Kentucky Trails

When looking for prime offroad trails in the Red River Gorge Area, look no further than Spaas Creek. It is one of the best offroad trails within the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway for a good reason - it is satisfying! To satisfy your sense of adventure, it is just tough enough with moderate obstacles to challenge and excite new drivers and provide interest for seasoned drivers. Overlanders love it because it is one of the few trails on the Byway that has dispersed and rustic camping. The wooded wet scenery, which presents new inspiring details around every corner, will captivate even the most cynical in your group. You can't help feeling satisfied after driving Spaas Creek.

It starts with the name - Punkin Hollow in one county and Pumpkin Hollow in another. Either way you spell it, the Hollow is the quintessential offroad experience of the Red River Gorge region and the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. It combines the best features of wheeling in the area without being too stressful and intense. The experience isn't a "gimme" either. You are going to have to earn your hero shots. Slick rocky climbs through a thick dark green forest will give way to the crossing of the Right Fork Cane Creek. Of all the creek crossings on the Byway, this one is special. You will certainly want your camera crew to get the hero shot of you driving the crossing. Get your wheeling buddies and make it an epic trip by combining Pumpkin Hollow with Spaas Creek.

Marbleyard is a scenic route located in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Throughout the forest, the trail passes through a diverse array of flora and fauna, including various tree species like oak, hickory, and maple. Whitetail deer, wild turkey, and various bird species are commonly seen within the forest. Two unique features of this trail are the Cottage Furnace and Tucker Cave, which are both reachable by just a short hike. Despite its easy nature, this trail will surely please any level of adventurer.

Mountain Springs Road will flat-out punch you in the gut while smiling and tell you you are having a great time. And you will believe it. At least you will want to believe it. Arguably the most challenging trail of the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. This road is no joke. Like most situations in life, it starts relatively innocent, then quickly morphs into a 3-hour adventure with you and your machine against the trail. Bring your buddies for backup and all the great stories you can share for the years to come.

Located a short drive from Stanton, Indian Creek Road is a popular local destination for great fishing, swimming, and camping. This scenic drive along the banks of the peaceful, shaded, winding creek is the ideal place to sit back and relax, whether for a day, a weekend, or an extended vacation. Indian Creek Road is one of the few roads in the area with dispersed camping. The camping spots fill fast on weekends.

New Virginia Ridge is an alternate road following the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. It is one of the more calm and subdued backcountry drives in the entire network. Tall hardwoods line the gentle dirt road while you wind down, around, and past flowing tributaries and Hawk Branch. If you roll the windows down or take the top off, you can hear the crystal clear water flowing as you drive by. Towards the end, the trail runs along the edge of Big Sinking Creek, where structures remain from oil and gas booms that went bust before it reaches Bald Rock Fork. It is a perfect addition when driving the Byway.

Driving into a dark hollow for the first time always brings a bit of a thrill and excitement. Johnson Hollow Road is no different, with the thrill and excitement coming in the form of being greeted by an old house with its own personality. When you drive by the mysterious old house, you can't help but wonder what it was like decades ago, perhaps with a cheerful, rosy-cheeked grandmotherly figure waving to you as you drive by. But then the present moment sets in, and all you see are the endlessly dark windows and the feeling you are being watched by something or someone within the decaying structure. Johnson Hollow is an excellent add-on or a fun bypass to Wayne Benson Road when driving the DBBB.

Fixer-Leeco Road is a perfect beginner trail along the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. Long water crossings through beaver areas are a memory-making experience and get your proverbial tires wet when learning how to drive offroad. Additionally, Fixer-Leeco marks the beginning of a long stretch of dirt road when you combine it with Fixer Road and either Cave Fork Road or New Virginia Road.

Cold Iron Fork Road on the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway can be described as "a thorn among the roses." The thorn is one gnarley rock obstacle, and the roses are literally wild roses found abundantly on the trail. Combine that with driving under an impressive tree canopy of beech, sugar maple, oak, hemlock, hickory, and white pines to round out the whole offroad experience. Have the winch ready, and bring a camera!

Ross Creek Off-Road Trail is a thrilling and rugged adventure nestled within the picturesque Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky. This offroad trail, also known as Pistol Creek by the locals, offers adrenaline-pumping experiences for off-roading enthusiasts and nature seekers alike. As you navigate the challenging terrain of Ross Creek Trail, you'll be captivated by the stunning forest scenery and towering trees. This trail is perfect for those seeking a thrilling offroad excursion, with its mud pits, rocky sections, and creek crossings that test both the skill and endurance of drivers. For an unforgettable offroad adventure in the heart of the Daniel Boone National Forest, Ross Creek is an absolute must.

Touted as tough and non-negotiable, Old Fincastle Road is among the few rock-crawling offroad trails when driving the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. It's one you don't want to skip. The trail has interesting and exciting features for drivers and passengers alike, from the challenging rock obstacles to a fun, scenic water crossing of Walker Creek. If you are new to rock crawling, this one will pucker you up just enough to inspire you to find more rock crawling trails.

