The city of Pineville is notable as to its relationship to Boone Trace for two primary reasons:
- There is a secondary “gap” at Pineville similar to the Cumberland Gap through which Boone Trace had to traverse. It is known as “The Narrows,” and is a water gap where the Cumberland River snakes through Pine Mountain along Hwy 119 in Pineville.
- It is also the location of the Cumberland Ford, where early pioneers and Native Americans crossed at a shallow position along the Cumberland River from the west side to the east before proceeding north.
It is one of the oldest settlements in Kentucky established in 1781, only six years after Boone Trace was opened in 1775. It initially was known as the “Cumberland Ford.” It was only later renamed Pineville in 1870 only when it became more of a population center.
Today, Pineville lies nestled behind a flood wall and Pine Mountain. Start a visit at the Visitor’s Center located at the town square off of Hwy 25E next to the Bell Theatre. From there, you can be directed to the Chained Rock site and other points of interest. Pineville also hosts the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival annually.