Learn the basics of Winter Tree Identification.  Join KY Division of Forestry Foresters and Rangers, and learn key characteristics that will enable you to identify some of the common tree species at Carter Caves.  During the hike, attendees will be informed of characteristics such as buds, bark, twigs, etc., that are unique to each tree species.  Once the hike is complete, participants will gain insight on ways to identify trees during the leafless dormant season. Hike distance of up to 1.5 miles in hilly terrain.

The beauty at Carter Caves State Park is demonstrated well in this moderate hike displaying natural stone bridges, stairs and the artwork of mother nature. As we hike you will see different ecosystems as we explore what the local animals are finding to eat in their natural habitat. If we have ice and snow be aware the bridges may be slippery. Please dress accordingly and wear appropriate footwear. We welcome the 50+ age group.

Come learn all about the amazing diversity of organisms that inhabit the Carter Caves forest. We will discuss everything from why some trees make good whiskey barrels and others do not to how to use different plants when the zombies come. This hike will be about 1.5 miles in length along the Horn Hollow Trail.

Friends don’t let friends drink instant coffee! Drinking coffee on the trail is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Bring a mug and hike with Goose Bridle Coffee out to a scenic spot and enjoy a cup of fresh-roasted coffee made right on the trail. With camp stoves, we’ll heat some water and use a few different portable brewing devices to make a fresh cup of coffee for everyone. Along the way we’ll discuss ways to dial in your very own trail coffee setup.

This is a hands-on, all-ages workshop presenting the Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics as they apply to winter recreation and caving. Guided by two Leave No Trace Trainers, you will gain new insight on how to minimize your impact on the environment regardless of season or location. This isn't a lecture but a fun, interactive program that will take us into caves and onto trails designed to educate and enlighten! All participants will get souvenirs courtesy of the Trainers.

During this four-mile hike, you will learn to decipher tell-tale surface features that are indicative of a dynamic sub-surface environment. Cave entrances, sinkholes, pits, shelters, springs, arches, and bridges will be featured on this scenic ramble. The hike follows the Three Bridges Trail, with several short off-trail ventures.

A multi-mile hike after a short drive to Cascade Cave. This will be an on-trail/off-trail hike up the valley paralleling the Cascade Cave System (Cascade, Sandy, Jones, Tire Creek, Waterfall caves) demonstrating a variety of impressive karst features including streams, an insurgence, springs, many cave entrances, a karst window, and arches. Time and weather permitting, various sandstone features can be visited as well (caves, springs).

On this hike we will pass many beautiful rock formations, a small cave entrance, Tygarts Creek access, 2 waterfalls(weather permitting), beautiful cliff over hangs and breathtaking views of Tygarts Gorge, You will travel across the natural formation called Devils Backbone and then descending down the hill to the :cabin in the woods", a small cabin that was built in the late 1800's and is now privately owned. Lots of history surrounds this area including moonshining being part of that history. History and stories of the cabin and surrounding area will be a focus on this hike.

Much has been discussed about the significant geology of Carter Caves. Join our residential old broke down caver as he reviews the most recent theories on what makes the Carter Caves area so special and unique. This trip will include a walk through X-Cave and a jaunt into the valley along Cave Branch. One highlight of the trip will include a walk through Carter Caves Natural Bridge, the only natural bridge in Kentucky that supports a paved road.