Bike The Kentucky Wildlands → A Guide To Eastern Kentucky Bike Trails

Whether you’re riding solo, with a cycling crew or the whole family, you’ll find pedaling adventures at every turn on Kentucky bike trails.

Pedal your way through the hilltops, small towns and beautiful surrounding nature of The Kentucky Wildlands. Mountain bike through the majestic Daniel Boone National Forest for a more daring excursion. Ride alongside cascading rivers and across state resort parks for a relaxing outing. Take in awe-inspiring vistas as you ride through the Appalachian mountaintops on two wheels.

Trek The Daniel Boone National Forest

Enjoy more than 600 miles of connected mountain biking trails throughout the Daniel Boone National Forest. Featuring hundreds of indigenous plant species and abundant wildlife, you’ll feel one with nature as you pedal your way through the forest’s many trails and bicycling routes. Most trails are multi-use for recreation, with easy access points for rides of any length.

With miles of gravel or dirt roads, finding a bike trail suitable for your riding experience will be trouble-free in the first-ever trail town in Eastern Kentucky. Nestled within the forest, find Livingston Trail Town, boasting numerous mountain bike trails and winding roads of pavement within the historic town surrounded by nature. The 282-mile Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, in particular, remains a popular one among cyclers and adventurers alike. Cross bridges and zip down pathways while looking out at the scenic countryside.

For a real challenge, mountain bike the Lakeview Ridge Trail. This uphill route will really test your mettle before its rapid descent. Whatever your biking pleasure, Daniel Boone National Forest has something for you.

Coast Through Nature

The 20-mile Sugarcamp Mountain Trail System offers sweeping views as you peddle over awe-inspiring mountaintops. Ride along clean-water lakes and rivers on designated trail systems, such as the Cave Run Lake Trail. Take in the sights while coasting through state parks like Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Kentucky’s longest rail trail, the 18-mile Dawkins Line Rail Trail near Paintsville, features 24 railroad trestles, as well as the Gun Creek tunnel.

Cycle The Town of Trails

Journey into the trail town of London for an epic biking experience with more than 300 miles of bike routes. Wedged between Daniel Boone National Forest and Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park, London is designated the “Cycling Capital of Kentucky” and has increasingly gained popularity for both road cycling and mountain biking.

Take part in one of the yearly events, such as the RedBud Ride hosted every spring. Cruise through horse country as you take in all the natural beauty around you. If you’re seeking more adventure, shred up some half-pipes at London-Laurel Wellness Park. With so many trails to explore for all levels, this cycling town is great for the whole family.

Journey Down Gravel Roads

Calling all gravel cyclists! Ride through 60 miles of back roads, gravel roads, hills, creeks and farmland in Lick Falls. Clack Mountain Road is a challenging doubletrack perfect for experienced gravel riders. In the Morehead and Cave Run Lake area, the Limestone Loop includes three miles of the Sheltowee Trail and a new singletrack section. For quality gravel roads, head on over to Red River Gorge. Perfect for winter riding, you can enjoy the trails of Indian Creek Road and Spaas Creek Road.

Ride Around Laurel Lake

Laurel Lake Trail is widely considered one of the best Kentucky bike trails. This local-favorite trail is perfect for mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels.

Twist around the Laurel River Lake's shore as you dart throughout the forest. Catch glimpses of awe-striking views, from towering cliffs and stone arches to a majestic waterfall. With little to no rocks or roots, this trail offers a smooth biking experience that you can take at your own pace. Slowly cruise along to appreciate the surrounding views and nature, or pedal fast for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Kentucky Wildlands Visitor Centers

As you begin to explore the bicycling routes, trail towns and mountain biking paths of The Kentucky Wildlands, be sure to stop in at the local visitor centers for more information on outdoor recreation, safety precautions, brochure guides and maps of the trail systems and parklands. Happy trails!

Daniel Boone National Forest Gladie Visitor Center at 3451 Sky Bridge Road/KY Route 715 in Stanton, KY (606) 663-8100.

Livingston Trail Town Visitor Center at S. Wilderness Rd. in Livingston, KY (606) 453-2710.

London-Laurel County Tourism Visitor's Center at 140 Faith Assembly Church Rd. in London, KY (606) 878-6900.

Cave Run Lake Information Center at 2375 KY-801 in Morehead, KY (606) 784-5624.

Cumberland Falls Visitor’s Center on Cumberland Falls Rd. in Williamsburg, KY (606) 528-4121.

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