Kentucky is home to some of the most fascinating geological formations in the country, from our epic, mammoth-sized caverns to our sweeping, grandiose gorges. The Bluegrass also boasts some of the most spectacular natural arches and rock bridges in the country, each offering a unique and equally wondrous experience. While some, like Natural Bridge State Resort Park’s titular bridge, are well-known, there are many, many more rock formations in Kentucky worthy of your attention. Today’s adventure brings us to Pine Mountain State Resort Park in Pineville, Kentucky, where a hidden rock bridge awaits along the Laurel Cove Trail.
Pine Mountain State Resort Park is truly one of the most beautiful state parks in the Bluegrass. Kentucky’s first state park, Pine Mountain stretches 1,159 acres across mountainous Bell County.
Kentucky State Parks
The hiking at this Kentucky State Park is phenomenal, traversing through the lush forests and massive rock formations for which the Bluegrass is well known.
Kentucky State Parks/Facebook
The park is most known for Chained Rock, a startling rock formation that looks positively mythic in its grandeur. The mile-long Chained Rock Trail provides near-perfect panoramas this peak.
Kentucky State Parks/Facebook
But Chained Rock isn’t the only commanding rock formation in the park… not even close! To discover more marvelous monoliths, simply lace up your shoes and head to the Laurel Cove Trail.
Kentucky State Parks/Facebook
This 2.7-mile trail scales the mountain from top to bottom. The upper trailhead access is located along the lower section of Chained Rock Trail.
Kentucky State Parks
Traversing lush forests filled with flora, fauna, and formations, the Laurel Cove Trail offers an immersive experience in the wilds of South-Central Kentucky.
Jenna Elmore/AllTrails
Be sure to keep a solid footing as you meander this trail, which, while less than three miles long, has an elevation gain of 990 feet and is considered a moderately challenging route. The rock staircases sure are fun, though!
Joe Bellavance/AllTrails
It’s well-worth the effort, however, as the trail leads to a glorious hidden rock bridge known as Powderhorn Arch.
Annette Anthony/AllTrails
This is one of three documented sandstone arches at Pine Mountain, and easily our favorite. The way the light dapples and dances through the surrounding forest gives Powderhorn Arch an almost golden aura!
Kentucky State Parks/Facebook
Once you’ve discovered this hidden rock bridge, you can continue on all the way up to Chained Rock. While this requires some extra mileage, you’ll be so inspired by the natural beauty of this park, you be happy to keep walking!
Amanda Neace/AllTrails
Have you hiked the Laurel Cove Trail at Pine Mountain State Resort Park before? Did you know about this hidden rock bridge in Kentucky? What a wonderful day hike in the Bluegrass State!
Kentucky State Parks
Kentucky State Parks/Facebook
Jenna Elmore/AllTrails
Joe Bellavance/AllTrails
Annette Anthony/AllTrails
Amanda Neace/AllTrails
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Address: Pine Mountain State Resort Park, 1050 State Park Rd, Pineville, KY 40977, USA
