Outdoor exploration season is here, folks. These Appalachian mountains are breathing, blooming and well on their way to growing into that lush, green forest everyone loves to explore. When you visit Morehead-Rowan County, you’re one step closer to adventure.
Morehead, an official Kentucky Trail Town, is an ideal destination for outdoor lovers of all kinds. Nestled in the Daniel Boone National Forest, with Cave Run Lake nearby, outdoor adventures can be found on and off the water. Morehead-Rowan County is home to more than 100 miles of multi-use trails, making it the perfect place to experience the beauty of northeastern Kentucky on foot, bike or horseback.
Warm up with an uphill trek to Lockegee Rock and take in the beautiful, scenic view. Grab your pack or walking stick and head to the Sheltowee Trace northern terminus for a day-hike with Mother Nature. Head out to Cave Run or stroll along the Eagle Lake Loop Trail and enjoy where land meets the waves. Regardless of preference or skill level, spring is the best time to start your journey in Morehead-Rowan County.
Local hikers love Morehead because a trail is always close by. The Sheltowee Trace NRT runs right down Main Street!
“By far my favorite thing about Morehead, and hardly any other community has it, is you literally wake up, you open your door, and you are in the forest,” said Jordan, a local avid hiker.
Fishing, water sports and days at the lake are part of the Morehead-Rowan County experience as well. The largest in northeastern Kentucky, Cave Run Lake offers more than 8,000 acres of open water, 200 miles of shoreline and more than 150 species of fish to catch. This fisherman’s paradise boasts a few challenging fish like the notorious musky, but it is also home to the largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, black crappie and white crappie. Chances are you’ll reel in something you want to take home after a day on the water.
Cave Run Lake and the adjoining Licking River provide paddle boating and kayaking opportunities year-round. Daily pontoon or houseboat rentals make it easy for friends and families to set out for adventures of all kinds. Whether you’re interested in fast-paced fun like boating and jet-skiing or simply soaking up the sun, there’s always a good time waiting for you beyond the shoreline.
Here, you can wake up, open your door and walk into the forest. Follow the sound of the waves to the lake. Spend a day or two completely immersed in the beautiful mountains and lakes here in the Daniel Boone National Forest, the gateway to Eastern Kentucky.
Step into your next adventure in Morehead-Rowan County today.
