Barthell - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Blue Heron, located in McCreary County, Kentucky, is a historic coal mining community that now stands as a preserved ghost town within the boundaries of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Founded in the early 20th century, Blue Heron thrived as a coal mining town, with its residents primarily employed by the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company.

The McCreary County Museum, located in Whitley City, Kentucky, serves as a repository of the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Established to preserve and celebrate the unique stories and traditions of McCreary County, the museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through the area's past.

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway, located in Stearns, Kentucky, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and history of the Appalachian region aboard a historic train. Operating on a section of track that was once part of the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company's railroad network, the scenic railway provides passengers with a journey through the stunning landscapes of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

Yahoo Falls, located within the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in Kentucky, is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, cascading approximately 113 feet over a rock cliff into a serene pool below. This stunning natural wonder is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking to experience the beauty of Kentucky's wilderness.

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, located in southeastern Kentucky and northeastern Tennessee, is a sprawling wilderness area renowned for its rugged beauty, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Established in 1974, the park encompasses approximately 125,000 acres of protected land along the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River, offering visitors a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Cumberland Falls, located in southeastern Kentucky, is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the state. It is renowned for its majestic waterfall, often referred to as the "Niagara of the South." Fed by the Cumberland River, the falls cascade over a 68-foot curtain of water, creating a breathtaking display of power and beauty.