This national treasure is located in adjoining Wolfe County and is part of the Daniel Boone National Forest.  The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway winds through 45 miles of deeply shaded forest, more than 80 natural sandstone  arches and awesome cliffs.  Follow Ky. 15 north from Jackson, Ky. through Campton, Ky. to the Mountain Parkway. .  Follow the signs to the Red River Gorge.  People come from all over the country to rock climb, hike and camp in the Gorge.  Its great for motorcyclists too!  This absolutely breathtaking area is an easy 30 minute ride from Jackson.

 

 

This local festival takes place every Labor Day Weekend and features concerts, craft vendors and fun for all ages.

 

 

This city park of Jackson is located behind Mc Donald's restaurant on Ky. 15 North in Jackson.  The park is a great place to people watch and unwind in the evening.  The park offers a walking/running track, sports and picnic facilities.  If you would like a change of pace from riding, you can rent a canoe at the park, put in on the North Fork of the Kentucky River at the park and paddle several miles down the river at your own pace.  Park personel will pick you up at the end of the ride and return you to your bikes.  All for a reasonable fee!  You may e-mail the park director at douthittpark@setel.com.

 

 

Breathitt County has the largest elk herd east of the Mississippi.  A beautiful viewing area has been built on Ky. 1098.  Take Ky. 15 South out of Jackson and travel about 3 miles to Ky. 1098.  Turn left onto Ky. 1098 and travel 15 miles to the Elk Viewing Station.  The area around the station is paved as is the first 11 miles of 1098.  The last four miles to the station are a wide, unpaved road.  It can be traveled by bikes, but requires a slow speed.  There are herds of elk and open range horses in this area in addition to the other local wild life, so ride carefully!

 

 

This tiny island located in the Natural Bridge State Park about 35 minutes west of Jackson on the Bert Combs Mountain Parkway is the place to experience tradional mountain square dancing every Saturday night.  Follow Ky. 15 North out of Jackson, through Campton, Ky. to the Mountain Parkway. ( Ky.15 dead-ends into the Parkway).  Follow the Parkway west to the Slade Exit.  Turn left at the bottom of the exit and follow the signs about 5 miles to the Park and Hoedown Island.  Dinner is available in the park lodge or at various other local eateries.  The dancing and music are total fun and you can participate if you like!

 

 

Every Tuesday night at the Watts Volunteer Fire Department, located on Ky. 15 South, about 12 miles from Jackson, local bluegrass  musicians and singers gather to practice their skills and enjoy good company.  Occasionally you might  find a nationally known bluegrass act at this humble venue!