Paintsville, Kentucky, is surrounded by plenty of outdoor beauty. One of the best ways to see this beauty is by heading out on a hiking trail. The next time you’re looking to do some hiking around Paintsville, check out a few of these great trails.
1. Paintsville Lake State Park
Sitting along the banks of Paintsville Lake, the 242-acre Paintsville Lake State Park has several great trails to explore. You can choose one of the trails that hug the edge of some of the steep cliffs in the park, or you can head out on a trail that winds along the wooded coves of the lake’s shoreline. If you’re interested in a trail that’s good for the entire family, the 1.6-mile Kiwanis Trail is a popular option. This easy trail starts across from the administration building at Mountain Home Place and offers plenty of scenic lake views.
2. Dawkins Line Rail Trail
One of the newest walking and biking trails in the state is the Dawkins Line Rail Trail. The trail is currently 18 miles long. However, when construction of the second phase of the trail is complete, the trail will be 36 miles in length and the longest rail trail in Kentucky. The trail follows the out-of-use Dawkins Line railroad, which makes it easy for hiking. In addition to enjoying plenty of scenic views along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to check out some unique features, such as the 662-feet-long Gun Creek Tunnel.
3. Yatesville Lake State Park
Yatesville Lake State Park is another lakeside park that offers a nice selection of hiking trails. One popular option in the park is the Mary Ingle Trail System, which is located at the marina. Here you have your choice of six separate trail loops, including two exercise paths, three rugged and wooded hiking trails, and one self-interpretive nature trail that’s also ADA accessible.
4. Cabwaylingo State Forest
Located a short drive from Paintsville in Wayne County, West Virginia, Cabwaylingo State Forest offers 8,123 heavily wooded acres and an abundance of hiking trails. The park has 9 miles of trails that let you view a variety of wildflowers and explore the overhanging rock cliffs that early settlers once used for shelter. Some popular trails include Spruce Creek Trail, Ash Branch Trail, and Sleepy Hollow Trail.
5. Daniel Boone National Forest
You’ll have no problems finding a hiking trail to explore when you head to the sprawling 2.1 million-acre Daniel Boone National Forest. The forest has more than 600 miles of trails that range in length and difficulty. You can find everything from short day trip hikes to overnight backpacking adventures. One beautiful part of the forest to hike is the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which consists of rugged terrain, sandstone cliffs, and exposed limestone rock faces. Whether you’re interested in hiking on a trail that hugs a lakeshore or heading deep into the peaceful forest, you’ll have a wonderful time outside when you head out on one of these top trails near Paintsville.
Image via Flickr by daveynin
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