Close your eyes and point to a spot on a map of Kentucky, and you’re bound to find an amazing trail. The Bluegrass is an incredible place for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, its trails providing challenging and scenic adventures that allow for an up-close experience of our beautiful state. One resplendent region that’s often overlooked by hikers, however, is Berea. The Berea Pinnacles are big and beautiful — and downright magical in the peak of fall foliage! Look out over the hills and farmland and get a true sense of the beauty of our state when you hike the East and West Pinnacle Trail in Berea, Kentucky.
This epic view is what awaits along the East and West Pinnacle Trail in Berea, Kentucky.
Ben Childers/Google Local
Outside Magazine called the Pinnacle Hike the best in Kentucky in 2019; and indeed, this trek truly is extraordinary in every way.
ATCrossland/Flickr
To get to these overlooks, however, you’re going to need to lace up your hiking boots and set out on a 6.6-mile journey.
Benjamin Judah/Google Local
This straightforward trek is rated moderate, and traverses some absolutely beautiful Bluegrass forests. The Pinnacles are located within the Berea College Forest, which is one of the oldest managed private forests in the country.
Anthony/Flickr
Native American tribes used to inhabit this land, and archaeologists have found evidence of their lives in this forest, including arrowheads, cave art, and even a series of underground tunnels.
Shawn Smith/Google Local
Be ready for an ascent through the forest, however, as those perfect pinnacle panoramas have to be reached somehow! Grab a hiking stick – it will definitely help!
Adam Tritt/Google Local
The mileage goes by quickly, however, and before you know it, the forest will begin to open up, revealing something truly wondrous.
Anthony/Flickr
You’ll want to stop and soak up these views, which are numerous, in fact. This trail passes six pinnacles and overlooks: East Pinnacle, West Pinnacle, Eagle’s Nest, Buzzard’s Roost, Devil’s Kitchen, and Indian Fort Lookout!
IMCBerea College/Flickr
With wondrous views in all directions, you’ll want to spend some time soaking everything up.
Anthony/Flickr
And if you take this hike in the autumn, prepare to be positively dazzled by a divine display of fall foliage!
Clinton Bowles/Google Local
Have you tackled the East and West Pinnacle Trail in Berea, Kentucky, before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience on this one-of-a-kind trail!
Ben Childers/Google Local
ATCrossland/Flickr
Benjamin Judah/Google Local
Anthony/Flickr
Shawn Smith/Google Local
Adam Tritt/Google Local
IMCBerea College/Flickr
Clinton Bowles/Google Local
For more beautiful hikes around the Bluegrass, check out these seven scenic treks.
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Address: West Pinnacle, 2047 Big Hill Rd, Berea, KY 40403, USA
