This is the second of five overlooks on US-119 near the top of Pine Mountain in Letcher County. These roadside attractions are nicely developed with a viewing platform, picnic tables, and trash receptacle.
Read MoreThis is the lowest of five roadside overlooks on the northwest slope of Pine Mountain on US-119. It has a viewing platform and picnic tables making for a great spot to enjoy a meal while taking in the views.
Read MoreThis overlook isn’t on any maps, but it’s a large patch of exposed rock with a steep slope facing southeast - making it an ideal spot for sunrise. You can enjoy the view from the road or walk down a few steps to have some all natural seating.
Read MoreThis long abandoned lookout tower is a nice piece of history and a great place to explore along the Little Shepherd Trail. Some folks constructed a ladder to the first platform, but the boards are badly rotted and climbing this is at minimum foolish. Enjoy the views from below, as big views are available north at KY-2010 or across the road at Goss Park.
Read MoreThis was an unexpected surprise while driving up Pine Mountain on KY-2010. Along the road is this giant rock with a little space for parking and some long-established user trails. While the area was heavily trashed below, the overlooks above were simply gorgeous.
Read MoreOne of the best spots for sunset at Pine Mountain State Resort Park is the back patio at Herndon J. Evans Lodge. It offers a picture perfect view down the valley with the sun setting over Pine Mountain. Ideal sunset views here are mid-Fall through mid-Spring, and I’d love to see this snow-covered someday.
Read MoreThis is a terrific trail and one that’ll be loved by the whole family. Walk along the scenic Clear Creek, pass through an old railroad tunnel, and see if you can spot the remnants of the old papermill. If you have younger kiddos, use the KY-1491 trailhead and walk east to shorten the hike.
Read MoreThis is a nice overlook with a shrinking view thanks to growth in front of the viewing area. The state park trail crew trims these sorts of things back every so often, and I imagine this will be addressed sooner than later.
Read MoreThis lollipop takes you to an A-framed rock shelter that’s goes pretty deep into the rock. It’s a great destination on hot days for the all natural air conditioning provided here. The walk around the loop portion of the lollipop goes through some rhododendron and would be best when they’re in season in late June into July.
Read MoreThis is a really nice, short walk through the forest at Pine Mountain SRP. With one climb made easier with a switchback, this loop hike passes some interesting rock formations and is kid friendly. It’s also a short walk from Laurel Cove Amphitheater and a great way to enjoy the forest before the show.
Read MoreSituated below and behind the lodge, this forest walk goes through a garden of hemlocks with a number of very old hemlocks having recently fallen. From there, move through Fat Man’s Squeeze before heading out to Meditation Point. I visited after a dry period, but I see the appeal. From Winter through mid-Summer, this likely has a waterfall below with a giant rock rising up through the mature forest in the backdrop.
Read MoreThis short little loop is something the kids will love. There are a ton of frogs here, and you’ll hear them jump into the pond as you make your way around the pond.
Read MoreI like to be out in nature with the fewest number of manmade structures in view - and that’s why mornings are the best time to head out to an overlook like this. Normally, the small town of Pineville dominates the view, but with morning fog in the valley, the viewshed becomes all natural.
Read MoreThis is among the best sunrise spots in Kentucky and boy did I have a GREAT morning here! With fog filling the valleys and mountain knobs rising above, this was a special scene. Down below it was like a waterfall of morning fog flowing northwest through the gap.
Read MoreAfter a nice half day of hiking and a lot of time on the road, walking out to Pineville Overlook to enjoy the nighttime scene below over dinner was a perfect way to cap the day.
Read MoreBeautiful creek, old growth forest, huge variety of mushrooms, and one of the most beautiful pieces of rock in Kentucky. Oh, and that view’s pretty good too;-) Blanton Forest State Nature Preserve is one of the few examples of old growth forest in the Commonwealth, and this hike takes full advantage of this natural treasure.
Read MoreThis is a nice, short mountain hike with a steady, challenging grade to reach Powderhorn Arch. This is one of three documented sandstone arches on the park’s property and is a fun one to be sure. You can continue all the way up to Chained Rock to add another couple miles to the out and back.
Read MoreThis is a beautiful small arch that’s difficult to locate this time of year thanks to plentiful roadside vegetation. If you’re passing through Nada Tunnel, this is a nice stop when parking is available. Use the GPS waypoints, photos, and navigation section to make finding this arch a little easier.
Read MoreI LOVE this hike! Cross Indian Creek, visit a pair of unique arches, and enjoy one of the best overlooks in Red River Gorge with plenty of elevation gain along the way. Be sure to pack a lunch to enjoy the massive views at Blackburn Rock!
Read MoreThis easy walk out to see the bison at Big Bone is the most popular hike at the park. On hot days, the bison typically stay in the shaded areas away from visitors to beat the heat. Knowing this, I visited a couple hours before sunset and enjoyed watching the herd make its way around the fields as the shadows grew long and the day’s heat subsided.
Read MoreFinding peace and happiness on the trails of Kentucky.
