Pilot Knob - Clay City, KY
Pilot Knob Dog-Friendly Hiking in Clay City, Kentucky
If you’re searching for a pet-friendly hiking trail near Clay City, Kentucky, Pilot Knob is a rewarding destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and their four-legged friends. Known for its moderate to strenuous trail, the park features a 1.2-mile hike to the knob with about a 700–1,150 foot elevation gain, making it an excellent choice for dog owners looking for a more challenging walk. The trails are well-marked, regularly maintained, and provide amazing scenic views at the summit — making every step worth the effort.
While not a traditional fenced dog park, Pilot Knob is dog-friendly for leashed pets and offers plenty of natural stops for rest along the way. Small parking is available, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends or beautiful fall days. Be mindful that ticks are present in the warmer months, so bring insect repellent for you and your pets. Owners praise the trail for its clarity, safety, and overall maintenance, making it a top choice for dog-friendly hiking in Clay City.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Pilot Knob offers mapped and well-marked hiking trails with scenic views.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a small parking area onsite. Arrive early, especially on busy days, as spots are limited.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, reviews mention that the paths are clear and well maintained.
- Are ticks or other pests common in the area? Yes, visitors report finding ticks, so insect repellent is recommended.
- How challenging is the trail? The hike is considered moderate to strenuous, with a significant uphill climb.
- Is Pilot Knob dog-friendly? Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails as long as they are kept on a leash.
Reviews
great hike, moderate to hard. 1,150ft of elevation gain within the first 30 minutes.
There are a couple extra loops that you can take aside from the main trail to the knob. Ticks where found, use plenty of insect repellent.
great hike, moderate to hard. 1,150ft of elevation gain within the first 30 minutes.
There are a couple extra loops that you can take aside from the main trail to the knob. Ticks where found, use plenty of insect repellent.
great hike, moderate to hard. 1,150ft of elevation gain within the first 30 minutes.
There are a couple extra loops that you can take aside from the main trail to the knob. Ticks where found, use plenty of insect repellent.
Amazing hike. Be prepared for a lot of up hill, but when you get to the top, it’s worth it!
Amazing hike. Be prepared for a lot of up hill, but when you get to the top, it’s worth it!
Amazing hike. Be prepared for a lot of up hill, but when you get to the top, it’s worth it!
Nice hike with amazing views, trails are mapped out and marked very well.
Very rewarding, but slightly challenging hike, mostly uphill the whole way.
Nice hike with amazing views, trails are mapped out and marked very well.
Very rewarding, but slightly challenging hike, mostly uphill the whole way.
Nice hike with amazing views, trails are mapped out and marked very well.
Very rewarding, but slightly challenging hike, mostly uphill the whole way.
Great fall day for a hike. 1.2 miles each way with about a 700 foot elevation gain according to the Apple watch. Small parking area. Easy to find. Great views, windy at the top today. Will definitely be going back. Listed as strenuous and I would agree. Plenty of places to stop along the trail and rest if needed. Path is well marked and someone has done a good job keeping it clear and maintained.