Hike Through Bridges And Caves On The 4Cs Trail In Kentucky

If you want to visit one park that epitomizes the Bluegrass State, make it Carter Caves State Resort Park. This Kentucky State Park in Olive Hill is a place of immense beauty and natural splendor; it’s everything that makes Kentucky so unique and special — all in one place. Here you’ll find 33 miles of trails, winding through lush forests, pristine pools, and fascinating geological formations both above and below ground; and on the 4Cs Trail, you’ll get to experience it all in one perfect, 8.6-mile package.

As its moniker indicates, Carter Caves is best known for its unique caverns, but its geological variety includes canyons, natural bridges, arches, sinkholes, and cliffs. Its 33 miles of trails traverse this varied geography, offering Kentucky hikers of all abilities the opportunity to revel in the resplendence of this beautiful natural area.

Kentucky State Parks

While there are numerous short-and-sweet hikes within this Kentucky State Park, the 8.3-mile 4Cs Trail really is one every avid Bluegrass hiker ought to take.

Kentucky State Parks/Facebook

Best known for its two suspension bridges, the 4Cs Trail takes hikers on a fun day trek through all sorts of terrain.

Linda Hughes/AllTrails

From wooden staircases descending into gorges…

Kentucky State Parks/Facebook

…through glorious caverns (and even a bat cave!)…

Kentucky State Parks/Facebook

…to natural rock and wood steps leading through unique rock formations…

Jesse Murnahan/AllTrails

…and stunning spillways dotted with wildflowers, the 4Cs Trail at Carter Caves truly is the most gloriously beautiful day hike in Kentucky!

Carter Caves State Resort Park/Facebook

So the next time you’re looking to lace up your boots for an unforgettable hike through an unforgettable place, you’ll be glad to tackle the 4Cs Trail at this stunning Kentucky State Park!

Carter Caves State Resort Park/Facebook

Have you hiked the 4Cs Trail at Carter Caves before? This 8.6-mile trek really is an accomplishment for your bucket list! Of course, if you’re looking for more of an hour-long jaunt, the Three Bridges Trail at Carter Caves is a perennial favorite.

Kentucky State Parks

Kentucky State Parks/Facebook

Linda Hughes/AllTrails

Jesse Murnahan/AllTrails

Carter Caves State Resort Park/Facebook

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Carter Caves State Resort Park, 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA