Your Cadiz, Kentucky Hiking Guide

Your Cadiz, Kentucky Hiking Guide

If you want to see the best of Cadiz, Kentucky, you have come to the right place. Our hiker's guide to Cadiz offers information on everything from the best place to camp, top routes to visit and how to stay safe when hiking.

5 Hiking Trails Near Cadiz, Kentucky

Do you love to hike? If so, Cadiz, Kentucky, is the place for you. From the Appalachian Mountains to the Ohio River's shores, there are plenty of places to explore in this beautiful state. When staying at Kentucky Lakes / Prizer Point KOA, here are five best of the best hikes to try near you.

1. Lake to Lake Mountain Bike Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 10 miles

The Lake to Lake Mountain Bike Trail is the perfect mountain bike trail destination for people who love the outdoors. Begin at the Golden Pond Visitor Center at Land Between the Lakes, a beautiful wooded area that runs through Cadiz. From there, venture through the woods and enjoy some of the most beautiful sights in Kentucky as you travel along this exhilarating hiking and biking trail. 

2. Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Length: 11 miles

The Central Hardwoods Scenic Trail is a beautiful, raw trail through Land Between the Lakes and offers multiple-use opportunities. Spanning the Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake area, this path takes you through valleys and ridges, with views of both lakes from the shoreline. You can see wildlife like deer and birds, rolling hills and hardwood forests in varying shades of green.

In spring and summer, wildflowers will brighten up your day with vibrant colors. In fall, you can enjoy the rich reds and yellows of the season, while winter will shower you with raw views of valleys and ridges.

3. Hematite Lake Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Length:  2.2 miles

Hematite Lake Trail is a short but sweet hike that offers a chance to witness waterfowl migration and wildlife and see remnants of the iron ore industry. This beautiful trek will take you around Hematite Lake, through towering oaks and across bridges and boardwalks over the lake and its dam. Stop at one of the many picnic tables where you can enjoy lunch in the shade of towering oaks.

The wildflower-filled trail is one of the most popular trails in the National Recreation Area, so if you are looking for quiet serenity on your hike, this may not be it. However, if you are wanting adventure and are okay with some company, this trail is sure to please!

4. Canal Loop Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Length: 11 miles

Get ready to experience multiple terrains on these hiking trails. The Canal Loop Trail is an excellent hike for the adventurous. The track is not just one loop, but multiple loops you can explore depending on how long and strenuous you want your excursion to be. The trail offers gorgeous views of Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley and the canal itself.

5. Honker Lake Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length:  4.5 miles

When looking for a hike that is a little bit different, try the Honker Lake Trail. This loop trail takes you on a journey through a bottom-land forest, lake shores and lake views. Hikers can see lotus flowers growing in the water and wildlife, including turtles, ducks, beavers, osprey, bear and deer.

If you want to take it easy on your feet but still get a view of the lake, you can rent canoes or kayaks at the Woodlands Nature Station.

7 Essential Kentucky Hiking Tips to Know

Hiking in Kentucky is a great way to get in touch with nature and see some of the state's most beautiful sights. From mountains and valleys to lakes and rivers, hiking trails throughout Kentucky can take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. Before you journey the walking trails near you, ensure you know these essential tips:

  1. Pack for the weather: Always wear sunscreen and bug spray, especially if you will be outdoors during the summer months. Bring snow boots and warm clothing in the winter — you never know when you might run into some unexpected snow!
  2. Carry safety basics: When hiking, you should always carry the essentials, such as water, food and a first aid kit. For navigational purposes, we also recommend packing a map or GPS device with you and a flashlight in case it gets dark.
  3. Leave no trace: Protect the environment and the wildlife by carrying out what you carry in, packing out trash and staying on established trails so as not to disturb fragile ecosystems or animals' habitats.
  4. Let people know your route: Whether you are hiking in a group or alone, let someone know your location and estimated return time.
  5. Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water with you on your hike and drink it regularly throughout the day.
  6. Give wildlife space: Keep your distance if you spot a bear or another large animal. If you bring your furry friend along, keep them on a leash to reduce risks. Generally, stay away from wildlife altogether and enjoy the scenery from afar.
  7. Stay on marked paths: Hiking trails are marked with markers so that you know where you are going. If you are not sure about your route, ask a local for directions or check online for maps of the area before you go.

Recover After Your Hike at Kentucky Lakes / Prizer Point KOA

Whether you prefer to sleep under glittering stars in a Tent Site, spend the night in a Deluxe Cabin or kick back in an RV Site, Kentucky Lakes / Prizer Point KOA offers a variety of accommodations to match your adventure style.

At Kentucky Lakes / Prizer Point KOA, you can enjoy the waterfront marina and easy access to the lake for swimming, fishing and boating. With premium amenities like the mining sluice, The Pier Floating Restaurant, Camp Store and water park, you will have all your needs met while enjoying an incredible outdoor experience at our campground. Choose from a selection of sites and make your reservation today!

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