If you want to get out and escape into nature in Kentucky, it’s not difficult to do. There is very likely a park, preserve, or hiking area near you that allows for a quick stroll or even a strenuous hike. Of course there are also many lesser known places in our state that are a bit more “off the grid.” These take you into the wilderness on paths that may not be as well marked or worn in, but typically have incredible pay offs. This is what you’ll find within the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area. A section of Daniel Boone National Forest, this little known escape into nature in Kentucky has so much to offer those who are seeking a bit of adventure.

Daniel Boone National Forest offers over 706,000 acres of incredible natural beauty in Kentucky.

USDA Some of that land is easy to access, while much of it is remote and most will never see. There are some areas that are ideal for those who want to go off the grid a bit with a more remote trail, but a trail nonetheless. If you’d enjoy an escape into nature, then check out Beaver Creek Wilderness Area in McCreary County.

This area includes almost 5,000 acres of diverse landscape, plantlife, waterfalls, and a few hiking trails.

Photo Courtesy of Brandon Jett The photos of this area speak for themselves. These were taken in winter, a popular time for seasonal waterfalls to pop up all over.

While in the middle of summer you may not see much, winter and early spring offer hidden gems all throughout.

Photo Courtesy of Brandon Jett The Three Forks of Beaver trail does have an actual trailhead where you can begin your adventure. But many of these sights are found by “choosing your own adventure.”

As with the rest of our beautiful state, it’s crucial to treat the land with the utmost respect.

Photo Courtesy of Brandon Jett Afterall, we owe it quite a lot for scenery like this. And as you can see, even in the winter you’ll find greenery that makes you feel like you’ve entered another world.

There are many surprises along the trail and in this area.

Photo Courtesy of Brandon Jett This arch is one of many rock formations and is a fascinating physical representation of our state’s geological past.

A variety of wildlife call Beaver Creek home, including bears.

Photo Courtesy of Brandon Jett This paw print is almost the size of a human hand. Always be aware of your surroundings when hiking in Kentucky.

The Bowman Ridge Trail is another popular path in the area.

Photo Courtesy of Brandon Jett You can see all of the trails within the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area on this map. This is your best resource if you decide to visit and escape into nature in Kentucky in stunning McCreary County.

If an escape into nature in Kentucky is on your radar and you’re up for an adventure, head to the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area. As with all of our parks, preserves, and other designated areas, please be respectful of the land and leave no trace of your visit. And be sure to be on the look out for bears! Did you know about this wilderness area in Kentucky? Have you hiked any of its trails? Let us know in the comments.

USDA

Some of that land is easy to access, while much of it is remote and most will never see. There are some areas that are ideal for those who want to go off the grid a bit with a more remote trail, but a trail nonetheless. If you’d enjoy an escape into nature, then check out Beaver Creek Wilderness Area in McCreary County.

Photo Courtesy of Brandon Jett

The photos of this area speak for themselves. These were taken in winter, a popular time for seasonal waterfalls to pop up all over.

The Three Forks of Beaver trail does have an actual trailhead where you can begin your adventure. But many of these sights are found by “choosing your own adventure.”

Afterall, we owe it quite a lot for scenery like this. And as you can see, even in the winter you’ll find greenery that makes you feel like you’ve entered another world.

This arch is one of many rock formations and is a fascinating physical representation of our state’s geological past.

This paw print is almost the size of a human hand. Always be aware of your surroundings when hiking in Kentucky.

You can see all of the trails within the Beaver Creek Wilderness Area on this map. This is your best resource if you decide to visit and escape into nature in Kentucky in stunning McCreary County.

Special thanks to Brandon Jett for these beautiful photos of the area.

For more information including directions and trail information, visit the Daniel Boone National Forest website.

And for another worthy trip within McCreary County, check out this restored swinging bridge.

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Address: Parkers Lake, KY 42634, USA