Kentucky Appalachians Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Kentucky Appalachians with our comprehensive tour guide. From culturally significant museums to scenic natural attractions, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Kentucky Appalachians

Kentucky Appalachians is a breathtaking mountain range in the south of Kentucky, in the United States of America. Renowned for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, Kentucky Appalachians is a top destination for travelers seeking an escape from city life. The region is home to a vibrant local community with traditional mountain culture, unique dialect, and a distinct Appalachian cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Kentucky Appalachians

  • Mammoth Cave National Park
  • Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
  • Natural Bridge State Resort Park
  • Red River Gorge
  • Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
  • Breaks Interstate Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kentucky Coal Museum: Showcasing the history of coal mining in the region, this museum is an important reminder of the arduous working conditions and dangers faced by miners.
  • Mountain Homeplace: A recreated 19th-century homestead that provides a glimpse into Appalachian life and the hardships faced by early settlers.
  • Eastern Kentucky Exposition Center: This versatile venue hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including craft fairs, rodeos, and concerts.

Natural Attractions of Kentucky Appalachians: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mammoth Cave National Park: Known for its extensive cave network, Mammoth Cave National Park also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and horseback riding.
  • Cumberland Falls State Resort Park: Home to the famous “Moonbow”, Cumberland Falls is a stunning waterfall that is best viewed at night under a full moon.
  • Red River Gorge: A mecca for rock climbers, this area is also perfect for hiking and exploring natural bridges and arches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kentucky Appalachians

  • Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail: A 319-mile trail that winds through some of the most scenic parts of the Kentucky Appalachian region.
  • Daniel Boone National Forest: A vast trail network that provides a variety of difficulty levels for hiking and biking enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Kentucky Appalachians: Activities and Tours

  • Zip-lining at Red River Gorge: Soar through the tree canopy and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Horseback Riding at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park: Experience the region’s natural beauty on horseback with a guided tour.
  • Haunted Coal Mine Tour: Explore the dark and creepy passages of an abandoned coal mine and learn about the region’s mining history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kentucky Appalachians

|Day | Activity | |— | — | |Day 1 | Visit Mammoth Cave National Park | |Day 2 | Explore the Kentucky Coal Museum and Mountain Homeplace | |Day 3 | Go hiking at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park | |Day 4 | Experience zip-lining and natural formations at Red River Gorge | |Day 5 | Horseback riding at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park | |Day 6 | Take the Haunted Coal Mine Tour | |Day 7 | Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene |

Food and Drink Scene of Kentucky Appalachians

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kentucky Hot Brown: A savory dish that originated in Louisville, Kentucky, made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.
  • Country Ham: A salty and tangy cured ham that is often served at breakfast with biscuits and gravy.
  • Fried Chicken: A Southern classic, fried chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Local Beverages

  • Bourbon: Often referred to as America’s native spirit, Kentucky is home to many famous bourbon distilleries such as Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, and Wild Turkey.
  • Ale-8-One: A unique ginger and citrus-flavored soda that has been popular in Kentucky since the 1920s.
  • Moonshine: A distilled spirit that is illegal in most places, moonshine has roots in the Kentucky Appalachians and can be found in specialty shops in the region.

Where to Stay in Kentucky Appalachians: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Boone Tavern Hotel: Located in Berea, Boone Tavern Hotel is a historic hotel with cozy rooms and elegant décor.
  • Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Lodge: Enjoy rustic charm at this lodge with comfortable rooms and proximity to hiking trails.
  • Red River Gorge Cabin Rentals: Surrounded by picturesque scenery, these cabins offer a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.

What to Buy in Kentucky Appalachians: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Homemade Jams and Jellies: Made from local fruits such as blackberries and peaches, these jams and jellies are a sweet souvenir to bring home.
  • Handcrafted Pottery: Berea, Kentucky is known for its unique pottery, with many local artisans creating beautiful and functional pieces.
  • Appalachian Crafts: From handmade quilts to woodcarvings, there are plenty of traditional Appalachian crafts to choose from when shopping in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Kentucky Appalachians

The people of Kentucky Appalachians are fiercely independent and self-sufficient, shaped by the demands of life in the mountains. Family and community are highly valued, and hospitality and generosity are hallmarks of the local culture. Traditional music and dance, such as bluegrass and clogging, are popular art forms in the region.

Best Time to Visit Kentucky Appalachians

The best time to visit Kentucky Appalachians is in the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold. Spring is also a beautiful time to visit, with wildflowers blooming and temperatures warming up. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters bring snow and cold temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kentucky Appalachians

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take the time to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash behind when exploring the natural beauty of the region.
  • Disrespect the local culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kentucky Appalachians

Like any destination, travelers should take normal safety precautions when visiting Kentucky Appalachians. Some areas of the region may have limited cell service, so it is recommended to plan accordingly. When exploring the natural attractions, be sure to stay on designated trails and follow safety guidelines.

Health in Kentucky Appalachians

Ticks and other insects can be a concern in the region, so it is recommended to wear insect repellent and protective clothing when hiking or spending time outdoors. Drinking water from natural sources can also be a health risk, so it is best to bring your own water or purchase bottled water.

Getting to Kentucky Appalachians: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kentucky Appalachians

  • Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky: 100 miles from Kentucky Appalachians
  • Tri-Cities Airport in Blountville, Tennessee: 71 miles from Kentucky Appalachians

Bus Stations Near Kentucky Appalachians

  • Greyhound Bus Lines in Corbin, Kentucky
  • Jefferson Lines in Middlesboro, Kentucky

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to get around and explore Kentucky Appalachians, as the region is quite rural with limited public transportation options.

How to Get Around in Kentucky Appalachians

Renting a car is the best option for getting around and exploring the Kentucky Appalachian region. Alternatively, guided tours and shuttles may be available for some attractions.

Where to Go Next from Kentucky Appalachians: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located in Tennessee, this national park is home to stunning mountain vistas and abundant wildlife.
  • Asheville, North Carolina: Known for its vibrant arts scene and scenic beauty, Asheville is a great place to continue your Appalachian adventure.

Conclusion

Kentucky Appalachians is a destination not to be missed, with its beautiful natural attractions, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming local community. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a relaxing retreat, Kentucky Appalachians has something for everyone.



    Carter Caves State Resort Park
    Catlettsburg
    Morehead