Kentucky is known for its abundance of beautiful lakes, with Cumberland being the Houseboat Capital of the World and Dewey Lake our very own crystal-clear oasis. There’s another lake in south-central Kentucky, however, that’s relatively under the radar and absolutely worth visiting. Dale Hollow Lake is a 28,000-acre oasis of azure in Burkesville, Kentucky, that, between its startling beauty and recreation opportunities, is basically the Bluegrass State’s very own Lake Tahoe.
This is Lake Tahoe, an American icon that sits on the state line between California and Nevada, surrounded by the majestic, snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Located at 6,225 feet above sea level, Lake Tahoe is the highest alpine lake in the country and the second deepest, and touted as one of the most beautiful places in the U.S.
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This is not Lake Tahoe, but doesn’t it look like the famed alpine lake?
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This beguiling body of water is Dale Hollow Lake, a 28,000-acre lake that sits right on the state line of Kentucky and Tennessee and is widely considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the region.
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Part of the eponymous Kentucky State Resort Park and surrounded by towering hills and dotted with marinas and cabin getaways, this lake is a worthy destination for a lake retreat in Kentucky.
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Just like its Tahoe counterpart, Dale Hollow Lake is known for its startlingly clear-blue waters. During the summer, you’ll often be able to see your feet while swimming around. If you have an issue with swimming in murky water, you just may fall in love with this scenic lake!
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The lake is beautiful from all angles, especially the vistas afforded from higher vantage points. There are over 15 miles of designated multi-purpose trails at this Kentucky State Park, open for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking – unless otherwise posted.
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Book a night or two at the beautiful resort so you have a home base for your adventures. Dale Hollow Lake might not be Tahoe, but we happen to think it’s even better, because it’s surrounded by the kind of sublime natural scenery you’ll only find in Kentucky.
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Have you visited this Lake Tahoe lookalike in Kentucky? What a marvelous discovery!
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Looking for more only-in-Kentucky wonders? Plan a trip to Kentucky’s Niagara Falls!
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Address: Dale Hollow Lake, United States
