One of the best things about a good hiking trail is the variety of foliage you can experience, along with the brilliant color that comes along with it. In the wintertime, many trails lose this appeal, although they are still relaxing places to get some fresh air. But if you’re looking for a hiking spot in Kentucky that has beautiful green hues all year long, check out the Hemlock Garden Trail and other nearby paths around Pine Mountain State Resort Park. These trails are stunning throughout the year and no matter the season, never lose their appeal.
Pine Mountain State Resort Park is a beloved destination in southeastern Kentucky. The park is known for its charming lodge, scenic overlooks, and fascinating history, as well as the natural beauty of its hiking spots.
Facebook/Pine Mountain State Resort Park
Perhaps the best-known hiking spot on Pine Mountain is Chained Rock. While this is an interesting place with a great story and even better views, there are many other enchanting places to check out.
Facebook/Pine Mountain State Resort Park
The Hemlock Garden Trail is a short, half-mile path that takes you through a mesmerizing section of the park. You begin by descending into a ravine, where you’ll feel as if you’ve entered another world.
Flickr/James Carnes
Due to the type of foliage along the trail, you’ll see plenty of greenery on the path all year long. The 300-year-old old-growth Hemlock trees are also unique sights to see.
Flickr/James Carnes
Along this trail, you’ll come across a Civilian Conservation Corps shelter, built in the 1930s. The view below shows what the trail looks like from inside, and it’s a must-see spot to experience when hiking this trail.
Facebook/Kentucky State Parks
All of Pine Mountain State Resort Park’s trails are enticing, even in the winter. Along with the greenery, you’ll find a variety of rock formations and scenic overlooks.
Facebook/Pine Mountain State Resort Park
While you’re in the area, also visit Kentucky Ridge State Forest, which is adjacent to the state park. This forest also has green foliage all year long, as shown in the beautiful photo below.
Photo Courtesy of Maeve / @mcdraper
As Kentucky’s first state park, Pine Mountain is truly one-of-a-kind. No matter the time of year, visit this hiking spot for unforgettable views, historic landmarks, and unexpected green foliage - even in the dead of winter.
Photo Courtesy of Jamie Barnes
These hiking spots are filled with natural beauty, stunning views, and green landscapes, no matter what time of year you visit. Have you hiked the trails around Pine Mountain? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Facebook/Pine Mountain State Resort Park
Flickr/James Carnes
Facebook/Kentucky State Parks
Photo Courtesy of Maeve / @mcdraper
Photo Courtesy of Jamie Barnes
For more information on the Hemlock Garden Trail, as well as all of the other features of Pine Mountain State Resort Park, visit its website here.
And for more short, but beautiful trails in Kentucky to try any time of year, check out our previous article here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
