where to Do It
Where are you going?
What do you want to do?
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Parks Near Daniel Boone National Forest
- Levi Jackson State Park,KY (23 mi.)
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park,KY (31 mi.)
- Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park,KY (32 mi.)
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