One of the things that we hear most is the phrase “There is nothing to do in Harlan,” and we are here to debunk that once and for all. Here is our list of 15 things, in no particular order, that you can go do, because there is always SOMETHING to do in Harlan County.
- Feeling adventurous? Visit the Black Mountain Off Road Adventure Area for a thrilling day of ATV fun!
- Check out the Black Mountain Thunder Zip Line. It is the tallest, longest, fastest zipline in Kentucky, and it is right here in Harlan County.
- Grab a fun drink or read one of the many one of a kind Appalachian books at Moonbow Tipple.
- Grab your iron, your putter, and some Harlan County golf balls and head to Sleepy Hallow, Harlan Country Club, or Lynch Country Club golf some holes.
- Go to Kingdom Come State Park and reconnect with nature at one of the many overlooks, paddle boats, or the mini golf course.
- Hike one of the many beautiful and serene trails at Camp Blanton.
- Have fun beach day by taking a dip in the water at Martins Fork Lake, or soaking in some Harlan County sun!
- Hit up Cranks Creek Lake, Highsplint Lake, or Martins Fork Lake for some good ole fishing fun.
- Kentucky is famous for our horses. English Creek Stables, Hensley Settlement, and Little Shepherd trail are just a few of the many places that are perfect for seeing horses and going horseback riding in Harlan.
- Head over to Benham to check out the Kentucky Coal Museum to learn a bit more about the history of Harlan County.
- Up for a tour? Check out Portal 31 which allows you to go on your very own underground coal mine tour.
- Want to step back into Harlan County history? Go check out Pine Mountain Settlement School. It is the home of cultural & environmental education, hosted retreats, a preserved historical campus, maintained collections & archives, and an operating farm.
- Commemorate your time here in Harlan County with a beautiful picture. Go to one of the many photo ops in Harlan such as the opossum mural, Umbrella Alley, or the rocking chairs outside the Harlan Center, just to name a few
- Be sure to stop by the Dragon Slayer Hwy 160 Visitor Center at 7 East Main St. in Lynch, KY. A 20 mile destination ride with more than 226 significant curves, Motorcycles, cars, and other motorsport vehicles are welcome to drive the Dragon Slayer.
- Go to the Harlan Center and ask the helpful staff for more information on what to do. Whilst reading the plethora of brochures, you can sit on the rocking chairs outside and relax while you decide what your next adventure should be!


