Eastern Kentucky

Red River gorge

Home to rugged cliffs, secluded swimming holes and pine-clad hiking trails, Red River Gorge in Daniel Boone National Forest is one of Kentucky’s natural treasures. The gorge is a favourite for rock climbers with craggy cliffs, natural bridges and the largest collection of sandstone arches east of the Rockies. Those looking for a slower pace can enjoy scenic drives and picnic spots on the banks of Mill Creek Lake. Be sure to stop at Chimney Top Rock lookout point for a 360-degree view of The Gorge.

Cumberland Falls

Known as the ‘Niagara of the South’, Cumberland Falls in McCreary County is Kentucky’s largest waterfall and one of the few places in the world that regularly produces a ‘moonbow’ during a full moon. See the falls from one of the many hiking trails or take a guided horseback ride that winds through the park. Experience the full force of the falls with a white-water ride just downriver from its dramatic drop, then sit back and watch the riverbanks pass by on a sightseeing tour aboard The Cumberland Star riverboat.

Country Music Highway

Follow in the footsteps of Kentucky’s country music stars including Loretta Lynn, Chris Stapleton and Billy Ray Cyrus by driving the Country Music Highway. This scenic roadway rambles through seven counties, hugging the border of West Virginia and passing beautiful state parks. Music and storytelling traditions run deep in Eastern Kentucky, which has produced more hit country artists than any other region per capita. Visit the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum which hosts live bluegrass music every Thursday, and don’t miss a visit to singer-songwriter Loretta Lynn’s home in Butcher Holler.

Carter Caves

Wind through a seemingly endless maze of ancient caves at Carter Caves State Resort Park. The Carter County region has the highest concentration of caves in Kentucky and dates back millions of years. Marvel at the Great Chandelier, a formation of stalactites suspended from the roof of X-Cave or take a tour of a 30-foot high underground waterfall inside Cascade Cave. A gem mining experience is a great way to get kids engaging with their natural surroundings and uncovers real gemstones and fossils.