Looking for a long trail that has great scenery, gorgeous waterfalls, stone arches, a moonbow and can be hiked in just a few weeks? Throw in a little southern hospitality and you have Sheltowee Trace, Kentucky’s Long Trail. It’s all described here; and I might even explain what a moonbow is.
I have hiked red river gorge area. It is worth the trip. Lush forest and abundant streams with plenty of rock climbing, cliffs, vistas, etc. Somewhat high tourism traffic at the biggest attractions like natural bridge, but the area is pristine
I've also dipped my toe in the big south fork area and want to go back. Looks like an underrated and overlooked place for hunting and backpacking in rugged, big timber country.
One other little known gem: rafting from Cumberland falls to lake Cumberland presents the best rapids in Kentucky. It is a wild, forested gorge the whole way with van sized rocks jumbled in the river