Austin Gap with Ravens Nest, Staircase Caves, and Skyview Rock Shelter
Arch, Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr Arch, Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr

Austin Gap with Ravens Nest, Staircase Caves, and Skyview Rock Shelter

This is a spectacular hike and leads to arguably the most interesting geological formations on Pine Mountain’s 120+ mile ridgeline. At the top, you’ll enjoy massive views east and south across Virginia, a pair of small caves, and an arch complex with a skylight that is absolutely stunning. BUT, you’re gonna have to work for it - see the notes below.

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Lone Tree to Pitch Ridge Overlooks Loop on Little Shepherd Trail
Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr

Lone Tree to Pitch Ridge Overlooks Loop on Little Shepherd Trail

This was a glorious hike to enjoy the fog covered views west and north of Pine Mountain. The knobs of Kentucky leading into the Ridges and Valleys of the Appalachian Mountains look like islands in the sky and this hike has plenty of spots to soak it all in.

With this being newly created trail, it needs more traffic to better define the path and even out the footing that remains somewhat slanted. I came across a number of downed trees and trimmed back a couple spots to provide a clear path. Please do NOT create side trails around deadfall. The chainsaw crew will be out there when time and resources allow.

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Bullock Overlook Just Before Sunrise
Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr

Bullock Overlook Just Before Sunrise

This is likely the most popular overlook at Kingdom Come State Park thanks to a short, flat walk of only a dozen or so paces to a 180° view. I didn't like the angle for sunrise, so I headed out to a couple better spots at Creech and Lone Tree Overlooks up the road. Nearer the Summer Solstice, this would be the best easy sunrise spot in the park.

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Leopold Gap to Mercy Seat Overlook
Michael Harr Michael Harr

Leopold Gap to Mercy Seat Overlook

This hike features four overlooks on the Little Shepherd Trail Section of Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail and is part of the Great Eastern Trail - a 1,800+ mile trail under construction from Florida through the Adirondacks. This quick day hike is a great way to sample the amazing views and get acquainted with this gorgeous trail section in Kentucky.

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Little Shepherd Trail from Kingdom Come to US-119 - Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail
Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr

Little Shepherd Trail from Kingdom Come to US-119 - Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail

What an exciting weekend on Pine Mountain! We backpacked the brand new Little Shepherd Trail Section of Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail (PMSST) between Kingdom Come State Park and US-119 TWICE, and it was AWESOME! There are SIXTEEN named overlooks on this segment with some of the biggest and best views anywhere in Kentucky! If you don’t have this trail on your list, put it at the top right now. It’s that good.

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