Kentucky is a beautiful state where you can experience nearly every type of landscape, from underground caverns to towering mountains. Many don’t think of Kentucky as a mountain state, but we do, in fact, have several peaks that offer incredible views and plenty of outdoor adventure. Of course, each state in our country has a tallest point, and Kentucky is no exception. The highest point in Kentucky can be found in the town of Lynch, on Black Mountain. This mountain has seen a bit of everything over the years, but we’re pretty sure that after seeing these photos, you’ll fall in love with the natural beauty of the highest point in Kentucky.

The highest point can be found atop Black Mountain, near the town of Lynch along the Virginia border.
Photo Courtesy of Manns Bushcraft/@j.manns
In an area mostly known for its coal mining, Black Mountain has had quite the support over the years to maintain its natural beauty. As you head up the winding road to the summit, there is evidence of mining everywhere, but the views from the top are quite spectacular.
To reach this point, which sits at 4,145 feet above sea level, there are a few things you should know.
Photo Courtesy of Rachel Tenney/ @citizensmalls
First off, the land is private property and you have to sign a waiver to visit. You can find the waiver here. Print it, fill it out, and mail it to the address given. Keep a copy of it on you when you go.
To find the summit, you'll first need to get to Route 160 between Lynch, KY and Appalachia, VA.
Wikimedia/Skye Marthaler
Head up the mountain on this road, and when you reach the crest, there is a dirt road heading southwest that is right between the Kentucky and Virginia state signs. You can then drive down this dirt and gravel road to the area shown above. This may not look like much from this perspective, but the views you're about to experience are definitely worthy of a visit.

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The sweeping mountain views are breathtaking from atop Black Mountain.
Flickr/Ilovemountain.org, Matt Wasson
On a clear day, the Great Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee and North Carolina border are clearly visible.
Photo Courtesy of Ben Childers Photography
While there are other mountain views in Kentucky, this particular sight is quite unique and definitely picturesque.
While there aren't hiking trails in the immediate area, there are other activities and adventures to be had if you'd like to stay on the mountain.
Facebook/Black Mountain Off-Road Adventure Area
Back Mountain Offroad Adventure Area has 7,000 acres on the mountain in Harlan County and can show you the natural beauty of this area.
Facebook/Black Mountain Off-Road Adventure Area
They offer an exhilarating zipline course through the forest and you can bring your own off-road vehicle and take to their trails. If you'd like more information on all they offer at the official Back Mountain Offroad Adventure Area website.

And if you’d like an aerial view of the mountain, check out this incredible video by Ben Childers Photography (you can view more of his work here)!

Black Mountain is a lesser-known natural wonder in our state with sweeping views and quite a bit of history. Did you know that this beautiful mountain was the highest point in Kentucky? Have you been there? Let us know in the comments below!

And if the mountains are calling your name, check out these Kentucky mountains that all make for wonderful day trips in the Bluegrass State.

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More to Explore

Highest Point in Kentucky

Sarah M. | August 18, 2022

What are some other beautiful overlooks in Kentucky?

Kentucky might be world-famous for its underground caves, but there are some truly amazing, lofty overlooks in the Bluegrass State offering million dollar views for intrepid explorers! If you want to reenact a key moment in Kentucky history, head to this overlook, where you can literally stand in the very same place Daniel Boone did when he first set eyes upon the Bluegrass. Known as Pilot Knob, legend has it Daniel Boone saw the Bluegrass region of Kentucky from this overlook for the very first time in 1796 -- and on the Pilot Knob Trail, you can experience this resplendent scene, too.

Another epic overlook in the Bluegrass State that might rival the highest point in Kentucky is found via the Chained Rock Trail. Tucked away in the appropriately named community of Pineville is a dreamy mountain landscape. Pine Mountain was Kentucky's first state park, established back in 1924. Ever since, visitors have found themselves charmed by its beauty and awe-inspiring features. The mile-long Chained Rock Trail is the perfect anytime excursion, providing near-perfect panoramas of the trees and landscapes of Kentucky.

Finally, we'd be remiss not to mention the myriad overlooks at Red River Gorge. Rock formations, Grand Canyons, waterfalls, rivers... this place has it all, and there are numerous scenic overlooks wherein one can take in the lovely landscape of Kentucky.

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Black Mountain, Kentucky 40843, USA