With many small towns in our state, there are plenty of spots that could be considered “in the middle of nowhere.” Of course some of these places don’t have much to offer to those who don’t live there, but then others are very much worth the journey. If you’re looking for a quiet place where you can hike, relax, get out on the water, and even grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant, then head to Olive Hill. This small Kentucky town is a lovely spot in the eastern half of our state and despite being in the middle of nowhere, it’s definitely worth the journey.
Olive Hill is a small Kentucky town located east of Lexington, toward the West Virginia border.
Facebook/Olive Hill Trail Town As one of many designated Trail Towns in Kentucky, it has a lot to offer those who love the outdoors. It has that “middle of nowhere” appeal, but with enough activity to warrant a visit.
Olive Hill is probably best known for Carter Caves State Resort Park.
Facebook/Carter Caves State Resort Park Here you can tour an incredible cave system and there are a variety of options. Go on an easy walking tour that’s appropriate for all ages, or try something more adventurous as you head underground.
Beneath the ground of Olive Hill is an amazing place to explore, but the above ground trails are just as scenic.
Photo Courtesy of Amy Hamant / @cloudwall The trails throughout the park offer swinging bridges, rock formations, bodies of water and more. Many believe this park to be one of the best in Kentucky.
Carter Caves State Resort Park also has a lodge that includes a delicious restaurant.
Facebook/Carter Caves State Resort Park Grab a bite to eat here and consider calling the lodge or campground home base during your stay. The park hosts a wide variety of unique events throughout the year, so be sure to take a look at those, as well.
A Trail Town means that the city offers a variety of trails, including those that can be traversed by boat, bike, or even horse.
Facebook/Olive Hill Trail Town Olive Hill has it all and there are a few scenic spots throughout the town that are perfect for kayaking in Kentucky. Visit the town’s Trail Town information board and follow along on the Facebook page linked below for more trail information.
Olive Hill is a quintessential small town in Kentucky with one-of-a-kind events held throughout the year.
Facebook/Olive Hill Trail Town If you visit in September and the Heritage Trail Ride is taking place, expect to find people on horse back all over the streets and trails.
And with so much activity and adventure, you’ll need another local place to dine.
Facebook/Walker Family Restaurant Definitely check out Walker’s Family restaurant for any meal of the day, seven days a week. They have excellent comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere that make it a must-try hidden gem. Learn more about this family restaurant here.
Olive Hill is a small Kentucky town that is a designated Trail Town, offers one of the best parks in the state, and has a few charming local spots that make it worth the journey to visit. Are you from this area in Eastern Kentucky? Have you visited Olive Hill? Let us know in the comments!
Facebook/Olive Hill Trail Town
As one of many designated Trail Towns in Kentucky, it has a lot to offer those who love the outdoors. It has that “middle of nowhere” appeal, but with enough activity to warrant a visit.
Facebook/Carter Caves State Resort Park
Here you can tour an incredible cave system and there are a variety of options. Go on an easy walking tour that’s appropriate for all ages, or try something more adventurous as you head underground.
Photo Courtesy of Amy Hamant / @cloudwall
The trails throughout the park offer swinging bridges, rock formations, bodies of water and more. Many believe this park to be one of the best in Kentucky.
Grab a bite to eat here and consider calling the lodge or campground home base during your stay. The park hosts a wide variety of unique events throughout the year, so be sure to take a look at those, as well.
Olive Hill has it all and there are a few scenic spots throughout the town that are perfect for kayaking in Kentucky. Visit the town’s Trail Town information board and follow along on the Facebook page linked below for more trail information.
If you visit in September and the Heritage Trail Ride is taking place, expect to find people on horse back all over the streets and trails.
Facebook/Walker Family Restaurant
Definitely check out Walker’s Family restaurant for any meal of the day, seven days a week. They have excellent comfort food and a welcoming atmosphere that make it a must-try hidden gem. Learn more about this family restaurant here.
For more information on Olive Hill as a Trail Town, follow along here.
Carter Caves State Resort Park Address: 344 Caveland Drive, Olive Hill, KY 41164
And for more on the park and all it has to offer, check out our previous article here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
