Both experienced hikers and casual day-trippers flock to the Daniel Boone National Forest to take advantage of its rugged terrain, scenic views, and natural beauty.
It’s been years since Daniel Boone trekked through the forest that would later be named after him, but much of the natural terrain and wildlife that he encountered still exist to this day. A diverse range of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians can be found in the forest, including the majestic bald eagle and osprey. Animals commonly seen in the forest include white-tailed deer, a variety of squirrels, red and gray foxes, quail, rabbits, mink, muskrats, and raccoons.
With more than 600 miles of developed trails, Daniel Boone National Forest offers ample opportunities for visitors of all skill levels and interests. The Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail runs 254 miles from the forest's northern tip through canyons, over mountaintops, along river and lakes, and past many cliffs.
Developed recreational areas can be found along the trail, giving hikers the option of camping in the forest with the convenience of modern facilities. This trail also links to other trail systems in what is known as the Red River Gorge Geological Area, Cave Run Lake, Cumberland Falls State Park, Laurel River Lake, and Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.
Another popular hike is the Natural Arch Trail, which is located in the Somerset District and features a 60 by 100-foot sandstone opening. For peaceful water vistas, you might be interested in the Nathan McClure Trail, which takes hikers on a scenic walk along Lake Cumberland. These are just a few of the numerous trails you can choose from in the Red River Gorge.
Riding a bicycle along State Highways 77 and 715, which pass through the Red River Gorge Geological Area, provides one of the best ways to view this portion of the forest. The Red River Gorge Geological Area is unique in that it sits at the crossroads of the northern and southern ecosystems.
Bikers can also follow the Sheltowe Trace from Hwy 192 to Laurel Lake Dam, which is a nine-mile trip one-way. Some off-road trails include the Ned Branch Trail and Lakeside South Loop. These trails, when combined with the Twin Branch Trail, make up a seven-mile loop. The trail goes through the forest and features some scenic stretches along the cliff-line. Off-road trails on logging roads aren’t promoted by the Daniel Boone National Forest but do offer some extreme riding for experienced cyclists.
Driving through Daniel Boone National Forest provides another incredible way to see the forest. Zilpo Road runs nine miles through the forest near Cave Run Lake and the Zilpo Recreation Area. The Clear Creek Recreation Area and Pioneer Weapons Hunting Area are popular stops along the route.
Another drive along US Route 27 from Somerset to Stearns offers views of Lake Cumberland and even a picnic are at the state’s only island park located at General Burnside State Park. Once in Stearns, Big South Fork Scenic Railway offers visitors an 11-mile trek down an old railway. There’s even a recreated mining town that looks like it came right out of the 1930s.
Daniel Boone National Forest offers a wide range of lodging accommodations.
Camping Options in Daniel Boone National Forest
If you’re in the mood to “rough it” a bit, Whittleton Campground in Natural Bridge State Resort Park has a number of primitive tent sites available. For those who prefer to camp without sleeping on the ground, then Middle Fork Campground (also in Natural Bridge State Park) has a few dozen pull-through camping sites with electrical hookups so you can live comfortably in your RV or pull-behind camper.
Rent a Cabin in Daniel Boone National Forest
The national forest has a variety of private cabins that you can rent. However, our favorites are the ones right here at Cliffview. From our 16-bedroom lodge to our 11-bedroom retreat, our rental cabins are great for groups of all sizes. We also rent the lodge by the room.
