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Kentucky Appalachians Region

Discover a region where inspiring natural beauty, varied outdoor recreation, rich country music heritage and fascinating folk culture beckons visitors to leave the hustle and bustle behind.

In Eastern Kentucky, the state’s famed bluegrass gently folds into the ruggedly scenic Appalachian Mountains. All around, natural beauty soars across narrow ridge tops, deep canyons, rim rock cliffs, and spectacular spring and fall foliage. Natural areas like Carter Caves State Resort Park,  Jenny Wiley State Resort Park and Cave Run Lake lure visitors to enjoy world-class hiking, caving, fishing, paddling, golfing, boating, and traditional Appalachian cooking. 

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More Things to Do in the Kentucky Appalachians Region

Travel scenic byways like the Country Music Highway (U.S. 23), honoring the dozens of musical legends born and raised in the region. Stop at Butcher Holler, birthplace of Loretta Lynn, and uncover stories of the area’s rich mining heritage at the Coal Miners’ Museum. Take in a toe-tapping performance at Mountain HomePlace in Paintsville, Paramount Art Center in Ashland and the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum, which hosts live bluegrass every Thursday night. And cultural hubs such as the Kentucky Folk Art Center put the work of imaginative and talented artists and artisans on proud display.

Trip Inspiration

Articles

Hatfield & McCoy Trail

Involving land disputes, doomed love affairs, courtroom drama and violent clashes, the conflict raged for more than five decades on both sides of the Tug River, which carves out the border between Kentucky and West Virginia.
This deeply tangled story takes many twists and turns throughout Pike County in scenic Southeastern Kentucky. Stop by the Pike County Tourism Office in Pikeville to pick up free self-guided Hatfield & McCoy Driving Tour materials, which point out flashpoints in the feud and paint a vivid picture of the many colorful characters from both families.

Related Articles

Carter Caves State Resort Park, Olive Hill

Paul Tierney grew up exploring the caves of Eastern Kentucky, where he now helps others do the same as a park naturalist at Carter Caves State Resort Park in Olive Hill, Kentucky. He says it’s a great place to explore – both above ground and deep below it.

 

 

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