Wayne Benson Road is worth adding to your list of DBBB trails. Mushy, mucky, and muddy Wayne Benson Road is an actual trail that provides the sense of adventure you seek. When all you hear are the birds chirping and the sound of sticky mud under your tires, you will feel remote, alone, and insulated from mundane daily life. As an add-on in this area of the DBBB, you can continue your offroad experience by taking on Johnson Hollow after completing this trail.

Many roads and offroad trails along the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway are named after landscape features, such as ridges, creeks, or forks. Others are named based on what towns they connect, such as Fixer-Leeco. Then you have the roads named after the town or settlement itself. That is the case with Fixer Road. Let's be clear. Fixer is not named in adoration an attorney who works for corrupt politicians, but rather for a man who was irritated with the U.S. Post Office. Folklore has it that a post office was established in the community in 1917. After submitting several rejected entries to postal authorities, an irritated customer declared that he was done suggesting place names. If the post office didn't like it, they could "fix 'er" themselves. If you are driving the DBBB, Fixer Road takes you through historical oil and gas activity and old homesteads while providing views of the Big Sinking Creek.

Cave Fork Road is the tale of two stories. The first story is that you drive through two creek crossings for almost 3/4 of a mile and can take in the lush forest around you. The other side of the story is that you can witness Kentucky's oil and gas history for the remainder of the road as you drive through an old oil boom area that helped America win World War 1. If you are driving the DBBB, there are other options to reach pavement, such as Bald Rock Fork Road or New Virginia Road.

S-tree is a captivating destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Located in the heart of Kentucky's rolling hills, this enchanting region offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors to the S-tree area can immerse themselves in the lush greenery of the forest, exploring a network of picturesque hiking and driving trails that wind through towering trees and vibrant wildflowers. Whether it's a peaceful hike, a scenic picnic, or simply basking in the serenity of nature, S-tree is a hidden gem within the Daniel Boone National Forest, inviting visitors to unwind and reconnect with the natural world.

Brushy North Fork Road is a true delight among the offroad trails that make up the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. Your attention is immediately captured by a rock obstacle to begin the trail before it gives way to water crossings that are several vehicle lengths long. Most of the water comes from the several ponds you pass by, where at points, they overflow into the road. Adding to the delight factor, the ponds provide clear views of the skies above, making this trail somewhat different than most in the area as copious amounts of sunlight shines in the lower sections, which makes you want to roll the windows down or take the top off to enjoy the experience in its entirety.

Wild Dog Creek Road is a captivating route nestled within the enchanting beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest. This scenic road winds its way through the forested landscapes, offering an immersive experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As you traverse Wild Dog Creek Road, you'll be greeted by towering trees, peaceful creeks, and an abundance of wildlife. Whether you're seeking a peaceful drive or stringing together an adventure-filled route, be sure to check out Wild Dog Creek.

Part of the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway, Bald Rock Fork is a remote and quiet road sure to pique your adventurous spirit. This road starts where Fixer Road ends along the edge of the Big Sinking Creek, which they call sinking because water disappears or sinks into limestone deposits, making the creek look dry as the water runs underground. The trail eventually turns to follow its namesake, Bald Rock Fork. With impressive creek views and crossings, the road enters the Pendergrass Murray Recreation Preserve, with world-class rock climbing and fantastic hiking opportunities.

If Ballard Branch/Lone Oak is your first set of trails or roads when doing the entire Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway, don't let its schizophrenic personality fool you that the DBBB as a whole is going to be just like this one. It won't. If you are already on your way and have driven several other trails, you will be glad this one goes quickly.

Towering above you, sheer cliff walls are lined at the bottom with laurels that run alongside the road as you descend into the hollow that Hell Creek trickles across. While short and quick, this scenic and gentle road is a no-brainer to add to your list of roads you want to drive the DBBB. It is the perfect add-on when tackling the infamous Old Fincastle Road.

Barnes Buck Road in the Daniel Boone National Forest is an exhilarating offroad destination that promises adrenaline-fueled fun for adventurous enthusiasts. This rugged trail showcases the perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling challenges. One of the notable features that set Barnes Buck apart is its numerous mud pits, which test the mettle of both drivers and their vehicles. As you navigate through this offroad playground, you'll encounter multiple obstacles and mud-bogging opportunities. The picturesque surroundings of the forest, with its towering trees, only add to the excitement and make Barnes Buck Road an unforgettable experience. If you're seeking a thrilling offroad adventure complete with mud-slinging action, Barnes Buck Road is a must-visit destination.

The muddy Rader Ridge Road on the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway is an exhilarating and challenging offroad experience that will test the skills of even the most seasoned adventurers. Located within the rugged beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest, this road is known for its treacherous conditions, particularly during wet weather. As drivers maneuver through the deep mud and slippery terrain, they face thrilling obstacles that demand expert navigation and a capable vehicle. If you're seeking an adrenaline-fueled offroad adventure, tackling the muddy Rader Ridge Road on the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway is an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the raw beauty of nature.

