Take the Scenic Route

Known as the “first gateway to the west,” Cumberland Gap National Historical Park boasts over 24,000 acres of wilderness for you to explore. Meander through the Eastern deciduous forest on a variety of trails, with distances ranging from a 1/4-mile loop trail to the 21-mile-long Ridge Trail. Or, take a guided tour of Gap Cave—a hidden gem located directly beneath the renowned Pinnacle Overlook. Wildlife is abundant throughout the park, so make sure to bring your camera! When the sun starts to set, head back to town for a hearty meal at Shades Café & Restaurant.

Home to some of the most extraordinary views and rock formations in Kentucky, Kingdom Come State Park offers a peaceful day in nature. With 14 hiking trails spanning 5 miles of the park, all our trails are less than one mile in length—perfect for a peaceful stroll in nature. If you’re looking to get out on the water, rent a pedal boat or go fishing in the stunning 3.5-acre lake. Don’t forget to pack a lunch to enjoy at one of our scenic picnic shelters. If you’re a history buff, take a detour at the Kentucky Coal Museum to learn some fascinating details about the history of the area.

Whether you’re hoping for a relaxing weekend out on the water or something more adventurous, Lake Linville is the destination you’re looking for. A 344-acre lake located right off of I-75, has something for everyone. The lake is an angler’s dream with an abundant supply of catfish, bluegill, large and small-mouth bass, crappie, carp, hybrid stripers, and yellow perch. Rent a pontoon boat or kayak at Lake Linville Marina. Make it a weekend and camp at Rockcastle Riverside, which has several sites for RV and primitive camping, allowing you the chance to explore and relax in the quiet beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Retrace the footsteps of 18th-century pioneers as they traversed westward through Kentucky at Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park. Visitors can follow three different hiking trails—a total of 8.5 miles in length—that take you through Kentucky’s Wilderness Road. While exploring the park, take a detour at the Mountain Life Museum and McHargue’s Mill, where you can catch a glimpse of Kentucky’s pioneer heritage. On your way back into town, explore more of Kentucky’s fascinating history by visiting the Battle of Camp Wildcat Mountain, a well-preserved Civil War battle site, or take a more strenuous 4.8-mile out-and-back hike to picturesque Vanhook Falls to enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.

Known for being the first historical Kentucky State Park, Pine Mountain State Resort Park has something for everyone. Home to hundreds of species of birds, 12 miles of trails, and a picturesque historic lodge, it’s the perfect relaxing weekend getaway. Take a quick stroll to Lookout Point, where you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the valley and the city of Pineville, play a round of golf at the Wasioto Winds Golf Course, and enjoy dinner with a view at the Mountain View Restaurant. If you’re staying for the weekend, head a little south to enjoy fishing at the quiet and peaceful Cannon Creek Lake.

Wander one of the most historically significant trails in American History at Rawling Stinson Park! Known as the Warrior's Path, the route was created by buffalo searching for salt deposits. You’ll follow in the footsteps of famous long hunters and explorers, including Dr. Thomas Walker and Daniel Boone, before passing through the Goose Creek Swinging Bridge, a fascinating relic of Appalachian heritage. Before beginning your journey along the Warrior’s Path, don’t miss the famous Stone of Witness, a Red Bird Petroglyph rock with ancient inscriptions. While in the area, be sure to check out Goose Creek Salt Works, the first settlement in Clay County and one of the most historic sites in southeast Kentucky.

Located in historic downtown Harlan, The Portal Pizza pays homage to the rich history of Harlan County while serving up the area’s finest wood-fired pizzas and steak. Using a variety of homegrown ingredients, their menu is as fresh as it is delicious. Once you finish up your meal, wander through downtown Harlan to see murals, local shops, and even walking tours where you can learn about the history of Harlan.