Wild at Heart: Billy Yarosh and the Soul of Kentucky’s Trails
KY for KY x @billy.hikes
“Cave Run Star Trails Landscape” – Photo by Billy Yarosh
Meet Billy Yarosh
Some folks just *get* Kentucky. Not the typical postcard version—but the rugged, muddy-boot, sun-through-the-pines version. You'll find that in every image Billy Yarosh captures on the trail. He's not just hiking it—he's living it.
In 2010, Billy and his best friend Josh moved to Morehead, seeking a fresh start and "wilder" experiences. From the coves of Cave Run to the hollers of the Red River Gorge, they embraced everything this land had to offer. When Josh tragically passed in 2019, Billy committed himself even more to their dream—exploring Kentucky's backcountry and helping others do the same.
Now a key part of the AllTrails team and a passionate documentarian of the Bluegrass' outdoors, Billy's photos are more than pretty pictures. They're a love letter to a state that's always been a little unruly—in the best way possible.
Why We're Teaming Up
Billy's work resonates, striking a chord that tugs at our hearts. That's why we decided to spotlight this kick-ass Kentuckian and his love for promoting and keeping Kentucky wild. In the next few weeks, Billy's work will be featured across our channels. We hope y'all enjoy Billy and his adventures.
“Creation Falls Glow Portrait” – Photo by Billy Yarosh
“Dog Slaughter Falls DBNF London” – Photo by Billy Yarosh
Q&A: On the Trail with Billy
We caught up with Billy to ask about his passion, his process, and the power of the Kentucky woods.
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Q: What initially drew you to Kentucky's trails?
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A: I've always been drawn to wild, unfiltered places—and Kentucky has this raw, underrated beauty that's hard to explain until you're out there. I just wanted to go deeper as I discovered more that Kentucky had to offer.
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Q: What's one trail or spot that always brings you peace?
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A: Rock Bridge Trail always grounds and reconnects me with nature. It's excellent in any season, and Creation Falls is a beautiful waterfall that feels buried deep in the Gorge.Sharing it with a friend makes it even more meaningful.
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Q: How has your photography changed since you started?
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A: My photography has remained consistent with my message. The ultimate joy in perfecting your craft is producing work that is exactly how you envisioned it. I'm always learning new areas and styles so that I'm always staying sharp and growing.
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Q: What do you hope people feel when they see your photos?
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A: My photography is about accessibility, enabling others to feel exactly how I felt when experiencing a moment. It helps those who can't reach these places connect with them while encouraging others to share similar experiences.
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Q: Any advice for someone just starting to explore the outdoors?
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A: Start in a Kentucky State Park and get out on the weekends. I know there's more crowding on weekends, but when starting, this could make you feel safe knowing someone's around if you get injured or lost. Starting easy helps you learn how to prepare. Kentucky has beautiful state parks, and those focused on hiking are well maintained and offer incredible features, like Natural Bridge State Park.
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Q: What's the best kid-friendly trail in the Red River Gorge?
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A: It's one less thought of, but Whittleton Arch Trail is perfect for kids. It follows a gorgeous creek deep into the Gorge, features a massive arch, and has many cool bridges crossing it. It's safe since it doesn't brush on steep cliffs and is filled with wildflowers and, occasionally, a waterfall over the arch.
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Q: After a great hike, where's your go-to food spot?
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A: This is impossible to answer! Every region has its own killer location, like The Dairy Bar near the Big South Fork or Skybridge Station, The Rockhouse, Miguels in the Gorge, and Elliots Pizzeria near Cave Run Lake. Every side of Kentucky's outdoors has great eats!
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Q: What's in your backpack right now—any gear you can't live without?
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A: It would have to be beef jerky, and a good map. I use AllTrails to navigate and research my hikes, but I love the nostalgia and connection you get when opening a map to an area, especially if it was made by someone local to the area.
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Q: Ever run into any wildlife out there? Bears, coyotes, snakes…?
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A: Fingers crossed, but I've been pretty lucky here. I have heard some creepy noises. On night, I may have caught the shadow of a Sasquatch standing tall in the moonlight. I still feel that eary feeling I experienced to this day.
“Natural Arch - Natural Arch Scenic Area” – Photo by Billy and Lindzey
Gallery: The Wild Through Billy’s Lens
Scroll through some of our favorite shots from Billy’s time exploring the Kentucky backcountry—each one a reminder of how raw and beautiful the Bluegrass can be.
Photo Gallery
Creation Falls Glow
Cumberland Falls
Eagle Falls
Natural Arch Scenic
Flat Lick Falls
Berea Pinnacles Sunset
Chained Rock Fiery
Dog Slaughter Falls
Cave Run Star Trails
Sunset Lake View
Follow Billy's Journey
Wanna see more of Billy's world? Here's how:
Instagram: @billy.hikes
Website: billyhikes.com
Come Get Wild With Us
Billy's out here capturing the soul of Kentucky. We're just trying to keep up. Check out our new *Outdoor Collection* this weekend and get geared up to hit the trails. Whether you're deep in the Gorge or just wandering your own backyard—do it wild, do it Kentucky.
Who knows, maybe you'll run into Billy out there. If you do, tell him KY for KY made you do it.
