Outbound Collective logo

Kentucky

Looking for the best backpacking in Kentucky? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Kentucky. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Backpacking Spots in and near Kentucky

  • Slade, Kentucky

    Hike the Indian Staircase Loop and Cloudsplitter

    5.0
    10 mi
    Starting at the Bison Way Trailhead #210. You'll take this until you come to the intersection of the Sheltowee Trace Trail #100. Go left. You're going to turn right on the unmarked trail just past the sign that says stay on trail. This is quite the incline. Keeping going until you get to the base...
    Read more
  • Stanton, Kentucky

    Hike the Auxier Ridge Trail, KY

    5.0
    4 mi / 1300 ft gain
    This can be done as a quick hike, or as an overnighter so you can catch both sunset and sunrise.  Park at the Auxier Ridge Trailhead and take the Auxier Ridge Trail (#204).  Do NOT take the branch on the left for the Courthouse Rock Trail (#202), which you will see after about 1 mile.  In about 2...
    Read more
  • Grand Rivers, Kentucky

    Backpack the North - South National Scenic Trail

    59 mi / 3362 ft gain
    For 59 miles, the North-South National Scenic Trail winds up and down wooded hollows as you make your way along the length of Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area. A National Recreational Trail, the North-South has a great mix of coastal views of Kentucky Lake (one of the largest artif...
    Read more