Bad Branch Falls – High Rock Trail

Bad Branch Falls Nature Preserve

  • address KY-932, Eolia, KY 4082637.0692269-82.7608634

Bad Branch Falls, with it’s beautiful trail and enchanting 60 ft. waterfall, is a Letcher County treasure. It is a must see for visitors wanting to explore our area. The hike to Bad Branch Falls is a little over a mile (one way) and takes close to 2.5 hours at a leisurely pace. The trail will take you through an old timber haul road that was built in the 30’s or 40’s.
This hike is a categorized as a moderate hike because it requires climbing over rocks and walking around small ledges. During the winter, there is usually ice along the trail which can also make hiking somewhat dangerous. Most people that can walk one mile should not have any trouble. 
The scenery to the falls is breathtaking, including high sandstone cliffs, giant hemlock pines and many different types of rock formations. If you want something a little more challenging, there is an option to take the High Rock Loop Trail, a little over 2 mile hike to the crest of Pine Mountain. This trail joins in with the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail - which will stretch over 110 miles when completed.

Photo credit- Letcher County Tourism www.discoverletcher.com

Coal City Coffee & Heavenly Donuts

SmileFaith Appalachia

  • address 9599 Hwy 805, Jenkins, KY 4153737.1728664-82.63266399999999

SmileFaith delivers free dental care, health screenings, and other services in Eastern Kentucky. The store in Jenkins, KY (Coal City Coffee) features a fantastic Coffee Shop with home made treats, gift shop, dental charity services, and more, along with being a community/recreational center where free goods are distributed to those in need.

Cowan Creek Cottage

Air Bnb

Cowan Creek Cottage is close to the Cowan Community Center and only 5½ miles outside the city limits of Whitesburg. The cottage is located at the foothills of Pine Mountain. You’ll love the cottage and enjoy the feel of having your own little home in the mountains. Enjoy a clean and comfortable home away from home while visiting friends and family and enjoying our community. Cowan Creek Cottage is good for couples, solo adventurers, business travelers, and families.

Harlan County Beer Company

  • address 120 Central Street Harlan, Harlan, KY 4083136.8468664-83.3220079

When miners began mining, brewers began brewing. Based in the heart of the Appalachian coalfields of Eastern Kentucky, Harlan County Beer Company’s vision is to bring people together to celebrate historic Harlan County’s past and future. Harlan County’s coal helped build America and win World War II. It’s now time to say thank you to Harlan County and its people by drinking a beer.

We will make that long overdue thank you happen by brewing high-quality beer and serving delicious locally inspired food in a beautifully restored 100-year old historic building on the courthouse square in downtown Harlan, Kentucky. Our mission is to create a growing and sustainable business that strengthens community bonds, builds pride, and contributes to the growing tourism industry in Appalachia.

Kentucky Mist Distillery

KY Mist Moonshine Distillery

  • address 128 East Main Street, Whitesburg, KY 4185837.11745579999999-82.822363

Kentucky Mist Moonshine Distillery was established by Appalachian Native, Colin Fultz, in the late 2010's in a Historic Building in downtown, Whitesburg. This distillery offers pure 100% authentic Appalachian Moonshine and Liquors, unmatched in quality and taste. Coming from a long line of moonshiners, this recipe has been perfected over the ages, and is now distributed all over the United States. KY Mist has 3 more stores, one in Lexington, KY, Myrtle Beach, SC, and Mobile, AL. Come in for a free tasting, tour of the original style moonshine stills, amazing local merchandise, and of course, the world class moonshine.

Kingdom Come State Park

Kingdom Come State Park

  • address 502 Park Rd, Cumberland, Kentucky 4082336.9896573-82.9846548

Kingdom Come State Park, Cumberland, Kentucky. Where nature's grandeur meets outdoor adventure! Nestled within the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, this breathtaking park offers an abundance of natural beauty and exciting recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Explore the Great Outdoors:
Get ready to embark on a journey through stunning landscapes, dense forests, and lush greenery on the park's well-maintained hiking trails. Whether you're a novice hiker or an experienced trekker, Kingdom Come State Park has trails suitable for everyone, ensuring a memorable and rewarding experience.

Discover Peace at the Lake:
The heart of Kingdom Come State Park lies in its massive lake, a tranquil oasis perfect for relaxation and recreation. Enjoy kayaking, Paddle boating or fishing on the pristine waters.

Awe-Inspiring Overlooks:
For those seeking jaw-dropping panoramic views, Kingdom Come State Park has several well-positioned overlooks that offer awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Whether you visit during sunrise or sunset, these vantage points promise to take your breath away and provide perfect settings for capturing memorable photos.

Treat Yourself at the Gift Shop:
Don't forget to stop by the park's charming gift shop, where you can find a delightful selection of souvenirs, local crafts, and nature-inspired gifts. Take home a piece of Kingdom Come State Park to cherish the memories of your unforgettable visit.

Experience the unparalleled beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the wealth of outdoor activities awaiting you at Kingdom Come State Park. Come and immerse yourself in the splendor of Kingdom Come State Park – a hidden gem in Cumberland, Kentucky, that promises to leave you captivated and rejuvenated. Nature's wonders and unforgettable experiences await! Book your trip now and be ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of Appalachia.

Kohleburgring Trailhead

  • address 36 State Hwy 510, Bledsoe, KY 4081036.949523905154074-83.18572094456506

Navigate to the trailhead to begin Kohleburgring.

Mars Rock

Mars Rock Overlook

  • address Tower Hill Rd, Eolia, Kentucky 4082637.0775097-82.8079348

Mars Rock is a true anomaly of the Appalachian Mountains. Experience the other worldly terrain right in the heart of the Central Appalachian Mountains. Nestled on top of Pine Mountain, US119 (the Slingshot) Mars rock is truly an unforgettable visit. 

Pine Mountain Settlement School

  • address 36 HWY 510, Bledsoe, KY 4081036.9032212-83.3401971

We are a National Historic Landmark on 1000 pristine acres in Harlan County, Kentucky. Our mission is to enrich lives and connect people through Appalachian place-based education for all ages. We offer classes, events, and lodging and event spaces. All revenues support our local community through environmental education, agriculture and sustainability, and traditional craft initiatives.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park

  • address 1050 State Park Road, Pineville, KY 4097736.7362449-83.73776699999999

Pine Mountain State Resort Park is located in Pineville, Kentucky and is a true gem in the Kentucky State Parks system. Make sure to check out our cabin rentals, and our amazing hike to chained rock.

The Dragon Slayer Welcome Center

Backroads of Appalachia Welcome Center

  • address 7 East Main, Lynch, Ky 4085536.9649618-82.9159818

Backroads of Appalachia is a non-profit organization with a passion and empathy for the Appalachian Region, driving economic development, job training and opportunity to the poverty stricken areas of Appalachia through tourism and motor sports.

This is where it all began, the Dragon Slayer Welcome Center. The beating heart of Backroads of Appalachia, this building has served as the trailhead for HWY160 since the Non-profits conception. Be sure to stop in and say hello, get your pictures taken, sign the wall, and get some merch from the very building that started everything you see today. Thank you all for your continued support.

 

The Stone Studio BnB

Air bnb

A historic two-room studio cottage built from Kentucky River rock.

Entire cottage rented for your privacy. Recently renovated with the modern conveniences of a kitchenette, outdoor smoking area, Wi-Fi, DirectTV, and blackout curtains. High ceilings create a bright and spacious feel.

Conveniently located close to downtown. Off street parking by your front door. Walk to Main Street, Appalshop, and Kentucky Mist Distillery as well as many other small businesses and restaurants