Climbing 700 feet through the Daniel Boone National Forest, Wolf Knob is an easy route of maintained gravel that dead ends at almost 1,800 feet. A few dispersed campsites are among the lush Kentucky vegetation, with the prime campsite right underneath a seemingly out-of-place patch of rocks. If peace and quiet are what you are after, this trail might just fit the bill.

Patrick Cemetery Road is a necessary evil when driving the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway. It is not very exciting compared to other roads along the DBBB, but it's not pavement either. Drive this road for one reason - to say that you completed every road on the DBBB!

The Herdes Springs 4x4 Trail on the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway is a thrilling adventure for offroad enthusiasts. Located amidst the rugged beauty of Kentucky's wilderness, this trail offers a challenging and exhilarating experience for those passionate about four-wheeling. Drivers navigating the trail encounter obstacles, including steep inclines and declines, rocky terrain, and muddy sections, testing their driving skills and vehicle capabilities. Towering trees surround the trail as you wind down to Herdes Creek. For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping offroad adventure in the heart of nature, the Herdes Springs 4x4 trail is an absolute must-visit.

Rooks Branch is a relatively flat trail winding through the Daniel Boone National Forest. There were no obstacles along its 2.8-mile length. However, you get to cross a little creek with a firm but rocky bottom. Unfortunately, there were no suitable camping locations to be seen.

The sticky mud and a long descent into the hollow will brighten your eyes and widen your smile. Brushy 1085, part of the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway, starts 4.5 miles of actual offroad trail when you combine it with its neighbor, Brushy Fork North Road. The forest envelopes you with direct sunshine, quickly losing its shine as you drop into the hollow. As you continue this short trail, photo opportunities unveil themselves to you and your wheeling mates. After completing this trail, photos of water crossings, a calming unnamed tributary, and flexy obstacles will surely be in your collection.

Turkey Foot is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Located in the rugged mountains of eastern Kentucky, this pristine region boasts breathtaking landscapes, dense forests, and sparkling waterways that beckon visitors to explore. The trail meanders calmly through rich biodiversity and abundant wildlife. Turkey Foot is a haven for nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the natural wonders of the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Bacon Creek Road, within Land Between the Lakes, leads to a hiking trail that offers a great view of and access to Lake Barkley. However, this road is subject to closure during heavy storms. The park encourages visitors to review the official Land Between the Lakes Alerts prior to visiting for temporary trail and road closures. Campers can camp in just about any area within the park. But please familiarize yourself with LBL's camping costs and policies. There is no cost to drive this trail. Camping Permits are $20 for those over 18. Anyone under 18 does not need a permit.

Land Between the Lakes is a 40-mile long peninsula that offers hiking and horse trails, 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline, mountain biking, 400+ miles of scenic roads, and numerous campsites. If you're one of the 1.5 million people who visit Land Between the Lakes every year, make Bacon Creek Road a part of your day.

Sand Lick is a maintained gravel road taking you from the town of Foxtow toward Highway 421 just north of Kckee. There are no obstacles along its 4-mile length, making it great for anyone looking to get out and spend time in nature. No camping was observed along the trail.

Dog Divide is a 5.3-mile long trail winding through the Daniel Boone National Forest in southern Kentucky. It is well-maintained gravel with nothing in the way of obstacles. A rock arch greets you alongside the trail with a small pullout to stop and enjoy this rare, unique feature. No camping was observed along this trail.

Cold Hill is a gravel-based through trail with no obstacles or notable points along its 1.9-mile length. This is an excellent trail to give you access to many others in the area. Camping was not observed anywhere along the trail.

Lick Branch is a 2.5-mile long spur with minimal elevation gain. There are no obstacles along its maintained gravel surface, making it an excellent trail for beginners to stretch their legs in the Daniel Boone National Forest. There were no camping options spotted along this trail.

Miller Fork is an access road leading to the Miller Fork Recreational Preserve parking lot. Acquired in 2013 by the Red River Gorge Climber's Coalition, this 309-acre MFRP offers spectacular rock climbing with nearly 30 crags and over 500 routes. The road to the parking lot is a gentle drive along Hell's Creek, down a gravel road with occasional potholes and slight dips that can often be filled with several inches of water. Parking can be tight on busy weekends, so be sure to plan accordingly. There is one pull-off with a fire ring along the road, but the camping legality of that spot is unknown, as the road travels entirely through privately owned property. Thus, users should assume camping is not allowed.

Leatherwood Fork is a dead-end spur road off Indian Creek Road that follows Indian Creek for less than a mile. The road surface is hard, compact gravel, and suitable for any vehicle. The creekside views along Leatherwood Fork are incredibly scenic, and the birds are constantly chirping in the area, giving it a very peaceful vibe.

There are several campsites along the road. All require leaving your vehicle on the road and hiking a short distance to the campsite. This is not a good road for camper trailers. The road ends abruptly with no good turnarounds. Thus, trailers would have to back up long distances.