Hazard Travel Guide

This comprehensive tour guide for Hazard, Kentucky covers all the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and much more.


Introduction to Hazard

Nestled in the heart of Daniel Boone Country, Hazard, Kentucky is an hidden gem bursting with rich history, breathtaking views, and friendly locals. Whether you’re interested in cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing, Hazard has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Hazard

Here are some of the top places to visit in Hazard:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Kentucky Coal Museum - This museum is an ode to the coal mining industry that has shaped the region for generations. Discover the history of coal mining in the area, learn about life underground, and explore interactive exhibits and displays.
  • Hazard-Perry County Tourism - This is the one-stop-shop for all things tourism in Hazard. Discover things to do, places to see, and local events through the helpful staff and interactive exhibits.
  • The Bobby Davis Museum and Park - This museum pays tribute to the life and accomplishments of Bobby Davis, a beloved local basketball coach. The museum showcases his life story, basketball career, and contributions to the community.

Natural Attractions of Hazard: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Buckhorn Lake State Park - This picturesque park offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and scenic drives through the park.
  • Perry County Park - A popular spot for picnics, hiking, and biking, this park offers a beautiful natural escape within the city limits.
  • The Little Shepherd Trail - This scenic drive offers sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains and is a must-see for nature lovers and photographers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hazard

Hazard is a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in and around Hazard:

  • The Dawkins Line Rail Trail - This 18-mile trail follows an old railroad bed through the scenic Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views and easy access to small towns along the way.
  • The Sheltowee Trace Trail - This 323-mile trail spans Kentucky and Tennessee and offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience. The trail features spectacular views, waterfalls, and camping opportunities for more adventurous hikers.
  • The Hazard-Perry County Trail System - This trail system offers over 20 miles of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and walking within the city limits.

Best Things to Do in Hazard: Activities and Tours

In addition to the top places to visit and hiking and biking routes, here are some more fun things to see and do in Hazard:

  • Take a tour of the historic Dils Cemetery - This cemetery is the burial place of many of the area’s founding families and offers a rich history and tales of the past.
  • Visit a local farmer’s market - Hazard offers several farmer’s markets full of fresh, locally grown produce and handmade goods.
  • Explore the local arts scene - Hazard boasts a thriving arts community, with galleries, studios, and performances showcasing the talent of the area’s artists and performers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hazard

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for exploring Hazard:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Kentucky Coal Museum
2 Hike the Dawkins Line Rail Trail
3 Explore Hazard’s downtown area
4 Visit Buckhorn Lake State Park
5 Bike Perry County Park Trail
6 Take a tour of historic downtown buildings
7 Enjoy a local festival or event

Food and Drink Scene of Hazard

No trip to Hazard is complete without indulging in some delicious local food and drink. Here’s what you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burgoo - A hearty stew made with meats, vegetables, and spices.
  • Fried Chicken - Hazard is famous for its delicious fried chicken, which can be found at many local restaurants.
  • Pinto Beans and Cornbread - A classic southern dish made with pinto beans and thick slices of homemade cornbread.

Local Beverages

  • Ale 8 One - A locally produced soft drink that has been an Appalachian staple for over 90 years.
  • Moonshine - Although illegal to produce, moonshine is a part of local Appalachian culture and can often be found at underground bars and speakeasies in Hazard.

Where to Stay in Hazard: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hazard offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the top options:

  • Comfort Inn and Suites - A modern, well-appointed hotel with comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and indoor pool.
  • Hazard Heritage Inn - A charming, family-owned hotel in the heart of downtown Hazard, with comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.
  • Eagle’s Nest Bed and Breakfast - This cozy bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms, homemade breakfast, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in Hazard: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some unique and locally made products to bring home as souvenirs or gifts:

  • Honey - Hazard is home to several beekeepers who produce delicious, locally made honey.
  • Handmade Quilts - The Appalachian region is known for its beautiful handmade quilts, which can be found at local art galleries and shops.
  • Moonshine Jellies and Jams - These unique spreads are made with locally produced moonshine and can be found at many local markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Hazard

The people of Hazard are proud of their Appalachian heritage and are known for their hospitality and friendly nature. Visitors will often be greeted with a warm smile and a friendly conversation. As with any community, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs, including the emphasis on family, community, and hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Hazard

The best time to visit Hazard is in the late spring or early fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. Summer can be hot and humid, and winters can be bitterly cold with occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hazard

Here are some things to keep in mind during your trip to Hazard:

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Take the time to explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • Sample the delicious local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas.
  • Don’t make fun of local customs or traditions.
  • Don’t overlook the rich history and cultural attractions of the area.

Safety and Health

Hazard is a relatively safe area, but visitors should take some precautions:

Safety in Hazard

  • Be aware of your surroundings, particularly when hiking or exploring natural areas.
  • Take care when driving on narrow, winding roads.
  • Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.

Health in Hazard

  • Drink bottled water to avoid the possibility of contamination.
  • Use sunscreen and bug spray when hiking or spending time outdoors.
  • Be aware of the risks of heat exhaustion during the summer months.

Getting to Hazard: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some options for getting to Hazard:

Airports Near Hazard

  • Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) - Located in Bristol, Tennessee, this airport is the closest major airport to Hazard, about 75 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Hazard

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - This bus line stops in Hazard on its route between Lexington and Charleston, West Virginia.

Other Options

  • Hazard can also be reached via private car, with several major highways leading to the area.

How to Get Around in Hazard

If you are traveling without a car, there are several options for getting around Hazard and the surrounding area:

  • Taxi service - Hazard has several taxi services for getting around town.
  • Bike rental - Many local businesses offer bike rentals for exploring the city and nearby trails.
  • Walking and Hiking - Hazard is a walkable city, and many attractions and restaurants are within easy walking distance.

Where to Go Next from Hazard: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have a little extra time to explore the surrounding area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • The Natural Bridge State Park - This scenic area features a massive natural sandstone arch and hiking trails through the surrounding mountains.
  • The Red River Gorge Geological Area - This area offers some of the best rock climbing and hiking in the state, with stunning views and unique geological formations.
  • The Kentucky Bourbon Trail - This popular tourist destination offers tours of several local distilleries, including the world-famous Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam.

Conclusion

Hazard, Kentucky is a beautiful and unique destination, with something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply relaxing and enjoying local food and drink, you’ll find it all in Hazard. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has been helpful in planning your trip to this charming Appalachian city.