If you have yet to experience the mountains of Kentucky, then it really is time to head east and see this gorgeous area of our state. And if you’re thinking – there are mountains in Kentucky?! – then you truly need to plan a getaway soon. We not only have mountains in the Bluegrass State, but we have many small towns that are lovely places to visit. It seems others have noticed this beauty and the Eastern Kentucky city of Whitesburg was recently recognized as one of the most stunning mountain towns in the country. You can read the entire list here, but in the meantime, check out why you should see the mountains of Eastern Kentucky for yourself.
Whitesburg is a small town in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky that calls itself a “diamond among the coal fields.”
Facebook/Letcher County Tourism Actually, all of Letcher County could be called this, as it is a stunning area of our state. And Whitesburg is a town that’s filled with tradition and personality, making it a great home base during a visit.
The town and Letcher County have evolved into a tourist destination over the past few years, thanks to the variety of activities you can do in the area.
Facebook/City of Whitesburg Of course you’ll have to spend time in the mountains, but don’t forget to also check out the local shops and restaurants. Whitesburg is also home to Kentucky Mist Distillery and you can read more about that here.
But in addition to the charming town and tasty Moonshine, Whitesburg is known as a naturally beautiful place.
Facebook/Letcher County Tourism Nestled in Pine Mountain, near the Virgina border, the scenery and hiking trails here are unlike any other in the state.
Letcher County has capitalized on these mountain views with some easily accessible overlooks that are perfect for visitors.
Facebook/Letcher County Tourism These overlooks are situated right along the road and offer parking and typically a place to sit and take in the views. See more of the overlooks and learn how to find them in our previous article here.
Another great way to experience this area is within nearby Bad Branch State Nature Preserve.
Facebook/Letcher County Tourism The hiking trails here are incredible and after a good rain, you’ll love the sight of Bad Branch Falls, towering down from above. Read more about Bad Branch Trail here.
As if mountains weren’t enough scenery, a fork of the Kentucky River also flows right through town.
Facebook/Letcher County Tourism Take a kayak out and see the town from the water. While in the area, you can also try horse back riding, ATV adventures, fishing, and more.
Not far from Whitesburg, about a half an hour actually, is Kingdom Come State Park.
Facebook/Letcher County Tourism This park offers incredible trails and views and is a must see spot when you are exploring Pine Mountain. And you can now see why Whitesburg made this list and why a trip to the mountains of Eastern Kentucky is warranted for every outdoor-loving local.
Whitesburg and Letcher County are growing in popularity as vacation destinations in Kentucky and with natural beauty like this, it’s easy to see why. Have you explored this area of our state? Is it on your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
Facebook/Letcher County Tourism
Actually, all of Letcher County could be called this, as it is a stunning area of our state. And Whitesburg is a town that’s filled with tradition and personality, making it a great home base during a visit.
Facebook/City of Whitesburg
Of course you’ll have to spend time in the mountains, but don’t forget to also check out the local shops and restaurants. Whitesburg is also home to Kentucky Mist Distillery and you can read more about that here.
Nestled in Pine Mountain, near the Virgina border, the scenery and hiking trails here are unlike any other in the state.
These overlooks are situated right along the road and offer parking and typically a place to sit and take in the views. See more of the overlooks and learn how to find them in our previous article here.
The hiking trails here are incredible and after a good rain, you’ll love the sight of Bad Branch Falls, towering down from above. Read more about Bad Branch Trail here.
Take a kayak out and see the town from the water. While in the area, you can also try horse back riding, ATV adventures, fishing, and more.
This park offers incredible trails and views and is a must see spot when you are exploring Pine Mountain. And you can now see why Whitesburg made this list and why a trip to the mountains of Eastern Kentucky is warranted for every outdoor-loving local.
And for more information on the area and to plan your visit, check out the Letcher County Tourism site here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
