Powell County Tourism - Welcome to the Frontpage

Welcome to Powell County, Kentucky!

Click here for Bear Related Gorge information and Safety.

Carved from 70 million years of geological forces, Powell County is nestled between the famed
Appalachian Mountains and Bluegrass Regions of Central Kentucky. With stunning scenery around
each turn, your senses will delight in our country paradise. The eastern end of the county boasts
one of the most biologically diverse temperate forests in the world and contains over one hundred arches
and rock shelters, 2nd only to Arches National Park.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park and The Red River Gorge Geological Area invite visitors to experience
towering sandstone cliffs, overhanging rock ledges, graceful waterfalls, a rich diversity of endangered
plant and wildlife habitats and significant archaeological sites. Numerous Hiking trails and arches attract hikers and rock climbers from around the world, so ample opportunities abound for outdoor adventure in this forested paradise.

NATURAL BRIDGE
RED RIVER GORGE
STANTON & CLAY CITY

These two areas were voted the best places to hike in Kentucky by Kentucky Living Magazine
readers, but there is much, much more to do and see. People come from all over the world to climb,
camp, canoe, repel, fish, or ride horses in this scenic wonderland.

If horses aren't your glass of iced tea, then maybe you would like to ride a bicycle or drive the Red River Gorge National Scenic Byway. Named one of the nations TOP 15 most scenic drives by Life Publications, and only one of three National Scenic Byways in Kentucky, The R.R.G.N.S.B. is a 46 mile journey through some of America's most beautiful landscapes and is home to the "Tour of the Red River Gorge" bicycle races held each year in June & July.

But there is much more to do than to revel in our natural surroundings... Take in exciting motorsports, Hear our heritage sing with some good 'ole Bluegrass music, Re-live the past in our historical museums, Learn how pottery is made, Try your hand at Clog dancing or catch a movie at one of only 11 remaining Drive-in theaters in Kentucky. Cozy log cabins, a state resort park, and local motels offer visitors a much needed break from their daily grind while local restaurants entice your appetite with country fare and world-class pizza.

So, we hope you will take the time to explore the many things we have to offer and if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to give us a call!

We are conveniently located at exits 16, 18, 22, & 33 on the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway, only 45 minutes from Lexington, KY; 2 hours from Louisville, KY; and 2 hours from Cincinnati, OH.

Last Updated (Wednesday, 07 July 2010 13:00)