Here’s What Awaits You at the Highest Point in Kentucky

I love the mountains, and I'm fortunate that my two favorite states have an ample supply. I've visited New Mexico more than any other state, outside of the one I'm in, and its mountains are the big kind. With the western half of the state predominantly made up, geologically, of the southern Rocky Mountains, that's not a surprise.

My other favorite state, the one I'm in, has a much greener collection of peaks, but they require a drive. The Appalachian Mountains are stunningly beautiful, and Kentucky's highest point is among them. Rising above Lynch, Kentucky, in Harlan County near the Virginia border, is Black Mountain at 4,145 feet above sea level. Charge your phone (you'll take a lot of pictures), and let's take a look.

Atop Black Mountain

Getting to the top of Black Mountain isn't as difficult as you might think. Kentucky Highway 160 will get you most of the way, and then it's a narrow road most often used by hikers. In fact, most visitors park by the "Welcome to Virginia" sign and hike the rest of the way.

And I'm certain those hikers have seen the old (off-limits) fire tower along the way, just like you will if you make the journey. Once you get to the top, you'll see the "Golf Ball." I can appreciate this nickname of the FAA radar tower, which is also off-limits to civilians. That's because the water tower in Owensboro at Frederica Street and the bypass used to be nicknamed "the golf tee." By the way, these guys have the right idea.

The View From Black Mountain

A couple of years ago, I reached out to ace videographer Ben Childers, who has a YouTube channel that is must-see streaming. I've used his work in stories, but more often than that, I've just enjoyed all the pictorial tales his drone shows us. In some cases, as with Black Mountain, he features multiple clips of the same landscape, but from different seasons. Check out this breathtaking Black Mountain winterscape.

Enjoy your trip. Wear comfortable shoes.