Get ready to explore the wild beauty and hidden gems of the Big South Fork! 🏞️ This comprehensive guide, curated by your local expert Finn, will lead you on unforgettable adventures. 🥾 Discover the best hiking trails, paddling routes, historical sites, and even hidden caves. 🦇 Plus, explore the charm of downtown Jamestown with Finn’s insider tips. ☕ Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or a peaceful escape in nature, this guide has everything you need to plan your perfect Big South Fork getaway! ✨
Neat places that don’t require much walking or hiking
History & Culture: Step back in time! Visit the historic Rugby Colony, explore the remains of the Blue Heron Mining Camp, or delve into the region’s Native American heritage at the Stearns One-Room Schoolhouse. 🏫⛏️
Finn’s Recommendation: Don’t miss the Pickett CCC Memorial State Park. It’s a beauty!
The East Rim Overlook is a scenic viewpoint in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. It offers panoramic views of the Cumberland Mountains, the Big South Fork River, and the surrounding forests. The overlook is easily accessible by car and is a popular spot for hiking, photography, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
The Oscar Blevins Homestead is a historic farm located in Jamestown, Tennessee. It was built in the 1800s and is now a popular tourist destination.
The homestead is open to the public and offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the area. Visitors can see the original log cabin, barn, and smokehouse, as well as exhibits about the homestead’s history and the people who lived there.
The Annual Spring Planting & Music Festival takes place here every year in April. https://www.nps.gov/biso/planyourvisit/springplanting.htm
While a train ride, it offers scenic views and may involve some walking. Seasonal operation.
Buy Tickets here: https://bsfsry.com/
The Blue Heron Mining Community is a historic site located in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in Stearns, Kentucky. It was once a thriving mining community, but now serves as a popular tourist attraction. Open 11 AM to 4 PM.
Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Trail are two easy hikes in Pickett State Park. The cave is a wonder to see!
Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park, also known as Alvin C. York Park, is a Tennessee state park honoring Alvin C. York, an American soldier who is considered one of the most decorated soldiers in United States military history. The park is located in Pall Mall, Tennessee, and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Things to do include:
Hike the trails through the park, including the York Family Trail, the Dogwood Trail, and the Maple Ridge Trail.
See the York Cabin, a replica of the cabin where Alvin C. York grew up.
If you make it to Alvin York Park, just up the road towards Dale Hallow is Forbus General Store. Stop in for some country cooking or homemade fudge!
Historic Rugby is a preserved 19th-century village located in Rugby, Tennessee.
The village is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can learn about its history and architecture.
There are a number of historic buildings to explore, including the Tabernacle, the Post Office, and the Schoolhouse.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities at Historic Rugby, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. There are also several restaurants and shops in the village.
Historic Rugby is open to the public year-round. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.
Cumberland Falls is a 69-foot-tall waterfall located in Kentucky. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state, and it is known for its beauty and its unique features. It is located about 1.5 hours from the cabin.
Hiking: Lace up your boots and hit the trails! With hundreds of miles to explore, there’s something for everyone. I’ll point you to hidden waterfalls, breathtaking overlooks, and challenging treks that reward you with panoramic views. 🥾💦
Finn’s Favorites: Honey Creek Loop, Yahoo Falls (The Video), Twin Arches Trail, Hazard Cave.
Twin Arches Short Loop is a 1.1 mile hike. This is a shorter route to look at the Twin Arches. Stairs and ladders are along the path to access the bottom.
The Twin Arches Loop Trail is a 4.9-mile-long moderate hike that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. The trail starts at the Twin Arches Trailhead and winds its way through a mix of hardwood forests, rock formations, and open meadows. You will also pass Charit Lodge.
This short, easy hike in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area offers a glimpse of two stunning natural landmarks: a 60-foot waterfall and a majestic rock arch. The 1.5-mile (one-way) trail can be completed in about an hour and is a great option for hikers of all levels.
Key Features
Hazard Cave and Natural Bridge Trail are two easy hikes in Pickett State Park. The cave is a wonder to see!
An amazing gem of the Cumberland Plateau and Fentress County, this trail is only about a mile long with a beautiful waterfall, rockhouse, and hemlocks that are hundreds of years old. If you are a last of the mohicans fan you will love this hike! And it has a great little swimming hole at the bottom.
This short hike is a good place for children and has a beautiful view of Crystal Falls. The trail is 2 miles round trip and is easy to hike. It is also a great place to go for a solo hike. The trail is well-maintained and there are usually a few other hikers to come across. This is a beautiful park and a great place to spend a day.
Enjoy a pleasant outing on this easy 1.6-mile loop trail located in Pickett State Park. It’s a popular spot for birding, hiking, and running, typically taking about 39 minutes to complete. While it’s a well-used trail, you can still find moments of peace and quiet, especially if you go during off-peak hours. This trail is best enjoyed from February through November. Leashed dogs are welcome.
This is an extremely beautiful hike, but it is an advanced hike. The trail map states it is only 4.2 miles, but it is longer. We hiked it with three small children and it took 7 hours 🙂 It is gorgeous and worth it!!
All Trails Guide
Trail Map
State Details
There is SO much exploring to do. Here is a list to additional day hikes.
Yahoo Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Kentucky. It is 113 feet tall and is surrounded by lush greenery. The falls are easily accessible via a short, well-maintained trail. There is also a parking lot and restrooms nearby. Yahoo Falls is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and photography.
Water Activities: Dive into the Big South Fork River! Kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting offer thrilling ways to experience the park’s waterways. Or, find a secluded swimming hole and cool off on a hot day. 🛶💦
Finn’s Pro Tip: The sand at the river is more fine the the sand in Florida.
A fantastic swimming hole with a sand beach. Enjoy tubing and playing in the river. Located 10 minutes from the cabins,
Also, hiking trailheads for Angel Falls Overlook Trail and O&W Railroad Loop Trail.
Sunset Marina is about an hour’s drive and a great place to rent boats on Dale Hollow Lake. The drive through Pall Mall is beautiful. Make sure to stop at Forbus General Store for some old-fashioned candy or fudge.
If you want to enjoy Dale Hallow without renting a boat this is a great spot! There are picnic tables, a little beach area, and even a boat launch. It is a good place to swim with kids. (It does not have a boundary area so floats/life jackets are recommended).
If you are exploring Dale Hallow Lake:
If you want to explore Big South Fork in Kentucky:
Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s diverse wildlife! You might spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, black bears, and even bald eagles soaring overhead. 🦌🦅
Finn’s Advice: Bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your wildlife encounters.
Jamestown offers more than just outdoor adventures. Explore the charming downtown, where you’ll find unique shops, local crafts, and friendly faces. Indulge in a local cup of joe at Campfire Coffee, a cozy spot with delicious brews and a warm atmosphere. ☕🔥 or eat an some delicious BBQ at Billy Bob’s BBQ(Off of 297 & 154).
Finn’s Pro Tip: Stroll through the Jamestown City Park and enjoy a small bite at Native Provisions. 🌳🧺
Caving: Venture into the depths of the earth! The Big South Fork boasts numerous caves, each with its own unique formations and hidden wonders. 🔦🦇
Finn’s Must-See: Explore the majestic Cumberland Caverns, known for its breathtaking formations and underground concerts.
Experience the beauty of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area with Finns BNB. We manage a collection of unique cabins and stays, offering unforgettable adventures in the heart of nature.
