This is a gorgeous hike on my favorite trail in Kentucky - Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail. Enjoy the sturdy, boxy Eagle Arch and a big view from Americorps Cliff Overlook that sits high atop Pine Mountain. The approach to the overlook is picturesque - especially on sunny days with small puffy clouds on the horizon;-)
Read MoreThe is the last of five overlooks along US-119 and is a really cool spot. A former homestead has been converted into a shelter near the overlook. I imagine living here would’ve been pretty amazing to enjoy sunset each night:-)
Read MoreThis overlook has powerlines to obstruct the view, but the picnic area is in the footprint of an old homestead along US-119. Visit one of the other four overlooks for a better view, but enjoy a picnic with larger group here.
Read MoreThis is the third of five overlooks along the northwest face of Pine Mountain on US-119 in Letcher County. These roadside overlooks are well developed with viewing platforms, picnic tables, and trash receptacles.
Read MoreThis 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 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 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 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 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 is a drive-up overlook at the end of the road in Hartig Park and Wildlife Reserve in Gallatin County. Views like this are few and far between along the Ohio River, and this 800+ acre park is something of a lesser known in Northern Kentucky. It offers free camping, this amazing view, and a number of trails that I’ll fully explore in the coming weeks. Also, expect to see deer in great numbers along the farm fields leading to the park during their active hours.
Read MoreThis is a quick walk on handicap accessible paved trail to a gorgeous overlook of Cumberland Gap where Daniel Boone and other early European settlers blazed a path west. With vast views and easy access, this is a must-visit while at the park. Daybreak is particularly beautiful here as the clouds above and morning fog layer below come to life.
Read MoreThis quick walk leaves from the same parking lot as Chained Rock and provides a gorgeous view of the small town of Pineville below. Though not paved, the walk is highly accessible and the overlook has railings for added safety and stability.
Read MoreThis is among Kentucky’s most iconic vistas and is on the must-hike list for anyone exploring the Commonwealth. Situated high above Pineville, the chain - as local lore would have it - was designed to ensure the massive rock wouldn’t tumble down the mountain. Would it work? Meh, probably not. But it does make for some amazing photography:-)
Read MoreThis is an absolutely gorgeous overlook - especially for sunset! This was my last stop before heading north for home, and looking back, I wish I’d have stayed here until nightfall. That said, several weeks before or after this July hike would be ideal, as the sun would set directly above Bear Creek for an amazing view.
Read MoreFinding peace and happiness on the trails of Kentucky.
